Director Of Safety And Security

Job Title: Director of Safety & Security

Description:

The Director of Security and Safety at Georgia Safari Conservation Park (“Park”), plays a pivotal role in in ensuring the Safety and Security of the Park's guests, staff, wildlife, and assets. You will lead a dedicated team of security personnel, overseeing all aspects of security operations, emergency response preparedness, and safety protocols within the Park grounds. Your commitment to maintaining a secure and welcoming environment will be instrumental in ensuring an exceptional experience for all who visit.

Essential Duties, Skills & Responsibilities

Security Management:

• Coordinate security coverage to maintain a safe and secure environment throughout the Park.
• Develop and implement security policies, procedures, and protocols to mitigate risks and ensure compliance with relevant regulations.
• Conduct regular assessments of security vulnerabilities and recommend corrective measures as needed.
• Supervise and provide guidance to the security team, including hiring, training, scheduling, and performance evaluation.
• Communicate effectively with park management regarding all security matters.
• Submit written reports, without exception, of all incidents and activities occurring on Park property. Reports are to be concise, accurate, grammatically correct, and able to be presented for management and/or legal review.

Security Patrol:

• Conduct regular patrols of the Park grounds to deter and detect unauthorized access or suspicious activities.
• Monitor surveillance cameras and alarm systems to maintain a high level of situational awareness.
• Observe and report violations of local, state, and federal laws to senior management and cooperate with local law enforcement in providing appropriate information to assist in emergency and Security responses.
• Observe and report to senior management any guest or staff violations of Park policies.
• Ensure proper use and care of department equipment; operate and maintain equipment and vehicles in accordance with established policies and procedures. Safeguard company assets, property, equipment, and facilities against illegal and destructive acts.
• Performs all duties in accordance with established policies and procedures.

Firearms Team:

• Be willing to participate on the Park’s firearms team and work closely with the Animal Care Department in training for and responding to emergencies involving any of the Park’s animal collection.
• Collaborate with team members to ensure the safe handling and storage of firearms.

Emergency Response:

• Assist in developing and maintaining emergency response plans for various scenarios, including natural disasters, medical emergencies, and Security incidents.
• Conduct drills and simulations to test the effectiveness of emergency protocols and ensure staff readiness.
• Serve as the primary point of contact for emergency services and law enforcement agencies during critical incidents.
• Respond promptly to emergencies, including medical incidents, fires, inclement weather situations and Security breaches.
• Collaborate with other departments and local emergency services to mitigate potential risks and ensure adherence to the Park’s risk management and emergency response protocols.
• Provide immediate assistance in medical emergencies until professional help arrives.

First Aid and Safety:

• Ensure that the Park’s first aid kits are adequately stocked and maintained.
• Coordinate CPR and first aid training for staff members to enhance their emergency response capabilities.
• Collaborate with medical professionals to provide timely and effective medical assistance to visitors and staff in need.
• Be certified in First Aid and CPR or be willing to obtain certification.

Access Control, Technology, and Infrastructure:

• Oversee the installation and maintenance of security systems, including surveillance cameras, access control systems, and alarms.
• Evaluate emerging security technologies and recommend investments to enhance overall security capabilities.
• Manage relationships with security vendors and contractors to ensure the timely resolution of maintenance issues.
• Monitor and control access points to the safari park, ensuring that only authorized individuals enter designated areas.
• Verify identification and credentials as needed.

Collaboration and Communication:

• Liaise with other departments, including animal care, guest services, and facilities management, to address general security and safety concerns.
• Communicate security policies, procedures, and updates to staff members and ensure their understanding and adherence.
• Act as the primary liaison with law enforcement agencies, emergency service entities on all security-and emergency service-related matters.
• Interact with guests in a friendly and professional manner, providing assistance and information as needed.
• Assist in enforcing park policies to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all visitors.

Non-Essential Job Functions:

• May be assigned other areas of responsibility within the Security & Safety Department as well as special projects and assignments.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Education and Pre-Requisites:

• Bachelor’s degree in criminal justice, security management, emergency management, or a related field.
• Proven experience in security management, preferably in a zoo, wildlife park, or similar environment. Experience with lodging and overnight accommodations a plus.
• Certification in CPR, first aid, and emergency response training (or willingness to obtain it).
• Strong leadership skills with the ability to motivate and inspire a diverse team.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to interact effectively with staff, visitors, and external partners.
• Knowledge of relevant laws, regulations, and industry best practices related to security and safety.
• Proficiency in security technology and systems, including CCTV, access control, and incident management software.
• Demonstrated ability to read and write in English equivalent to a high school graduate. Ability to communicate in English particularly in emergency situations requiring clear and definitive articulation to assure confidence, control and safety of those involved; to respond to guests and employees with poise, tact and authority during routine and/or crisis situations; to interact effectively with all levels of employees and with law enforcement authorities; to make sound judgements, resolve conflicts and deal with both victims and perpetrators of crime.
• Function in a non-discriminatory manner. Must possess the ability to make mature and sound judgments; defuse and resolve conflicts.
• Available to work a variety of shifts including days, evenings, as well as weekends and holidays.
• Must possess and maintain a valid motor vehicle driver’s license and clean driving record.
• Will consider a comparable combination of education, training, and experience.

Physical and Medical Requirements:

• Must be capable of standing or walking for long periods of time (approximately 100% of their assigned shift); ability to climb stairs, bend, and stoop during the execution of duties.
• No significant uncorrected impairment of visual or auditory ability.
• Ability to lift and carry a weight up to fifty (50) pounds.
• Ability to physically intervene or restrain persons acting in a disruptive or disorderly manner.
• No allergies related to plants or animals that would interfere with the ability to work.
• Ability to operate in a sedentary fixed post position for long periods of time and/or entire shift in all weather conditions.

Additional Requirements:

• Successful completion of a post-offer background check, including criminal and driving records.
• Employees will be employed for a ninety (90) day probationary period.
• The Park is an Equal Opportunity Employer and provides a Smoke-free and Drug-free Work Environment.

This job description is not intended to be all-inclusive. Therefore, the employee may be required to perform other reasonably related duties as assigned by the immediate supervisor or other management. The Park reserves the right to revise or change job duties as business requirements dictate. It is mutually agreed that this job description does not constitute a written or implied contract of employment.

Compensation and Benefits:

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: Salary of $40,000 to $55,000 annually - commensurate with experience

Reports to: President

Benefits:

• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Retirement plan
• Dental insurance
• Vision insurance

If you have a commitment to security, are firearms trained and licensed, and are willing to contribute to the safety of our Park, we invite you to apply for the Lead Security & Safety Officer.

About Georgia Safari Conservation Park:

Georgia Safari Conservation Park is a master-planned zoological park being developed on 530 acres in rural Morgan County, Georgia, just one hour east of Atlanta. Phase I is scheduled to open in early 2024.

Our mission is to inspire in others a greater understanding, appreciation, and connection to the natural world. When fully developed, our park will bring three attractions together on one site: a guided African game drive, a traditional walk-through exhibit area, and luxurious overnight Lodging. We are committed to developing and promoting a unique, regional zoological culture dedicated to the conservation of threatened and endangered wildlife. We will create an environment conducive to the appreciation and understanding of animal diversity while simultaneously providing meaningful family recreation, and actively encouraging and developing an atmosphere that supports community participation and involvement.

Apply with resume and cover letter to employment@georgiasafari.com with name and position in the subject line

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $40,000.00 - $55,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Schedule:

• 8 hour shift
• Holidays
• Monday to Friday
• Weekends as needed

Ability to Relocate:

• Madison, GA: Relocate before starting work (Required)

Work Location: In person