Job Title:       Security Officer Aid
Location:        Washington Adventist University – Main Lobby
Department:  Campus Security
Reports To:   Campus Security Director
FLSA Status: Non-Exempt
Hourly Rate: $17.15/hr.

OVERVIEW OF THE UNIVERSITY
Washington Adventist University (WAU) is a Christ-centered institution of higher education that supports a culture of excellence where all feel valued.  Nestled in a desirable residential community in Takoma Park, Maryland, WAU offers its faculty and staff an environment where professional expertise is valued and lasting connections between co-workers are formed as we work together to ensure the success of our students.  Regardless of title, every employee supports WAU’s vision of producing graduates who bring moral leadership and competence to their communities.

SUMMARY
Washington Adventist University is seeking a friendly and professional Security Officer Aid to serve as the first point of contact for staff, students, and guests at the university’s mail lobby. This position will combine exceptional customer service with security awareness, providing a welcoming, Disney-world-like experience while ensuring the safety and security of the campus community. The ideal candidate will be a people-oriented individual with strong communication skills and a keen eye for safety best practices in a higher education environment.

ESSENTIAL RESPOSIBILITIES

• Greeting & Customer Service:
  • Provide a warm, friendly, and professional greeting to all visitors, staff, and students entering the mail lobby.
  • Assist guests with directions, inquiries, and provide information about the campus in a courteous manner, ensuring an exceptional experience akin to a Disney World standard of hospitality.
• Security and Safety Protocols:
  • Monitor and enforce security policies related to campus safety and access control.
  • Ensure that all visitors and guests follow the university’s safety protocols and reminding students to have their ID badge visible. 
  • Maintain a visible and approachable presence in the lobby to discourage any suspicious or unauthorized activities.
• Providing Information on Security Practices:
  • Educate staff and guests about university security practices, emergency procedures, and safety measures in a friendly and approachable manner.
  • Stay informed of any changes or updates in university security policies to effectively communicate with the campus community.
• Monitoring & Reporting:
  • Keep an eye on the overall security environment within the mail lobby and surrounding areas.
  • Report any suspicious activity, safety hazards, or maintenance issues to the appropriate authorities or campus security officers.
• General Support:
  • Assist with other administrative or security-related duties as needed to support the campus security team.    
  • Act as a liaison between students, faculty, and staff to promote a safe and welcoming campus environment.

QUALIFICATIONS

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Be enrolled as a full-time student at Washington Adventist University
• Previous customer service or security experience preferred but not required.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills with the ability to interact effectively with diverse groups of people.
• A friendly, approachable demeanor and the ability to maintain a calm, professional presence under pressure.
• A commitment to providing top-tier customer service and supporting the security team in fostering a safe campus environment.
• Ability to follow instructions and adhere to security protocols and procedures.
• Basic knowledge of safety and security practices in a university or public setting is a plus.