Security Communications Coordinator

University of British Columbia; Kelowna; On-site; CAD 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

A prominent educational institution in Kelowna is seeking a Security Communications Coordinator to oversee campus security operations, including alarm systems and CCTV. The role requires a degree in Criminology or Psychology, minimum two years of security experience, and strong communication skills. The successful candidate will coordinate security communications and liaise with emergency services to ensure safety across the campus. Candidates should demonstrate effective planning and decision-making abilities in high-stress situations. This position involves 12-hour shifts.

Qualifications

• Minimum two years of experience in security operations.
• Possession of a valid Class 5 driver's license.

Responsibilities

• Coordinates communication related to all security activities.
• Operates the 24/7 communications network.
• Acts as liaison with local emergency services.
• Monitors multiple computer databases for information relay.
• Conducts regular system integrity checks.
• Supervises contract security personnel.
• Receives and documents complaints.
• Investigates incidents and prepares reports.
• Responds to emergency situations assisting as needed.

Skills

Effective planning and problem-solving

Interpersonal and communication skills

Organizational skills

Ability to work independently and in teams

Education

Undergraduate degree in Criminology or Psychology

Tools

Two-way radio communication

Job description

Staff - Non Union Job Category M&P - AAPS Job Title Security Communications Coordinator Department UBCO | Dispatch | Campus Security (Doug Hufsmith) Posting End Date December 21, 2025

Note: Applications will be accepted until 11:59 PM on the Posting End Date.

Job End Date December 31, 2026

Job Description Summary

JOB SUMMARY

UBCO Campus Security is committed to fostering a safe, inclusive, and supportive environment in which to learn, work, and grow. We strive to deliver and promote innovative approaches to campus safety through professionalism, empathy, and integrity.

Security Communications Coordinators (SCCs) play a vital role in maintaining oversight of alarm systems, access control, and Closed-Circuit Television (CCTV) operations in support of campus security. They act as liaisons between Campus Security, other university departments, and emergency services.

SCCs respond to inquiries efficiently and professionally, supporting a respectful and collaborative working environment. Their efforts help ensure the ongoing safety and security of UBC Okanagan faculty, staff, students, visitors, and university property.

ORGANIZATIONAL STATUS

Reports directly to the Manager, Communications and Patrol, UBC Okanagan Campus Security.

WORK PERFORMED

• Coordinates communication related to all security activities.
• Operates and controls the 24/7 communications network, managing day-to-day issues involving security, parking, facilities management, Safe Walk, Blue Phones, residences, and all campus buildings and properties.
• Acts as liaison with local emergency services (RCMP, Ambulance, Fire Department) and University departments, contacting appropriate UBC authorities and administrators in the event of an emergency.
• Monitors, assesses, and analyzes multiple computer databases to obtain and relay information to the appropriate departments, authorities, and individuals.
• Conducts regular system integrity checks according to established protocols and takes appropriate action based on results.
• Supervises and oversees contract security personnel, ensuring appropriate responses and assistance are provided to the campus community as needed.
• Receives and documents complaints, dispatches issues to appropriate personnel, and ensures all actions are recorded in accordance with policies and procedures.
• Investigates incidents and complaints, prepares reports, makes recommendations for resolution, and conducts follow‑ups both remotely and in person, as required.
• Responds to critical and emergency situations, assisting as needed in incidents involving fire, building mechanical issues, student misconduct, police involvement, and medical emergencies.
  • Provides first aid, CPR, AED, and oxygen therapy in accordance with current occupational first aid legislation.
• Provides field oversight during patrols and incident responses to ensure compliance with contracts, best practices, and completion of assigned duties.
• Operates security systems including CCTV, intrusion alarms, Access Control Systems, and dispatching Campus Security personnel.
• Ensures documentation accuracy and compliance with all regulatory requirements.
• Coordinates and maintains logs, incident reports, and other operational records.
• Provides direction, training, and feedback to contracted security personnel regarding documentation and reporting standards.
• Participates in interdepartmental initiatives, contributing to information sharing and safety improvements across campus.
• Responds to short‑notice shift coverage requests as required to maintain operational continuity.
• Performs other related duties as assigned.
• Works a modified schedule consisting of 12‑hour shifts: 0700–1900 hours and 1900–0700 hours, with no off‑site scheduled breaks.
• May be scheduled for various 8‑hour shifts to accommodate operational requirements, including ceremonies, special events, and periods of high call volume during both day and night shifts.

Judgment and Decision‑Making

The position requires the ability to prioritize and exercise sound judgment when communicating information, ensuring adherence to established policies and procedures. Inappropriate or inaccurate communication may adversely affect the services provided by others.

The incumbent must be capable of effective planning and problem‑solving, applying policies and procedures thoughtfully while utilizing available resources, system reliability, and technology to maintain safe and secure campus operations.

Although some protocols and procedures exist, not all situations are covered by documentation. The role often involves responding to unique or exceptional circumstances that require proactive assessment and independent decision‑making. In such situations, the incumbent must demonstrate strong concentration, critical thinking, and problem‑solving skills to achieve effective outcomes.

Decisions and actions taken in this role can significantly influence the culture, working environment, and staff morale within Campus Security, as well as the department’s overall effectiveness and relationships with other University departments and external agencies.

Supervision Received

Reports directly to the Security Managers. While the position works with minimal direct supervision, the incumbent is expected to carry out mutually agreed‑upon objectives and provide regular updates on progress and performance.

Supervision Given

Provides day‑to‑day leadership and operational direction to contracted security personnel to ensure effective campus security operations. Supervises delegated tasks and operational requirements as assigned by the Security Manager(s) and/or the Associate Director, Campus Security.

Qualifications

Minimum Requirements

• Undergraduate degree in Criminology, Psychology, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Minimum of two years of experience in security operations and personnel administration.
• Possession of a valid Class 5 driver’s license.

Preferred Qualifications

• Valid Basic Security Training certification (Level I and II) and Basic First Aid certification.
• Experience in security operations, training, and staff or office management.
• Demonstrated ability to work effectively both independently and within a team environment.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to gather, record, and maintain information accurately and with attention to detail.
• Proficiency in written communication, including the ability to prepare clear and comprehensive incident and administrative reports.
• Ability to respond appropriately to inquiries, both verbally and in writing, and to make suitable referrals when required.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to engage clearly, attentively, and respectfully.
• Demonstrated ability to actively listen, seek clarification when necessary, and maintain professionalism in all interactions.
• Proficiency in two‑way radio communication and standard security terminology.
• Commitment to providing courteous, patient, and professional service to all members of the campus community.
• Competence in word processing, data entry, and operation of standard office and communications equipment.
• Ability to assess the urgency and nature of inquiries or incidents and prioritize responses appropriately.
• Capacity to remain calm, composed, and effective during emergencies or high‑stress situations.
• Awareness of and sensitivity to confidential and sensitive issues, with the ability to uphold confidentiality in accordance with legislation and University policy.