Security Officer

The Security Officer monitors security of the Institute campus in assigned areas, assists with opening and closing of the Institute at designated times, conducts foot patrols, notifies the Dispatcher and/or Shift Supervisor of unusual occurrences, suspicious circumstances or persons, malfunctioning equipment or other safety hazards, company policy violations, and responds to and investigates incidents and emergencies as dispatched or observed.

Who We Are

The Salk Institute is an internationally renowned research institution that values all members of our scientific community. We seek bold and interactive leaders passionate about exploring new frontiers in science. Our collaborative community embraces perspectives across discipline, professional acumen, and unique life experiences, fostering innovation, and a sense of belonging. Together, we strive to improve the wellbeing of humanity through groundbreaking research.

Founded by Jonas Salk, developer of the first safe and effective polio vaccine, the Institute is an independent, nonprofit research organization and architectural landmark: small by choice, intimate by nature, and fearless in the face of any challenge. Salk's vibrant community has many talented individuals from varied backgrounds, each playing a crucial role in driving our mission forward. From visionary leaders to dedicated administrators and brilliant faculty members, the Institute is united by a shared passion for scientific exploration and innovation. 

What Your Key Responsibilities Will Be

• Responds to and investigates emergencies and incidents as observed and/or as directed by Dispatch.
• Patrols the facility grounds on foot or in an assigned area, visually and audibly assessing and reporting via radio on the state of security for the overall facility, fire hazards, leaks, lighting issues, and equipment failures to be electronically logged.
• Provides unlocks, escorts, employee verification, and authorizes/denies access as appropriate.
• Warns violators of rule infractions, civil, criminal, and policy or procedural violations, such as badging protocol, visitor registration, parking operations, or trespassing.
• Monitors parking operations, including permits, reservations, fire lanes, and handicapped stalls for compliance; sets up, moves, and removes cones and traffic signage as directed.
• As directed, assumes various other post duties to provide breaks/meal periods for colleagues, including Security Dispatch.
• As assigned, provides security presence at Institute events, monitors access to registered events that take place after hours or when the facility is closed.
• Greets faculty, staff, and visitors, provides directions and verbal information, including exceptional customer service with public-facing tours.
• Notifies the appropriate Institute contact person(s) when necessary, by phone and/or email, including inter-departmentally with multiple partner organizations.
• Performs other related duties as assigned by management.

What we Require

• Minimum 1 year as a team lead/supervisor in security/law enforcement or related field preferred.
• Security experience in a biotech, academic institute, or research institute preferred.
• Certificates, licenses, and registrations preferred: Valid California Bureau of Security and Investigative Services guard card; CPR/FA/AED Certification.
• Computer skills required: Familiarity with CCTV and card access software; Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook).
• Must be able to work a flexible schedule as needed based on workload and deadlines.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality of security related information.
• Post-offer physical required, including:
  • Visual acuity: 20/40 with both eyes together, with or without corrective lenses. The ability to distinguish red, green, and yellow colors is required. The use of corrective eyeglasses or contact lenses shall not interfere with an individual’s ability to effectively perform assigned security job duties during normal or emergency operations.
  • Hearing: Individuals shall have no hearing loss in the better ear greater than 30 decibels average at 500 Hz, 1,000 Hz, and 2,000 Hz with no level greater than 40 decibels at any one frequency. A hearing aid is acceptable provided suitable testing procedures demonstrate auditory acuity equivalent to the above stated requirement. The use of a hear