Security Specialist FT (68772)

Volunteers of America Chesapeake & Carolinas empowers self-reliance and inspires hope. As a church without walls, we provide personalized housing, ministry, health, and human services that benefit vulnerable individuals, their families, and the community. Founded in 1896, we are one of the nation’s largest and most comprehensive human services organizations, serving thousands each year through a team of over 850 employees and thousands of volunteers across Virginia, Maryland, the District of Columbia, and the Carolinas.

About the role

The Security Specialist reports to the Shift Security Supervisor and is responsible for monitoring resident activities and ensuring compliance with Federal Bureau of Prisons (FBOP) program rules and conditions. This role ensures the safe custody and accountability of residents while maintaining the facility’s appearance, cleanliness, and security. Mandatory overtime may be required during critical staff shortages or emergencies.

Responsibilities

• Monitor operations of the facility by supervising resident activities, identifying unauthorized locations, and communicating with resident service staff and program management for corrective actions.
• Conduct regular and periodic resident counts, facility/perimeter rounds, and inspections of rooms, offices, and service areas.
• Maintain resident sign-in/out logs and update departures/returns in the electronic case management database; complete all logbooks, forms, and records accurately.
• Maintain facility cleanliness by supervising, assigning, or monitoring resident cleaning activities to ensure a clean and orderly environment.
• Monitor resident behavior for compliance with VOAC policies, FBOP regulations, and the Federal Bureau of Prison Prohibit Act; report abnormal behavior and complete disciplinary reports as required.
• Document significant events during shifts in the program logbook and electronic case management database.
• Maintain appropriate communications and interactions with residents in accordance with program requirements and agency behavioral standards.
• Ensure residents receive meals when absent during scheduled meal times; dispense medication according to operational procedures.
• Collect urine specimens and administer breathalyzer tests to monitor resident substance abuse.
• Provide support to residents as needed and foster a healthy, clean perspective.
• Monitor all facility entrances and control contraband through observation, searches, and property inspections.
• Inventory and secure personal possessions of newly arriving, absconded, or terminated residents.
• Monitor facility equipment, report malfunctions or needed repairs, and document hazards or violations.
• Take appropriate actions in emergencies or life-threatening situations according to policy and procedure.
• Complete resident intake procedures and brief incoming shift staff on resident activities via logbook and electronic case management database.
• Perform duties outlined in the Programs Operations Manual.
• Attend staff meetings and VOAC work-related functions.
• Participate in pre-service and in-service training for staff as directed.
• Complete 40 hours of annual training as mandated by VOAC, FBOP, and ACA; new candidates must complete 120 hours within the first year of employment.
• Maintain working knowledge of VOAC policies, procedures, operational protocols, and contractual obligations established by FBOP and ACA standards.
• Represent the program professionally to the community and general public.

Qualifications

• Minimum of a High School Diploma/GED with 2–5 years of experience in human services, security, corrections, or military (highly desired). Two years of college or additional education may substitute for experience.
• Strong organizational, problem-solving, and judgment skills.
• Experience with report writing, behavior assessment, behavior management, and knowledge of health and safety regulations in a community residential center.
• Ability to maintain staff schedules for a 24/7/365 operation; flexibility to work varied shifts, including weekends, holidays, and mandatory overtime as needed.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills; ability to develop effective working relationships with residents and motivate others.
• Ability to multitask and thrive in a non-traditional work environment; self-motivated with the ability to work independently.
• High level of compassion and respect for persons with special needs.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, and other systems (e.g., electronic time punches, electronic medical records).
• Bilingual skills in any language are a plus.
• Must pass a Federal Bureau of Prisons background check before a conditional offer is made.

Skills

• Physical ability to stand, stoop, bend, reach, pull, push, lift, grasp, climb, talk, see, hear, and operate office equipment.
• Ability to lift and move objects up to 30 pounds, such as mail, supplies, files, and equipment.
• Capability to remain seated or walk for extended periods.
• Ability to withstand exposure to cold and heat.
• Occasional lifting, carrying, pushing, pulling, or moving objects, including the human body.

Benefits

• Medical Insurance
• Dental Insurance
• Workers’ Compensation
• Voluntary Insurances (Life, etc.)
• Employee Assistance Program
• No-cost merit increases (when financially feasible)
• Paid Time Off
• Floating Holidays
• Regular Holidays
• Overtime opportunities
• Sick Time
• Tuition Reimbursement
• Professional Development
• Career Advancement
• Flexible Schedules

A bona fide occupational exception may apply to this position based on sex/gender to ensure at least one female and one male are on duty during each shift.