K-9 Handler, Armed Security Officer

At Memorial Hermann, we pursue a common goal of delivering high quality, efficient care while creating exceptional experiences for every member of our community. When we say every member of our community, that includes our employees. We know that when our employees feel cared for, heard and valued, they are inspired to create moments that exceed expectations, while prioritizing safety, compassion, personalization and efficiency. If you want to advance your career and contribute to our vision of creating healthier communities, now and for generations to come, we want you to be a part of our team.

Job Summary

Performs security service duties through professional and positive interaction with the public, patients, employees and administrators with a specially trained K-9. Position responsible for assisting with the protecting, securing, and promoting safety and security. Follows established procedural guidelines to provide a safe and secure environment. Enforces all hospital policies, Federal and State statues, and local ordinances within the context of legal limitations. Provides a welcoming and resourceful presence. Requires outstanding communication and problem-solving skills, exceptional knowledge of Memorial Hermann Health System’s mission and values as well as a passion for excellence. Displays a high energy, can-do attitude in a highly visible position requiring a professional presence. Typically reports to K-9 Program Coordinator.

Job Description

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Education:  High School Diploma or GED required; Associate’s or Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal Justice or related field preferred.

Licenses/Certifications: 

• Licensed as a Commissioned Security Officer by the Texas Department of Public Safety Private Security Bureau (must obtain within 90 days after hire).

• Possess a valid driver’s license upon hire (if from out of state, must obtain a Texas Driver’s license within 90 days after hire).

• Must meet and maintain all requirements of the Security Services Armed Program to carry a firearm while on duty.

• Must be certified in Heartsaver CPR or Heartcode BLS CPR by the American Heart Association.

• Must be certified in an approved de-escalation training (if not certified upon hire, must obtain certification within (6) six month after hire).

Experience / Knowledge / Skills:

• Age Requirement: Must be at least 21 years of age.

• Minimum of two (2) years of security, law enforcement, or military related experience required.

• Knowledge of Texas Penal Code, security reports and investigations, and The Joint Commission (TJC) standards.

• Must be able to understand the English language and communicate it effectively in both verbal and written form.

• Proficiency in the use of computers (Microsoft Word, Outlook, and PowerPoint) is required.

• Able to satisfactorily house and care for a K-9 24 hours per day/7 days per week as K-9s live with their assigned K-9 Handler and are part of every aspect of the officer’s home life.

• Provides training and care of the assigned K-9 as well as ensures that the K-9 is fed, sheltered, groomed, and exercised, and appropriately socialized. This includes appropriate vet care is provided including health checks and immunizations.

• Able to lift and carry a 90lb K-9.

• Flexibility to attend initial and regular maintenance training to maintain K-9 Handler certification and K-9 competence.

• Willing to remain with the K-9 Program for at least three years required.

• Have a willingness to care for and house the K-9 at the Handler’s residence required.

• A permanent residence with an outdoor area that conforms to departmental requirements in close proximity to the facilities to minimize response time.

• If other animals at home, willing to make accommodations in the event that animals do not get along.

• Must maintain constant state of physical readiness and perform a wide variety of tasks while wearing personal protective equipment.

• Must be able to work inside and outside with moderate exposure to sun, heat, cold, inclement weather, exposure to noise, freqeunt travel.

• K-9 Handler must be able to pass a certified K-9 academy once scheduled.

• Display a high degree of patience that will be needed in a repetitive format type of training.

• Ability to engage with the public / perform public speaking when necessary.

• Able to communicate and articulate clearly about role and purpose of K-9 Program.

• Be a team player with other Memorial Hermann Health System caregivers and Security staff.

• Be flexible and adaptable to a variety of situations, settings, and business needs.

• For internal applicants must have no sustained “Use of Force” complaints or other disciplinary concerns.

• Demonstrate the ability and willingness to spend off-duty hours caring for and grooming the K-9 daily, responding to callouts, training, and conducting approved public demonstrations.

• Understand that they are subject to callouts and must have a reasonable response time to their assigned facility.

• Be adaptable to scheduling changes with little notice.

PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTABILITIES

• Performs Security Officer duties as required, with K-9 partner, to maintain security in building, lots, and grounds: respond to all security and emergency situations as required; ensure the public peace is maintained in all areas of assignment; assist patients, visitors and staff by coordinating security assistance and by answering questions and providing directions.

• The K-9 Handler and K-9 will work solely as a team with the K-9 accompanying the Handler through the Handler’s work week. The Handler will not leave his/her K-9 at home and work his/her shift alone, unless the K-9 is ill or unless the Handler has obtained permission from the K-9 Program Coordinator.

• The K-9 Team’s primary duty, in addition to handling normal calls throughout its duty, will be as a back-up unit. It will perform such details as building checks, respond to building alarms, escorts, parking lots, and garage patrols.

• The K-9 Team’s primary duty, in addition to handling normal calls throughout its duty, will be as a back-up unit. It will perform such details as building checks, respond to building alarms, escorts, parking lots, and garage patrols.

• Operates and cares for assigned security equipment including the K-9 Partner. Monitors performance of and report failures in equipment assigned to campus.  Maintains knowledge of the location and operation of security systems, emergency systems and equipment assigned to campus.

• Provide response to calls where the presence of a K-9 Team is likely to aid in a favorable resolution.

• Use K-9 for explosive and firearms detection when necessary, including assistance to outside organizations/agencies.

• Complete understanding of hospital, building management and departmental policies, procedures, post orders and comply with their job requirements at all times.

• The K-9 unit has an expectation to respond within two (2) hours to situations when needed, if available.

• Participate in K-9 team public relation appearances and educational demonstrations.

• The K-9 Handler shall use the assigned K-9 in good faith and in a safe and responsible manner, consistent with policy and applicable law.

• Ensures safe care to patients, staff and visitors; adheres to all Memorial Hermann policies, procedures, and standards within budgetary specifications including time management, supply management, productivity and quality of service.

• Promotes individual professional growth and development by meeting requirements for mandatory/continuing education and skills competency; supports department-based goals which contribute to the success of the organization; serves as preceptor, mentor and resource to less experienced staff.

• Demonstrates commitment to caring for every member of our community by creating compassionate and personalized experiences. Models Memorial Hermann’s service standards of providing safe, caring, personalized and efficient experiences to patients and our workforce.

• Perform other duties as assigned.