Lieutenant (Supervisor), Security

Lieutenant (Supervisor) Security
Location: Saint Louis Zoo Forest Park
Division: People & Culture
Department: Security
Reports To: Director of Security
Classification: Exempt
Position Type: Full-Time

Position Summary: The Saint Louis Zoos Security Department is responsible for performing security patrols (building/gate checks) transporting cash banks to designated locations responding to all emergencies enforcing Zoo rules and regulations protecting property from theft responding to accidents investigating and writing reports on accidents incidents suspicious activities and other security-related situations and provide additional as-needed assistance to visitors and employees. The Security Team is also responsible for staffing various on-grounds assignments as well as serving as a dispatching call center and camera observation center. The Security department provides a high level of service and serves as ambassadors to visitors while responding to potentially dangerous issues.

Responsibilities: Reporting directly to the Director of Security serve as one of the key leaders of the Saint Louis Zoos Security Department which is responsible for the overall safety protection and safeguarding of Zoo employees visitors and property. Assist the Director with the management of both the armed Security Rangers and Sergeants as well as the unarmed Public Safety Beats Dispatchers and Camera Observers. Help prepare execute and manage all security-related policies and procedures. Responsible for helping to develop and implement the overall security strategies related to keeping the Zoo safe. Help establish goals and objectives for the department.

Work with all internal Zoo departments to ensure their safety and understand what their departments security needs are. Plan complete and execute an operating budget researching expenditures and outlining what expenses would be needed to operate as a Security department in all Zoo facilities. May be responsible for departmental scheduling approval of time and payroll and other computer software-related tasks. Ensure the professional development and training of the Security team that conforms to industry best practices. Help the Director with the performance planning and day-to-day employment issues of the team. Serve as the Security Departments point-of-contact and person in charge in the absence of the Director. Serve as the liaison to local law enforcement and other security-related agencies to keep up-to-date on relevant security issues trends best practices etc.

Qualifications: Bachelors degree or equivalent required advanced degree preferred (some level of command college preferredFBINAA Command College Northwestern or PERF). Security law enforcement military firefighting or equivalent experience preferred. Minimum of 5 years prior upper level supervisory/management experience required.

The applicant will be asked to take a drug test and firearms training course provided by a Range Officer in the Security Department. The applicant must have valid drivers license. Ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing with employees volunteers and visitors. First Aid CPR/AED experience required. Must be able to successfully obtain an armed security license. Must be able to carry and qualify with a firearm demonstrate efficiency effectiveness and accuracy while carrying a handgun as well as qualify with a shotgun or rifle.

Must be able to implement a leadership style that embodies the Zoos values of Animals Always People Matter and Operational Excellence within the context of keeping the Zoo safe and secure. Must demonstrate the ability to be impartial and thorough when investigating various -escalation skills as well as crisis communication skill are also required. Prior experience managing budgets preferred. Proficiency in the use of basic computer programs such as Microsoft Word and Excel.

All successful candidates for this position will be required to undergo a criminal background check and a drug test. As this is a safety-sensitive role a negative drug test result is mandatory. The drug test screens for five substances including marijuana.

Physical Requirements: Able to work in all types of weather and unpredictable crisis situations. Moderate physical activity is required including working on and walking on Zoo grounds with the other Security Team members. Ability to defend yourself fellow employees and handle other potentially volatile situations. May be required to stand for long periods of time sit and walk the Zoo grounds.

Work Schedule: Must be able to work all shifts including weekends evenings and holidays.

Position will close: January 30 2026

About the Saint Louis Zoo: The world-renowned Saint Louis Zoo is dedicated to saving species and bringing people and wildlife together. The Saint Louis Zoo cares for approximately 12000 animals many of which are endangered and is dedicated to local and global conservation to save wildlife. Learn more at: Zoo is committed to the Three Keys (Animals Always People Matter and Operational Excellence) and Core Values (Community Creativity Openness Integrity and Life-Work Balance. Learn more at: St. Louis Mo: From Explore St. Louis: Urban explorer outdoor adventurer aficionado of family fun no matter your travel persona youll find plenty to do in St. Louis. The city is brimming with free world-class attractions and boasts an arts-and-culture scene thats second to none. Plus fans of fresh air will be surprised and delighted by our flourishing public parks miles of trails and exhilarating waterways. Sprinkle in a bit of our secret sauce the warmth and hospitality of the residents and youll discover that St. Louis dishes up undeniably epic travel experiences. Dont take our word for it though. Come and see for yourself. Learn more at Experience:

Manager