Hospital Security Officer: Patient Safety & Rapid Response

Northwestern Memorial Healthcare; Sycamore (IL); On-site; USD 36,000 - 48,000; Full time

Job summary

Northwestern Medicine is seeking a Security Officer I to protect patients, visitors, staff, and property within a hospital setting and to respond effectively to emergencies. You will conduct patrols, monitor access controls and alarms, and assist with escorts and safe transports.

The role requires a high-school diploma or GED, a valid driver's license, and relevant certifications. Candidates with healthcare security experience are preferred; excellent communication and reporting skills are

Qualifications

• High-school diploma or GED.
• Valid driver's license.
• IAHSS Basic exam within 90 days of hire.
• Maintain IAHSS Basic certification.
• Current Basic Life Support certification through American Heart Association within 9 months of hire.
• Successful completion of Northwestern Medicine Defensive Tactics in Healthcare within 6 months of hire.
• Interpersonal and communication skills necessary to interact effectively with a variety of individuals, including employees, medical staff, patients, visitors, law enforcement and other outside agencies.
• Writing skills necessary to complete reports and paperwork that meets departmental standards.
• Physical ability and knowledge of how to operate a motor vehicle.

Responsibilities

• Investigates/quells hospital incidents and disturbances to maintain patient, visitor, and employee security.
• Notifies appropriate city officials (police and fire) and prepares descriptive reports for supervisory personnel.
• Performs regular perimeter and internal patrols of the hospital buildings and grounds to assure protection of patients and property and to prevent the entry of unauthorized persons into the hospital. These patrols are both on foot and mobile.
• Conducts investigations into incidents of hazardous conditions, reported theft, criminal activity, and any other security or safety issues as reported.
• Monitors the access control system, fire and duress alarms, and the security video system.
• Controls traffic as necessary to always assure access for emergency vehicles and access for patients and visitors accordingly.
• Controls traffic as necessary during incidents and for helicopter transports.
• Maintains security of restricted areas by checking and locking doors according to pre-set schedules or as required by special circumstances.
• Provides escorts for staff to their vehicles as requested.
• Delivers deceased bodies to the morgue and releases same to authorized persons in accordance with established policies.
• Responds to all emergency codes in accordance with department specific guidelines.
• Alerts the department Manager of any activities or deviation from departmental standards that may require disciplinary action or follow-up.
• Enforces all hospital policies and procedures as directed.
• Officers must display a competent and professional service image yet be approachable and service minded at all times.
• This image should encourage people to freely ask for assistance or convey information that may allow the officer to prevent problems or reduce exposure of the hospital to damage or loss.
• Conduct contraband searches for patient and employee safety as needed.
• Monitor individuals or situations to ensure patient and employee safety as needed.
• Oversees staff parking permit process, and monitors compliance per established policy and procedure.
• Performs other related duties as assigned.

Skills

Interpersonal communication

Report writing

Physical fitness

Education

High-school diploma or GED

Job description

Northwestern Medicine is seeking a Security Officer I to protect patients, visitors, staff, and property within a hospital setting and to respond effectively to emergencies. You will conduct patrols, monitor access controls and alarms, and assist with escorts and safe transports.

The role requires a high-school diploma or GED, a valid driver's license, and relevant certifications. Candidates with healthcare security experience are preferred; excellent communication and reporting skills are