Position Overview
A security specialist’s work can be defined on different planes – he or she is responsible for a huge array of duties, including ensuring that both premises, and people within are secured. He or she performs initial security checks at the beginning of each day, ensuring that all systems are in check, and that any issues are handled before they convert into a crises situation.
Education & Training
Working as a security specialist requires an individual to possess a high school diploma or a GED at the very minimum. Most of the training is provided on the job, but if you have had some experience in the area in a previous position, you may be given high consideration.
Skills & Abilities
You will need to be physically dexterous, and possess the ability to handle tricky situations when they arise. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills are an absolute must if you want to work as a security specialist, as you will be in constant contact with people from different walks of life.
You should be friendly with technology – using systems such as CCTV cameras and surveillance equipment will be all in a day’s work for you. The ability to take initiative and perform several tasks at the same time is also a requirement of working at this position.
Here is a list of job duties particular to the position of a security specialist:
Security Specialist Duties and Responsibilities
• Perform detailed inspections of all assigned areas within the premises to ensure that all security measures are in check.
• Perform facility security checks and risk assessments, and conduct periodic revisits for improved security.
• Ascertain that all assessments are properly documented, placing special emphasis on accuracy and integrity of information.
• Evaluate, determine and present strategic site needs, and develop comprehensive system installation plans.
• Respond to technical issues within the system to ensure that all systems are up and running on a continuous basis.
• Assist in the installation of CCTV and other surveillance equipment, and monitor equipment to determine if there are any possible threats to the facility, or to the people within.
• Monitor and control activities of employees and visitors, at assigned locations within a building.
• Enforce conduct and discipline codes to promote a drug-free environment.
• Keep a lookout for disturbances, fights, unauthorized visitors, and criminal activities, and perform measures to deter them.
• Monitor visitors’ access during work hours, and ensure that only authorized individuals enter and exit from specified entrances / exits.
• Create and document incident reports, and provide security systems feedback to supervisors on a regular basis.