Weapons Detection Specialist

Key Functions and Expected Performance:

Screening Individuals:

• Responsible for monitoring individuals as they pass through the weapon detector ensuring that each person is scanned thoroughly.

• Ensure compliance with established procedures and protocols.

• Assist visitors who may require assistance or guidance as they pass through the weapon detector. This could include helping them remove items from their person or explaining the process.

Identifying Alarms:

• Actively monitor the weapon detector for alarm triggers including the presence of weapon objects on individuals passing through.

• When the weapon detector detects a weapon identify whether the alarm is triggered by harmless items like keys or coins or if it indicates a potential threat.

• Conduct secondary screenings on individuals who trigger alarms utilizing handheld weapon detectors or physical pat-downs to locate and identify the source of the alarm.

Security & Safety Protocols:

• Adhere to established security protocols and procedures while operating the weapon detector checkpoint to ensure the safety and security of the premises.

• Respond to non-police emergency calls to include but not be limited to the following: alarms (fire general security) hazardous material spills and leaks and pedestrian or vehicular traffic control.

• Use trained tactics to assist in controlling de-escalating or restraining combative and/or violent patients as requested by medical personnel.

• Provide backup and assistance for other officers within guidelines specified in department policy and procedures.

• Respond to general security or safety hazard calls for service as directed.

• Maintain familiarity with personal protective equipment including protective suits and N-95 respirators.

Communication and Customer Service:

• Effectively communicate with VUPS and VUMC personnel to ensure a coordinated effort in maintaining security and responding to any potential threats detected by the weapon detector.

• Provide courteous and professional customer service to individuals passing through the security checkpoint addressing any concerns or inquiries with patience and respect while maintaining security measures.

• Communicate VUMC policies and enforcement procedures to visitors staff and guests to ensure the safety of the community.

• Provide walking escorts as assigned.

• Provide security for events including athletic events concerts speaking engagements visiting dignitaries commencement and other events as assigned.

• Provide internal and external disaster assistance according to Departmental University and Medical Center policies and procedures.

Documentation and Reporting:

• Document any incidents alarms or unusual occurrences that happen during the shift and report them to the shift Supervisor.

• Investigate and write reports for non-criminal activities as assigned.

Operating and monitoring equipment:

• Responsible for the setup tear down maintenance and storage of the weapon detector ensuring it is kept in good working condition and reporting any malfunctions or issues to the shift supervisor.

Supervisory Relationships:

This position does not have supervisory responsibility this position reports administratively and functionally to the assigned shift supervisor.

Education and Certifications:

• High school diploma or GED is required.

• Completion of VUPS training within 30 days of hire is required*. This includes:
  • De-escalation Pressure Point Control Tactics Asp Baton pepper spray or similar training
  • CPR and AED certification
  • Security officer training

*Note: this training is completed within the first 2 weeks of some cases if someone missed a few days of training they must have it completed within 30 days.

Experience and Skills:

• 12 months experience working in safety/security or law enforcement is required.
• Previous experience operating weapon detection equipment in a healthcare security setting is highly preferred.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to interact effectively with individuals from diverse backgrounds are required.
• Attention to detail and the ability to consistently follow safety protocols and procedures is required.
• Demonstrated ability to remain calm and composed under pressure and in potentially challenging situations is required.
• Demonstrated ability to problem-solve is required.
• Ability to utilize electronic systems and two-way radio is required.
• 18 years of age is required.

Physical Requirements:

Weapons Detection Specialist must be able to:

• Stand for extended periods.
• Walk climb and lift up to 25 pounds.
• Meet written departmental standards on appearance/grooming.
• Pass a thorough background investigation that demonstrates
  • Good moral character and
  • Pass background and drug testing
  • No prior criminal convictions that would prohibit the individual from meeting the standards set forth by the State of Tennessee to become certified under the Private Protective Services Act.
• Must obtain immunizations and medical tests as required to be able to work in patient care and high-risk areas.

Working Environment:

• Required to work varying shifts including nights weekends and holidays.

• Must be able to work in inclement weather and various weather extremes.

• May encounter hazardous materials infectious diseases blood-borne pathogens steam car battery acid loud noises smoke and fire.

• Must correctly use a TB Mask and other precautionary equipment.

• May encounter physical danger from violent patients suspects and others.