Security Officer/Guard-Armed

Become part of The Bradley Center, the psychiatric and behavioral health arm of the St. Francis - Emory Healthcare in Columbus, GA. As a dedicated mental health hospital, The Bradley  Center complements St. Francis’s acute care offerings and shares in the system’s recognized commitment to quality, patient safety, and community trust. With the backing of a hospital network that earns multiple honors and accreditations, The Bradley  Center is uniquely positioned to deliver specialized, compassionate psychiatric care in support of our region’s holistic well-being.

Job Summary

The Armed Security Officer is responsible for providing protective services to patients, visitors, staff, and the healthcare facility through proactive patrol, response, and control activities. The role includes deterring crime, ensuring safety, responding to incidents, and assisting in emergency situations. Officers are expected to respond with the appropriate level of force, including armed intervention when authorized and necessary, following hospital protocols and standards.

Essential Functions

• Patrol facility and grounds, serve as visible deterrent to crime and rule infractions.
• Monitor access points, operate metal detectors, and restrict prohibited items.
• Inspect doors, locks, and report safety/fire hazards.
• Respond to and assist in incidents, secure scenes, and support investigations.
• Provide escorts and perform services as defined in post orders.
• Maintain reports and logs, document incidents clearly and thoroughly.
• Participate in firearms and less lethal weapon qualification and training programs.
• Maintain proper handling, storage, and maintenance of assigned equipment.
• Collaborate with staff to address security concerns, emergencies, and clinical support.
• Perform duties professionally with courtesy, empathy, and respect.

Knowledge/Skills/Abilities/Expectations

• Ability to remain calm and perform effectively in high-stress, emergency situations.
• Skilled in verbal de-escalation and conflict resolution.
• Strong observation and reporting skills.
• Proficient in firearms handling and use-of-force decision-making.
• Ability to handle sensitive information confidentially.
• Must maintain a neat, professional appearance and comply with grooming/uniform standards.
• Frequent walking, standing, and patrolling, including stairs and uneven terrain.
• Must be able to lift and/or move up to 50 lbs occasionally.
• Moderate physical exertion required for restraining individuals and emergency response.
• Requires full range of motion including stooping, kneeling, reaching, hearing, and visual acuity.
• Regular exposure to patients, visitors, and emergency situations.
• Potential exposure to infectious diseases, blood/body fluids, and hazardous materials.
• Work may involve inclement weather, poor driving conditions, loud noise, and physical confrontations.

Education

• High school diploma or equivalent required.

Licenses/Certifications

• Ability to obtain and maintain state armed security officer license.
• Ability to obtain and maintain state firearms license.
• Must complete IAHSS Basic Certification within 12 months of hire.
• Valid driver’s license if required by facility policy.
• Maintain firearms and less lethal weapon certifications annually.
• Complete First Aid, CPR, and AED certification every 24 months.
• Complete FEMA ICS 100 and 200 (one-time requirement). All credentials must be obtained within the time frame required by facility policy.

Experience

• Must be at least 21 years of age.
• Healthcare security experience preferred.
• Prior military (honorable discharge) or law enforcement experience preferred (minimum four years).