K9 Officer

The Armed Security K9 Handler performs security service duties through professional and positive interaction with the public, patients, employees and administrators. Responds to a variety of calls, provides assistance in emergency and non-emergency situations. Investigates and documents safety hazards, incidents and criminal activities. Patrols designated areas to ensure the protection of the public, patients, employees and property of FMOL Health facilities. Accountable to the department’s chain of command for initiative, judgment and general competence exhibited in the performance of assignments, calls for service, and day to day general duties. Deters crime and aggressive behavior, engages in public relations activities, and performs searches for weapons and explosive devices; and provides basic K9 husbandry duties as assigned. Actively participates in outstanding customer service and accepts responsibility in maintaining relationships that are equally respectful to all.

• Proactively patrols assigned areas and performs all security related tasks, ensuring life safety standards are maintained, suspicious activity or persons. Investigates and/or reports hazards, unusual or suspicious circumstances to Security dispatcher(s) and keeps Supervisor apprised of unusual activities and events. Responds to events of varying degrees of vulnerability, including high vulnerability such as life-threatening events, natural disasters.
• Patrols assigned areas to provide security presence. Unlocks buildings/doors after checking identification and compliance with Hospital policies; properly utilizes and maintains all issued and operated equipment. Observes activity and traffic in assigned area to enforce Hospital rules/regulations, alerts visitors of infractions. Assists individuals on property needing directions or information. Escorts people/property to desired destination when safety of property or individuals are a concern.
• Participates in activities not directly related to Security operations as approved by Security Management. These may include assisting law enforcement agencies, media interviews, and special events.
• Maintains proficiency with all assigned equipment, including firearms.
• Acknowledges and responds appropriately to emergency, non-emergency situations and alarms calls as assigned. Uses good judgment to safely determine the alarm cause, takes appropriate action and / or provides the proper assistance and direction in both emergency and non-emergency situations. Administer initial first aid as appropriate and to the level of training attained.
• Learns applicable systems and responds to fire alarms at facilities during actual alarms and drills. Maintains appropriate communication with Supervisors, Security Officers and Dispatcher(s) to report crimes, incidents and safety related irregularities.
• Intercedes in disputes between individuals by using verbal de-escalation techniques and skills to diffuse potentially violent patient, employee, or visitor situations. Physically manages combative, violent persons without hesitation using techniques taught in the required annual aggression management training.
• Monitors vehicle and pedestrian traffic on or in FMOL Health properties. Interviews and investigates individuals involved in suspicious or illegal activities. Detains unauthorized individuals as defined by policy or state law and releases them to the proper authorities.
• Investigates and documents, through electronic format as required, to report safety hazards, incidents and criminal activities to Security Administration, law enforcement and other appropriate agencies as determined by FMOL Health, department policy, or state law. Conducts annual security assessments (as assigned) of individual FMOL Health properties to determine possible security risks.
• Maintains K9, handler training logs, and provides K9 husbandry and care while on and off duty.
• Must provide a secure safe environment for K9 while off duty. Housing area and enclosure must be pre-approved by the Vice President and CSO.

Experience: 2 years prior law enforcement or security experience.

Education: High School diploma or equivalent and have graduated from a K9 handler training program approved by the CSO and/or successfully pass the K9 training program selected by FMOL Health.

Licensure/Certification:

Must obtain certification as a (CHSO) Certified Healthcare Basic Security Officer by (IAHSS) International Association for Healthcare Security and Safety.

Valid driver’s license upon hire, if from out of state, can obtain a Louisiana Driver’s license.

Other Skills and Abilities:

• Ability to read accurately and comprehend, write clearly, and understand in a manner to effectively complete legal reports, narratives, and follow simple directions. Ability to read, interpret, and apply safety rules, radio codes, reports, memos, communications, policies, and other required written materials. Ability to communicate via email; and actively listen and communicate effectively through clear speech, and hearing
• Ability to safely operate vehicles, equipment, and communication devices and perform all aspects of the job safely without imposing risk to self and/or others
• Computer literacy with ability to use basic hospital/security applications and information management systems required
• Good critical thinking skills, and ability to set and quickly reset priorities
• Able to work and train in an environment with occurring periods of crisis and stress
• Ability to recognize faces
• Ability to maintain confidentiality in all matters pertaining to patients, visitors and/or employees
• Ability to work independently within a team-oriented environment; ability to work closely with medical and nursing staff to resolve patient-related problems
• Ability to identify recurring security operation issues, collaborate with leadership to problem solve and develop solutions, and work with the Security Management team on implementation of change
• Exceptional customer service skills and the ability to diplomatically handle stressful situations
• Ability to deescalate situations using non-lethal defensive tools and training
• Ability to train, work, and show compassion to K9’s
• Ability to lift and carry the weight of an average canine (100 lbs.) while navigating routine duties (fences, tables, stretchers, chairs, etc.)
• Basic computer skills including Windows, Word and Excel (Preferred)