Security Guard

BrightStarCDC; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 25,000 - 39,000; Full time

Job summary

Bright Star CDC is seeking Security Officers to help create a safe, welcoming environment across our shelters and facilities in Chicago. You will patrol sites, monitor access, and respond to incidents with professionalism and trauma-informed care.

Roles involve recording events, assisting staff, and coordinating with local emergency services as required. Requires high school diploma or GED and reliability in high-pressure situations.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required.
• Experience in security, shelter settings, or human services preferred.
• Strong observation and situational awareness.
• Excellent communication and customer service abilities.
• Ability to document incidents clearly and promptly.

Responsibilities

• Patrol Bright Star CDC buildings, 24-hour shelter, grounds, and parking areas.
• Monitor entrances and restricted zones to prevent unauthorized access.
• Greet guests professionally and conduct screening as protocols require.
• Maintain logs and incident reports; coordinate with authorities when needed.
• Support safety drills, evacuation procedures, and compliance with policies.

Skills

Observation

Communication

De-escalation

Incident reporting

Customer service

Situational awareness

Basic computer literacy

Education

High school diploma or GED

Tools

Reporting software

Job description

Bright Star Community Development FP Corporation N

Security Officers at Bright Star CDC play a critical role in creating a safe, welcoming, and stable environment for all staff, shelter guests, residents, program participants, and visitors. Under the direct supervision of the Director of Security, Security Officers monitor activity across multiple Bright Star CDC sites, enforce policies, respond to incidents, and ensure that every person who enters our facilities is treated with professionalism, dignity, and respect.

Duties/Responsibilities

Patrol & Monitoring

• Conduct scheduled and unscheduled patrols of Bright Star CDC buildings, the 24-hour shelter, grounds, and parking lots.
• Monitor entrances, exits, and restricted areas to ensure safety and prevent unauthorized access.
• Observe and report suspicious activity, unsafe conditions, or policy violations.
• Operate and monitor security cameras, radios, access control systems, and alarm systems across all assigned locations.

Access Control & Guest Interaction

• Greet shelter guests, visitors, and staff professionally and respectfully.
• Conduct screening procedures as required by shelter and program protocols.
• Maintain accurate logs, sign-in sheets, and documentation for all persons entering or exiting the sites.
• Enforce Bright Star CDC policies firmly but compassionately, always prioritizing safety and trauma-informed care.
• Respond promptly to emergencies, disturbances, medical needs, and safety concerns.
• Use de-escalation strategies to reduce tension and prevent crisis escalation.
• Document incidents thoroughly in written reports and digital systems.
• Coordinate with Chicago Police Department, emergency medical support, or fire services as needed, following organizational procedures.

Safety, Facility Checks & Compliance

• Perform regular safety checks of fire extinguishers, doors, lighting, stairwells, exterior spaces, and equipment.
• Report maintenance challenges or facility hazards to appropriate staff.
• Support emergency drills, shelter protocols, evacuation procedures, and winter contingency operations.
• Ensure all safety and security policies are followed in accordance with Bright Star CDC’s standards, federal regulations, and City of Chicago shelter guidelines.
• Participate in staff meetings, required trainings, and certification sessions.
• Communicate daily with the Director of Security and site supervisors regarding concerns, incidents, and recommendations.
• Work collaboratively with shelter staff, case managers, program leaders, and community partners to ensure a holistic approach to safety.

Other Duties

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change at any time with limited notice.

Requirements

Required Skills/Abilities

Strong observation and situational awareness.

• Excellent communication, interpersonal skills, and customer service.
• Ability to remain calm, objective, and professional under pressure.
• Strong conflict-resolution and de-escalation skills.
• Ability to write clear, detailed incident reports.
• Basic computer literacy and ability to use digital logs or reporting software.

Education and Experience

• High school diploma or GED required.
• Prior experience in security, shelter settings, community centers, housing facilities, or human services preferred.
• Experience working with vulnerable populations (homeless individuals, families, youth, seniors) highly desirable.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand, walk, patrol, and climb stairs for extended periods.
• Ability to respond quickly during emergencies.
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds as needed.