Chief of Security

POSITION INFORMATION: BASIC DETAILS Full-Time/Part-Time: Full-Time FLSA Status: Exempt Pay is based on a number of factors including market location and may vary depending on job-related knowledge, skills, and experience.

POSITION SUMMARY

DUTIES AND REQUIREMENTS Job Summary: The Chief of Security (COS) is responsible for the overall management, supervision, and operational integrity of facility security functions within a contract detention facility. The COS ensures compliance with Performance-Based National Detention Standards (PBNDS) and contractual requirements while maintaining a safe, secure, and humane environment for detainees, staff, and visitors.

This role provides direct oversight of security personnel, detention officers, and medical security coordination , and serves as the primary liaison between contractor staff and client(s).

Key Responsibilities

1. Security Operations Oversight Direct and manage all physical security operations , including perimeter security, housing units, control rooms, and transportation. Ensure continuous compliance with detention standards and post orders. Lead response to emergencies, disturbances, use-of-force incidents, and critical events . Oversee inspections, audits, and internal quality assurance reviews. Maintain accountability of all security equipment (keys, restraints, radios, weapons, etc.).
2. Supervision of Detention Officers Provide leadership and supervision to Captains, Lieutenants, Sergeants, and line Detention Officers . Ensure proper staffing levels and shift coverage in accordance with the contract staffing plan. Oversee hiring, training, discipline, and performance evaluations of security staff. Promote professionalism, adherence to policy, and appropriate use-of-force standards. Ensure officers are trained in de-escalation, detainee rights, and safety procedures .
3. Medical Security & Overwatch Coordinate with medical personnel to ensure secure and timely access to healthcare services for detainees. Provide security oversight of medical units , including clinics, infirmaries, and outside hospital transports. Ensure proper procedures for: Medical escorts and guarding Handling of high-risk or vulnerable detainees Emergency medical responses (e.g., suicide prevention, critical care transport) Work with medical leadership to ensure compliance with health, safety, and detainee welfare standards .
4. Compliance & Client Liaison Serve as the primary security point of contact with client(s). Ensure adherence to contract requirements, directives, and federal detention standards . Support inspections, audits, and corrective action plans. Prepare reports, incident reviews, and executive summaries for government stakeholders.
5. Safety & Risk Management Act as Facility Safety Manager or coordinate closely with safety personnel. Oversee implementation of the Site Safety Plan , including OSHA compliance and risk mitigation. Conduct threat assessments and develop contingency plans for: Escapes Disturbances/riots Medical emergencies Natural disasters
6. Operational Coordination Ensure coordination between security, medical, transportation, and administrative departments . Oversee detainee movement operations, including court trips, transfers, and releases. Manage daily briefings, incident command structure, and operational planning. Required Qualifications U.S. Citizen; ability to obtain/maintain a Public Trust or higher clearance Bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice, Security Management, or related field (or equivalent experience) 5–8+ years of progressive experience in detention, corrections, or law enforcement 3+ years in a supervisory or command-level role Strong knowledge of detention standards (PBNDS/NDS) Experience working in contract detention environments preferred Core Competencies Leadership and command presence Crisis management and decision-making under pressure Knowledge of detention operations and civil immigration detention framework Interagency coordination and communication Report writing and compliance documentation Working Conditions 24/7 operational environment; on-call for emergencies Exposure to high-stress and potentially volatile situations Frequent interaction with detainees, law enforcement, and medical staff Reporting Structure Reports to: Project Manager / Facility Administrator Oversees: All security personnel, including detention officers and supervisory staff Bottom Line This role is essentially the top security authority on-site , responsible for: Running all security operations Managing detention staff performance and discipline Ensuring medical operations are secure and compliant Acting as the bridge between the contractor and client(s) Work Environment: Employees may be exposed to extreme cold or hot weather conditions, fumes, or airborne particles, toxic or caustic chemicals, and loud noise. Physical Requirements: Employees may be required to remain in a stationary position, stand, push, pull, climb, kneel, crawl, balance, squat, bend, and reach during shifts. Employees may be also required to use gear to move items around, including, but not limited to, carts and dollies. Employees may also be occasionally required to lift and/or move up to 49 pounds. Garda. World Federal Services is proud to be an equal opportunity workplace and is an affirmative action employer. We are committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of race, color, ancestry, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, citizenship, marital status, disability, gender identity or Veteran status. We also consider qualified applicants regardless of criminal histories, consistent with legal requirements. If you have a disability or special need that requires accommodation, please let us know.