Security Services Specialist

This is a highly responsible planning, coordinating and oversight position in the operational, safety and security areas of the Tampa Convention Center.

Under direction, an employee in this class ensures the proper security and safe functioning of third-party special events and facility security operations. Work is of more than average difficulty and requires the application of considerable initiative and independent judgement in performing planning, analysis, and oversight functions with other facility departments, outside clients and contractors. Responsible for quality assurance of building and event security by staff or contractors. To include security protocols that safeguard the building, surrounding property and personnel. Assist with Emergency Management programs and provide continuity for Safety and Emergency Management response teams. Must exhibit exemplary customer services ability and courtesy when resolving complaints or problems. Operations of a motor vehicle and performance in outdoor work environment are also required. Knowledge of FEMA and other federal emergency management agencies. Work is performed under the direction and supervisor of the Safety and Security Manager.    

Analyzes, and oversees the operational effectiveness, security, and safety for all client and contractor production use of the loading docks, exhibition halls, meeting rooms, front driveway and other production areas of the main facility and campus. 

Inspects work of contract event personnel to ensure that all facility operational, security, and safety policies and procedures are adhered to, and that work is performed in accordance with the safety and security department’s standards. 

Inspects and enforces security and safety practices for designated contractor personnel operating on the campus during special events.

Communicates and coordinates extensively with other City personnel to include local law enforcement, first responders, special event clients and third-party contractors regarding event activity, as well as on all other important issues concerning the operation of special events.

Develops specifications for projects to improve special event operations, reduce the cost of operating expenses, and increase efficiencies and improve overall security and safety standards. 

Conducts investigations of accidents and other security and safety incidents and reviews written reports prepared by security command personnel and other correspondence as directed.    

Assist with developing and implementing security and emergency management policies and procedures.

Support the implementation of emergency preparedness protocols throughout the organization as directed.

Conducts training of security and safety procedures, practices, and programs, to include annual exercises such as emergency evacuations, active shooter, shelter-in-place, fire alarm systems tests, and human trafficking. Identifies and resolves security and safety related problems/issues.

Assist as liaison with public law enforcement, first responders, and other agencies as it relates to security and safety response.

A proactive security specialist who is willing and able to perform physical duties on the job and has a quick response in times of crisis or emergencies.

Assist with conducting threat or vulnerability analysis to determine probable frequency of criticality, consequence, or severity of natural or man-made disasters or criminal activity affecting the Tampa Convention Center.

Extensive knowledge of: CCTV, access control, monitoring system, security practices, and security and safety reports.

Working knowledge of: the operation of a municipal convention center, including the methods, practices, procedures, equipment and materials used in special events; bag and weapon checks and the use of magnetometers; principles and practices of security management and event logistics; security procedures and responsibilities; occupational hazards and safety precautions and mitigation procedures as well as applicable codes and regulations, rules and regulation of city, county and state entities regarding operations related to all aspects of special event production. 

Ability to: coordinate and oversee the work of a large staff of technical and unskilled temporary contractor security labor forces in a manner that promotes the best interests of the facility; establish and maintain effective working relationships with employees, contractors and service providers, convention center clients, and the general public; communicate security and safety plans effectively both orally and in writing; maintain records and prepare reports; handle crisis situations; interpersonal skills with ability to deal with all levels of personnel and the general public in a professional and effective manner.

Graduation from an accredited college or university with a bachelor’s degree in Public Safety, Criminal Justice, Criminology, or closely related field, and five (5) years general security, anti-terrorism, or law enforcement experience and one (1) year of lead experience.

An equivalent combination of education (not less than possession of a high school diploma/GED), training and experience that would reasonably be expected to provide the job related competencies noted above.

Possession of a valid Florida driver's license may be required.

Evaluation of education and experience. Drug testing is included in all pre-employment processing.

Employees may be required to work rotating shifts, including nights, weekends, holidays and overtime as needed. During periods when the Mayor issues an emergency declaration for the City of Tampa, all employees may be required to work in preparation, response or recovery activities related to the stated emergency.

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