Security Operations Center Operator I, Full-time, Days

Northwestern Medicine; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 25,000 - 36,000; Full time

Job summary

Northwestern Medicine in Chicago seeks a SOC Operator I to safeguard patients, staff and facilities. This role supports 24/7 monitoring across cameras, access control and alarms, delivering prioritized incident analysis to the Security Operations Team.

You will receive, prioritize and dispatch responses; escalate critical events; and coordinate with law enforcement and emergency services. A HS diploma and IAHSS basics are required.

Qualifications

• HS diploma or GED required with IAHSS Basic exam within 90 days.
• Maintain IAHSS Basic certification; strong documentation skills.
• Excellent interpersonal and written communication for diverse audiences.
• Able to multitask and prioritize in a 24/7 security setting.
• Willing to work nights, weekends, and holidays.

Responsibilities

• Receive and prioritize calls, emails, and alerts related to security incidents.
• Dispatch security personnel according to procedures and protocols.
• Monitor cameras, access control, and other security tech in real time.
• Respond to alarms and initiate appropriate procedures.
• Maintain clear communication with security staff and leadership.
• Record all incidents and actions in the incident management system.
• Coordinate with emergency services for timely response.
• Escalate high‑priority incidents to management as needed.
• Work with vendors to rectify hardware or software issues.

Skills

Interpersonal skills

Attention to detail

Multitasking

Writing skills

MS Office

Security tech

Physical endurance

Shift work

Problem solving

Education

High school diploma or GED

IAHSS Basic exam within 90 days

IAHSS Basic certification

Assoc/Bachelor's degree (preferred)

Valid driver's license (preferred)

Tools

MS Office

Access control systems

Surveillance cameras

Alarm systems

Job description

Schedule

3:00pm-11:30pm Friday through Tuesday, 40 hours per week (5 8-hour shifts); holiday requirements; full-time onsite

Security Operations Center (SOC) Operator I

reflects the mission, vision, and values of NM, adheres to the organization’s Code of Ethics and Corporate Compliance Program, and complies with all relevant policies, procedures, guidelines and all other regulatory and accreditation standards.

The SOC Operator I has high visibility and is directly accountable for the effective and efficient flow of information from the SOC to the Security Services Officers, Security Supervisors, Security Coordinators and Operations Managers. The SOC is a 24/7 operation which provides the Security Services Department with a comprehensive monitoring approach to provide broad visibility of activity across the hospital(s), leverages intelligence from several systems and technology databases that provide advanced correlation, and analysis capabilities to deliver a prioritized list of actionable security incidents to the Security Operations Team.

The SOC Operator I will play a critical role in ensuring the safety and security of our patients, facilities, visitors and staff members.

Responsibilities

• Receive and prioritize incoming calls, emails, and alerts related to security incidents and emergencies.
• Dispatch security personnel to respond to incidents, alarms, and requests for assistance according to established procedures and protocols.
• Monitor surveillance cameras, access control systems, and other physical security technologies to detect and assess security incidents in real-time.
• Respond to security alarms, including intrusion alarms, fire alarms, and duress alarms, and initiate appropriate response procedures.
• Maintain clear and effective communication with security personnel, supervisors, and other stakeholders to coordinate incident response activities.
• Record all incidents, responses, and actions taken in a detailed and accurate manner using incident management system or computer aided dispatch.
• Assist with the implementation and enforcement of security policies and procedures.
• Provide clear and concise instructions to security personnel and guide them during critical situations.
• Relay critical information and updates to appropriate stakeholders, including hospital leadership, in a timely manner.
• Coordinate with internal and external emergency services, such as law enforcement, fire departments, and medical services, to facilitate a timely and effective response to emergencies.
• Escalate high-priority incidents or emergencies to appropriate management or authorities as necessary.
• Address and relay any security related hardware or software issues as needed. Continue to work with vendors or internal support to rectify any issues that arise.

Qualifications

• High-school diploma or GED.
• Successful completion of IAHSS Basic exam within 90 days of hire.
• Maintain IAHSS Basic certification.
• 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.
• Attention to detail to accurately document incidents and maintain records.
• Ability to handle multiple tasks and prioritize effectively in a fast-paced environment.
• Writing skills necessary to complete reports and paperwork that meets departmental standards.
• Physical ability to sit for extended periods and operate computer equipment.
• Willingness to work in shifts, including nights, weekends, and holidays, as physical security operations require 24/7 monitoring.
• Proficient in the use of Microsoft Office applications and the Internet.
• Familiarity with physical security principles, procedures, and technologies, including surveillance cameras, access control, and alarm systems.
• Strong problem-solving and decision-making skills to assess situations quickly and determine the appropriate course of action in a calm demeanor.

Preferred

• Previous experience in a security dispatching role or similar position.
• Associate/Bachelor's degree.
• Valid driver's license.

Equal Opportunity

Northwestern Medicine is an equal opportunity employer (disability, VETS) and does not discriminate in hiring or employment on the basis of age, sex, race, color, religion, national origin, gender identity, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation or any other protected status.

Background Check

Northwestern Medicine conducts a background check that includes criminal history on newly hired team members and, at times, internal transfers. If you are offered a position with us, you will be required to complete an authorization and disclosure form that gives Northwestern Medicine permission to run the background check. Results are evaluated on a case-by-case basis, and we follow all local, state, and federal laws, including the Illinois Health Care Worker Background Check Act.

Artificial Intelligence Disclosure

Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools may be used in some portions of the candidate review process for this position, however, all employment decisions will be made by a person.

Benefits

We offer a wide range of benefits that provide employees with tools and resources to improve their physical, emotional, and financial well-being while providing protection for unexpected life events.

Please refer to the Benefits Eligibility by Employment Classification to determine benefits eligibility for job postings.

If sign-on bonus is included in a job posting eligibility is as followed: Internal employees and rehires who left Northwestern Medicine within 1 year are not eligible for the sign-on bonus. Exception: New graduate internal employees seeking their first licensed clinical position as a Registered Nurse at NM may be eligible.