Job Description

About the Work Unit

Vanderbilt University Public Safety (VUPS) is led by the Office of the Chief of Police in the Division of Administration. VUPS is a dedicated team of over 400 professionals united by a shared commitment to fostering a safe, secure, and welcoming environment for all in the Vanderbilt community. Organized into several specialized units, our department includes commissioned officers, security professionals, and skilled administrative staff, all working collaboratively to uphold the highest standards of community-based policing

Key Functions and Expected Performance:

Leadership & Administration

• Lead an assigned unit/shift, directly supervising safety and security staff, which will include: Weapons Detection Specialists, Community Service Officers (CSOs), and Safety and Security Specialists, and ensuring adequate resource allocation.
• Train, re-train, and educate staff on weapons detection systems and security protocols. Conduct quarterly performance evaluations, provide coaching, and manage performance conversations and necessary counseling.
• Maintain and update the shift schedule, review/approve timesheets, and time off/leave requests. Serve as operational backup for Weapons Detection Specialists and CSOs as needed.
• Conduct routine audits of operational processes, personnel inspections, and equipment checks to ensure adherence to departmental and regulatory compliance.
• Prepare and review all appropriate reports and documents submitted by direct reports. Keep management informed of significant security events, prepare activity reports, and participate in management and key stakeholder meetings.
• Lead accountability measures to ensure fair and impartial service delivery. Conduct preliminary investigations into employee misconduct complaints, providing disciplinary recommendations to management when warranted.

Security Operations & Calls for Service

• Conduct individual building security checks and directed patrols. Respond to general calls for service, including building access/lock-ups, motorist assists (vehicle access, jump starts), and personal safety escorts.
• Assist with emergency response (fire/medical), including secure transportation and aiding medical personnel in the detention of psychiatric patients.
• Conduct bi-weekly Emergency Phone Tests for the assigned zone.
• Provide backup for other officers/personnel as necessary.

Community Engagement & Special Events

• Proactively patrol assigned areas to identify potential security risks. Lead problem-solving initiatives through community partnerships to develop crime prevention strategies.
• Coordinate with Community Relations personnel regarding physical security, safety information, and crime prevention issues within the area of responsibility.
• Provide required security, crowd control, and order maintenance for special events, including athletic events, concerts, commencement, and visiting dignitaries.

Performs other duties as assigned.

Supervisory Relationships

The Safety and Security Supervisor is responsible for the assigned Safety and Security personnel during shift operations. This position reports administratively and functionally to the Safety and Security Manager(s) as assigned, and the Safety and Security Director.

Education and Certifications

• Must possess a High School Diploma or G.E.D. and have a minimum of three (3) years of proven experience as a security officer or equivalent role, with at least one (1) year of supervisory experience.

• Must successfully complete the department field training program and all required VUPS training (De-escalation, Pressure Point Control Tactics, CPR/AED certification, and CSO training), and demonstrate knowledge of all University and Police Department written directives, rules, and regulations within 30 days of hire.
• Must possess and maintain a valid Driver's License and a satisfactory driving record (subject to continuous third-party monitoring).

Experience and Skills

• Proven ability to supervise and guide staff, develop personnel skills, provide constructive feedback, and handle disciplinary issues. Must exhibit the willingness and ability to make timely, sound, fact-based decisions and accept responsibility.

• Must remain calm and objective during stressful or unpleasant situations, demonstrating self-restraint in challenging circumstances.

• Excellent demonstrated written and oral communication and public speaking skills. Must be able to establish and maintain effective working relationships with the public, enforcement officials, and diverse university/medical center constituencies (students, faculty, staff, parents).

• Excellent customer service skills and demonstrated problem-solving skills are essential. Must be able to organize, prioritize, and manage multiple tasks independently.

• Experience working with Microsoft Word, Excel, and other computer programs is preferred.

Working Conditions and Physical Requirements

• Must be able to stand for long periods, walk, climb, and lift. Must meet written departmental standards for appearance and grooming.
• Must pass a thorough background investigation and drug test demonstrating good moral character, a good driving record, and no prior criminal convictions that would prohibit certification under the State of Tennessee Private Protective Services Act.
• Must be available to work nights, weekends, and holidays and be willing to work in inclement weather and various weather extremes.
• Must be able to use necessary precautionary equipment (e.g., TB mask) and may encounter hazardous materials, infectious disease, blood-borne pathogens, loud noises, and potential physical danger from violent individuals.
• Must obtain required immunizations and medical tests to work in patient care and high-risk areas.

At Vanderbilt University , our work - regardless of title or role - is in service to an important and noble mission in which every member of our community serves in advancing knowledge and transforming lives on a daily basis. Located in Nashville, Tennessee, on a 330+ acre campus and arboretum dating back to 1873, Vanderbilt is proud to have been named as one of “America’s Best Large Employers” as well as a top employer in Tennessee and the Nashville metropolitan area by Forbes for several years running. We welcome those who are interested in learning and growing professionally with an employer that strives to create, foster and sustain opportunities as an employer of choice.

We understand you have a choice when choosing where to work and pursue a career. We understand you are unique and have a story. We want to hear it. We encourage you to apply today so that you might become a part of our story.