Security Officer (Full-time, Nights)

Merit Health Wesley; Hattiesburg (MS); On-site; USD 32,000 - 42,000; Full time

Job summary

Merit Health Wesley in Hattiesburg, MS is seeking a Security Officer to protect patients, staff and visitors. The role includes patrolling facilities, monitoring surveillance, and responding to security incidents while delivering courteous service and enforcing safety policies.

You will document incidents, assist with directions, coordinate with hospital staff and law enforcement as needed, and maintain a secure environment through vigilant observation and prompt action.

Qualifications

• 1-2 years of security or related experience.
• Healthcare or hospital setting experience preferred.
• BLS certification required.
• IAHSS certification preferred.
• Facility Security Officer Certification preferred.
• State security license required where applicable.

Responsibilities

• Patrol all areas of the facility to deter and detect suspicious activity.
• Assist visitors with directions and escort as needed.
• Monitor surveillance cameras and inspect property for risks.
• Investigate and document safety concerns and incidents.
• Respond to alarms and emergencies with appropriate action.
• Secure doors, windows, and access points after hours.
• Direct traffic and assist with crowd control during events.
• Collaborate with staff and law enforcement as needed.
• Complete accurate incident reports and logs.
• Perform other duties as assigned.
• Maintain regular and reliable attendance.
• Comply with all policies and standards.

Skills

Observational skills

Communication skills

Calm under pressure

Security procedures

Incident reporting

Physical fitness

Job description

Job Summary

The Security Officer ensures the safety and security of patients, staff, visitors, and property by patrolling facilities, monitoring surveillance systems, and responding to security incidents. This role provides exceptional customer service while enforcing safety policies and maintaining a secure environment.

Essential Functions

• Patrols all areas of the facility, clinics, and surrounding grounds to deter and detect unauthorized or suspicious activity.


• Provides assistance to visitors, including giving directions, answering questions, and escorting individuals as needed.


• Monitors surveillance cameras and conducts regular inspections of property to identify and address security risks.


• Investigates and documents reports of suspicious activity, safety concerns, and security violations.


• Responds promptly to alarms, emergencies, and incidents, ensuring appropriate actions are taken to resolve issues safely.


• Secures property by locking doors, windows, and gates after business hours and verifying the security of access points.


• Directs traffic, enforces parking regulations, and assists with crowd control during events or emergencies.


• Collaborates with hospital staff and law enforcement, during security-related situations.


• Completes and maintains accurate incident reports, logs, and documentation related to security activities.


• Performs other duties as assigned.


• Maintains regular and reliable attendance.


• Complies with all policies and standards.

Qualifications

• 1-2 years of experience in security, law enforcement, or a related field required


• 0-2 years of experience working in a healthcare or hospital setting preferred

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Strong observational skills and attention to detail to identify potential security risks.


• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to interact effectively with patients, visitors, and staff.


• Ability to remain calm and take appropriate action in high‑pressure situations.


• Knowledge of security practices, procedures, and equipment operation.


• Proficiency in writing clear and accurate incident reports.


• Physical ability to patrol and respond to emergencies across a large facility.

Licenses and Certifications

• BLS - Basic Life Support issued by American Heart Association (AHA), American Red Cross (ARC), or American Safety and Health Institute (ASHI) required


• IAHSS - Certification As A Security Officer preferred or


• Facility Security Officer Certification preferred


• License in state if required required

State Specific Requirements

• Alaska: Security Guard license required.


• Georgia: Completion of a 24‑hour Basic Security Officer Training program approved by the Georgia Board of Private Detective & Security Agencies and Crisis Prevention Intervention (CPI) certification required.


• Tennessee: Security Guard License required