Security Officer

The Cooper; Charleston (SC); On-site; USD 21,000 - 28,000; Full time

Job summary

BHC in Charleston, SC seeks a Security Officer to protect guests and staff while maintaining a safe, welcoming environment. The role emphasizes proactive vigilance, property patrols, and rapid response with First Aid/CPR in emergencies.

You will monitor cameras, investigate incidents, escort guests and colleagues, and coordinate with local authorities as needed. A high school diploma and security or law enforcement training are preferred, with strong communication and discretion essential.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent; security or law enforcement training preferred.
• 1–2 years in security or military/law enforcement, preferably in hospitality.
• First Aid, CPR, and AED certification strongly preferred.
• Strong communication and de-escalation skills under pressure.
• Understanding of emergency procedures, surveillance equipment, and safety compliance regulations.

Responsibilities

• Protect hotel guests, colleagues, and property at all times.
• Review logs and stay informed on daily shifts.
• Escort personnel and manage access.
• Inspect bags and monitor after-hours security.
• Coordinate with outside agencies for emergencies.
• Monitor surveillance cameras and investigate duress alarms.
• Document incidents and complete reports.
• Assist in scene management for accidents or disturbances.
• Be aware of ADA standards and maintain confidentiality.

Skills

Communication skills

De-escalation skills

First Aid Certification

CPR Certification

AED Certification

Discretion and integrity

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Security or law enforcement training

Tools

Surveillance equipment

Radio systems

Job description

The position of Security Officer serves as a vital safeguard for our guests and team members, maintaining a highly secure, welcoming, and safe environment at all times. Rather than simply enforcing regulations, this role centers on proactive vigilance through property patrols, investigative follow-ups, and the prompt reporting of property deficiencies to protect the hotel’s reputation and assets. As an essential member of our Emergency Response Team, the officer acts as a composed first responder during fire, safety, or medical crises, providing immediate First Aid and CPR while seamlessly coordinating with local authorities to ensure a discreet and safe resolution.

Duties & Responsibilities

• Ensure that the Hotel and its colleagues and guests are protected at all times.
• Review department log records and be familiar with pertinent information relevant to the daily shift.
• Review the hotel status and follow up actions with the previous shift officer.
• Issue radios and keys to designated hotel personnel. Maintain accurate records and ensure the safekeeping of such in accordance with hotel procedures.
• Ensure all non-hotel personnel arriving at the colleague entrance are properly escorted while on the property according to the hotel policy.
• Inspect colleague packages, purses, bags, etc. as colleagues enter or leave the property as designated by hotel policy.
• Provide escorts for colleagues in accordance with departmental standards.
• Ensure that after-hours access into secured hotel areas is properly authorized, monitored, and documented in accordance with hotel standards.
• Handle deliveries received during non-business hours following hotel procedures.
• Work with outside agencies (i.e., police) cooperatively and follow established hotel regulations.
• Coordinate emergency situations as specified in the departmental manual.
• Contact the Director of Loss Prevention immediately for emergency situations as specified in the departmental manual.
• Monitor surveillance cameras as assigned.
• Investigate duress alarms and comply with respective procedures.
• Patrol the property with specified equipment, checking all designated points and documenting all actions taken in accordance with departmental standards.
• Resolve safety hazard situations.
• Ensure all guest room doors are secured; assist guests with room access in accordance with hotel procedures.
• Challenge suspicious persons on hotel property in accordance with departmental procedures.
• Conduct designated investigations into theft or lost items, noise complaints, assault complaints, and other guest complaints, and complete documented reports. Respond to the scene of a guest/ colleague accident promptly; administer first aid / CPR and communicate specified information to EMS/ medical personnel as required.
• Report to scenes of guest or employee fighting and follow designated procedures.
• Comply with state regulations and hotel guidelines for handling intoxicated guests.
• Document, organize, and store all lost and found items given to security.
• Report to scenes of guests or colleagues fighting and follow designated procedures.
• Comply with state regulations and hotel guidelines for handling intoxicated guests.
• Report to scenes of vehicle accidents/ thefts and document specified information.
• Assist in moving/removing guest room possessions, inventory, and security of such.
• Complete all paperwork and closing duties before leaving. Review hotel status and any follow-up actions with the on-coming Security Officer.
• Be aware of ADA standards.
• Ensure security and confidentiality of all guest and hotel information.

Required Skills & Experience

• High school diploma or equivalent required; additional security or law enforcement training preferred.
• Minimum 1–2 years of security or military/law enforcement experience, preferably in a luxury hotel or high-end retail/hospitality environment.
• First Aid, CPR, and AED certification strongly preferred.
• Strong communication and de-escalation skills with the ability to remain calm and professional under pressure.
• Understanding of emergency procedures, surveillance equipment, and safety compliance regulations.
• Discreet, observant, and well-groomed with a strong sense of integrity and confidentiality.
• Proficiency in writing clear incident reports and using communication/radio systems.

Physical Requirements

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by a colleague to successfully perform the essential functions of this job:

• Must be able to lift equipment, supplies, etc. of at least 30 pounds.
• Must be able to resolve problems, handle conflict, and make effective decisions under pressure.
• The role may require extended periods of time on your feet, especially during peak hotel hours or events.
• Good hearing is necessary for effective communication with colleagues, guests, and stakeholders.
• Available to work varied shifts, including nights, weekends, and holidays.

Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.

BHC is an equal employment opportunity employer. Employment decisions are based on merit and business needs, and are not based on race, color, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, and related medical conditions), citizenship status, national origin, ancestry, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, age, religion, creed, physical or mental disability, marital status, veteran status, uniformed service, political affiliation, genetic information, or any other factor or characteristic protected by applicable law. BHC participates in E-Verify.