Security Guard Lead

City of Austin; United States; On-site; USD 31,000 - 35,000; Full time

Job summary

City of Austin seeks a Security Guard Lead to oversee day-to-day security operations, conduct patrols, and respond to alarms and emergencies across multiple library locations. You will manage disturbances, provide high-level customer service, and guide security personnel and contractors.

The role requires strong leadership, de-escalation, and problem-solving abilities, with responsibilities including after-hours events, training, and enforcement of notices.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent and 3 years of security-related experience.
• May require a valid Texas Driver License.

Responsibilities

• Gathers and organizes reports for supervisor and management.
• Responds to alarms and emergencies; coordinates with responders.
• Conducts security patrols at locations and surrounding areas; reports hazards.
• Investigates disturbances and maintains order during emergencies.
• Provides customer service and information to the public about policies and services.
• De-escalates and resolves problems; reports to appropriate agencies when needed.
• Issues and enforces Criminal Trespass Notices; determines when police assistance is required.
• Oversees after-hours security staff and remote assignments; supports events.
• Directs traffic and provides crowd control for after-hours events.
• Transports and safeguards cash pickups/drop-offs between library locations.
• Trains and directs security personnel and contract staff on interventions and safety practices.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

De-escalation

Problem solving

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Tools

CCTV systems

Access control systems

MS Office

Job description

About This Position

We are seeking a Security Guard Lead to ensure a safe, welcoming environment for patrons and staff. This role leads day‑to‑day security operations, conducts patrols, responds to alarms and emergencies, manages disturbances, provides customer service, supports after‑hours events, issues Criminal Trespass Notices, and trains and guides security personnel. Strong leadership, communication, de‑escalation, and problem‑solving skills are essential.

Job Description: Purpose

Under limited supervision, provides visible safety and security services by ensuring a safe and pleasant environment for patrons.

Duties, Functions and Responsibilities

• Gathers and organizes reports for submission to supervisor; prepares management reports, policies, and other documentation.
• Responds to fire alarms, security alarms, and accidents - contacts appropriate emergency personnel.
• Conducts security patrols at locations, parking lots/garages, and surrounding areas for unsafe conditions and reports them as necessary.
• Investigates disturbances and in the event of an emergency, maintains order and safety of occupants, while reporting to the appropriate agency.
• Provides customer service and acts as a source of information and assistance to inform the public of information, services, programming, policy, and regulations.
• Anticipates, de-escalates, and solves problems and when needed, provides reports to the appropriate agency.
• Issues and enforces Criminal Trespass Notices for violations and determines if police assistance is required.
• Monitors welfare of security personnel working after‑hours, overnight, and at remote assignments.
• Directs traffic and provides crowd control and security services for after‑hours events held by internal and external customers.
• Transports and safeguards cash pick up and drop offs at all Library locations.
• Issues and monitors equipment for assigned staff (radios, badges, keys, uniforms, etc.).
• Provides direction and training to security personnel, contract employees, and other City departments regarding Non‑Violent Crisis Intervention and other training areas.

Responsibilities - Supervisor and/or Leadership Exercised

May provide leadership, work assignments, evaluation, training, and guidance to others.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Must possess required knowledge, skills, abilities, and experience and be able to explain and demonstrate, with or without reasonable accommodations, that the essential functions of the job can be performed.
• Knowledge of Federal, State, Local laws, and ordinances.
• Knowledge of city practice, policy, and procedure.
• Knowledge of equity, diversity, and inclusion principles and practices in libraries.
• Knowledge of supervisory and managerial techniques and principles.
• Skill in oral and written communications.
• Skill in handling multiple tasks and prioritizing.
• Skill in data analysis and problem solving.
• Skill in handling conflict and uncertain situations.
• Skill in using computers and related software, including Microsoft Office products.
• Ability to facilitate discussions and resolve issues.
• Ability to lead and train diverse groups.
• Ability to quickly recognize and analyze irregular events.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective communication and working relationships with city employees and the public.
• Ability to provide high‑level customer service.
• Ability to work with people of diverse backgrounds.

Minimum Qualifications

Graduation from an accredited high school or equivalent, plus three (3) years of providing security‑related services.

Licenses and Certifications Required

May require a valid Texas Driver License.

Preferred Qualifications

• Demonstrated experience in security operations acting in a lead role providing leadership, work assignment, evaluation, training, and guidance for a security workgroup or staff.
• Demonstrated extensive experience with security access control system(s).
• Demonstrated extensive experience in operating various Closed Circuit Television (CCTV) systems.
• Demonstrated security‑related customer service experience.
• Ability to travel to more than one (1) work location.

Compensation Range

The annual hiring range for this position is $22.63-$25.46.

Location

Location - Various City Locations.

Schedule

Schedule - Monday - Friday 7:00 am - 4:00 pm. Hours may include after‑hours, holidays, and weekend work. Work shift may change according to departmental business needs. Overtime may be required with or without notice. This position may require on‑call or call‑back responsibilities.

Driving Requirement (if applicable)

• This position may require a valid Texas Class C Driver’s License or the ability to obtain one by your hire date.
• External new hires must meet the City’s Driver Record Evaluation (DRE) standards (e.g., no more than 3 moving violations or 6 points in the last 36 months).

Travel

• If the position requires travel, you must meet Driver Safety Program standards.
• Otherwise, you are responsible for transportation to and from multiple job sites as needed.

Essential/Critical Employee Designation

Some positions are designated as Critical or Essential. Employees in these roles are required to report to work during emergencies or when operations are modified. This may include working from a designated site or an alternative work location.

Work Conditions

Work hours may vary based on operational needs and may include evenings, weekends, holidays, or on-call assignments. Must have the ability to read, write and speak English fluently. A skills assessment may be required as part of the hiring process.

Veteran Preference

Veteran candidates must provide a copy of their DD-214 at the interview to receive the veteran’s preference.

Background Check

Background Check: A criminal background check may be required, depending on the responsibilities of the position.

Join the City of Austin Team

At the City of Austin, we are more than just an employer—we are a vibrant community dedicated to shaping one of the nation's most dynamic and innovative cities. As we strive to fulfill our commitment as public servants, it is important that we ground our efforts in a set of guiding principles – Empathy, Ethics, Excellence, Engagement, and Equity – that anchor our delivery of services that significantly impact the lives of Austinites. Joining the City of Austin means embarking on a purposeful career, contributing to the community, and being part of a forward‑thinking organization that values every employee.

What Makes the City of Austin Special?

• Make a Difference: Join a team driving meaningful change in one of the fastest‑growing cities in the nation.
• Value and Innovation: Work in an environment where employees are valued and innovation thrives.
• Competitive Benefits: Enjoy a comprehensive compensation package that includes generous leave, work‑life balance programs, and extensive benefits.
• Retirement Security: Plan for the future with the City of Austin Employees' Retirement System.
• Sustainable Transportation Options: Commute easily with access to public transit and bike‑friendly infrastructure.
• Focus on Wellness: Stay healthy through wellness programs, on‑site fitness centers, and mental health support.
• Career Growth: Advance your skills and expertise with professional development and leadership opportunities.
• Modern Workspaces: Work in innovative and sustainable environments that foster collaboration and inspiration.

By joining us, you become part of a community that values its people and is committed to making Austin the most thriving and resilient city in the country.

EEO Statement for City of Austin

The City of Austin will not discriminate against any applicant or employee based on race, creed, color, national origin, sex, gender identity, age, religion, veteran status, disability, or sexual orientation. In addition, the City will not discriminate in employment decisions on the basis of an individual's AIDS, AIDS Related Complex, or HIV status; nor will the City discriminate against individuals who are perceived to be at risk of HIV infection, or who associate with individuals who are believed to be at risk.

City of Austin is committed to compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act. If you require reasonable accommodation during the application process or have a question regarding an essential job function, please call [phone] or Texas Relay by dialing 7-1-1.