School Resource Officer

School Resource Officer
Pay Grade: 13
Supervisor: Director of Safety & Security
Days/Months: 230/12
Department: Safety & Security
Classification: Non-Exempt

PRIMARY PURPOSE:
The School Safety & Security Officer is responsible for maintaining a safe and secure environment for students, staff, and visitors within the school system. This role places a special emphasis on providing mentorship, counseling, and implementing effective behavioral interventions to support the overall well-being and growth of students. The School Safety & Security Officer collaborates with school administrators, teachers, and other stakeholders to ensure a positive learning environment. Additionally, this position actively promotes student development, emotional support, and positive behavior through proactive engagement and guidance.

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  ESSENTIAL DUTIES:
  
• Monitor and enforce safety protocols and procedures to ensure the security of the school premises and its occupants.
  
• Patrol the school premises regularly to deter and detect potential safety risks or unauthorized individuals.
  
• Provide mentorship and guidance to students, fostering positive relationships and supporting their social and emotional development.
  
• Implement behavior intervention strategies to address student challenges and promote a positive and respectful school culture.
  
• Collaborate with teachers and administrators to identify and address students' behavioral issues, providing support and counseling as needed.
  
• Serve as a resource for staff regarding student behavior management and intervention techniques.
  
• Conduct investigations and document incidents related to safety, security, and student behavior.
  
• Perform law enforcement duties as needed to protect the safety and security of individuals within the school premises.
  
• Monitor and operate security systems, including surveillance cameras, access control systems, and alarm systems.
  
• Respond promptly and effectively to safety incidents, emergencies, and crisis situations, following established protocols.
  
• Conduct regular safety inspections to identify potential hazards and ensure compliance with safety regulations.
  
• Assist in planning, assessing, and implementing safety drills and emergency preparedness exercises.
  
• Assist in the review of safety policies, procedures, and emergency response plans.
  
• Conduct training sessions for students, staff, and parents on safety protocols, emergency preparedness, and security awareness.
  
• Collaborate with community organizations, social services, and law enforcement agencies to provide comprehensive support for students.
  
• Build positive relationships with students, parents, and staff, promoting a culture of trust, respect, and cooperation.
  
• Stay informed about best practices and advancements in school safety, counseling, and behavioral interventions.
  
• Adhere to ethical standards and maintain confidentiality when dealing with sensitive student information.
  
• Required to have prompt, regular attendance.
  
• Available on an on-call basis.
  
• Performs other assigned duties as required.

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  MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
  
• High school diploma or equivalent is required. A college degree in education, counseling, or a related field is preferred.
  
• Possession of a valid Georgia Peace Officer Standards and Training (POST) certification in good standing; or the ability to obtain within one year of employment. (A current GA POST professional profile must be submitted as part of the application process with PBLE number attached).
  
• Three years of experience in school safety, law enforcement, juvenile justice, and/or municipal or private safety and security.
  
• Previous experience working with students in a school or youth-oriented setting is desirable.
  
• Valid driver's license; Must submit a current 7-year Motor Vehicle Report (MVR) with the application packet.
  
• Successful completion of a comprehensive background check, including criminal history investigation, psychological evaluation, polygraph examination, physical assessment, and drug screening.

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  KNOWLEDGE, SKILL & ABILITIES:
  
• Strong understanding of student behavior management techniques and counseling principles.
  
• Knowledge of school safety protocols and emergency response procedures.
  
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to effectively engage with students, staff, and parents.
  
• Ability to establish rapport and build positive relationships with diverse student populations.
  
• Patience, empathy, and the ability to de-escalate situations and manage conflict.
  
• Strong observational skills and attention to detail to identify potential safety concerns.
  
• Physical fitness and stamina to perform patrols and respond to emergencies as necessary.
  
• Ability to work collaboratively in a team environment and follow instructions from supervisors.
  
• Maintain a professional and respectful demeanor in all interactions.
  
• Customer-focused with a results-driven mindset.

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  ESSENTIAL PHYSICAL ABILITIES:
  The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
  
• Stand, walk, and patrol school premises for extended periods.
  
• Respond quickly and effectively during emergency situations, including running, climbing stairs, and navigating obstacles.
  
• Lift and carry heavy objects or equipment, if necessary, during emergency response activities.
  
• Maintain physical stamina and mental alertness during potentially high-stress situations.
  
• Ability to visually monitor areas using surveillance cameras and other security equipment.
  
• Adequate hearing and speaking abilities to communicate clearly and effectively with staff, students, and emergency personnel.
  
• Possess a valid driver's license, as occasional travel may be required to attend meetings or training sessions