Campus Safety Officer, 3rd Shift in Chester

Widener University is currently seeking a full-time 3rd Shift Campus Safety Officer. This position works both indoors and outdoors, averaging 40 hours per week, with shifts from 12:00AM to 8:00AM. The position reports directly to the on-duty Lieutenant. Campus Safety Officers are responsible for responding promptly and effectively to calls for service, protecting University property and assets, enforcing University policies and regulations, and promoting positive community engagement through respectful, customer-focused interactions. This position requires a strong commitment to public safety, excellent communication skills, and the ability to build trust across a diverse campus population.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES (including, but not limited to):

• Serve as a designated Campus Security Authority (CSA) in compliance with the Clery Act.
• Conduct proactive, high-visibility patrols by foot, vehicle, or other means to deter and detect security threats.
• Respond promptly and professionally to service calls; conduct initial investigations and resolve incidents.
• Address reports of fire hazards, mechanical malfunctions, altercations, accidents, and criminal activity.
• Inspect campus facilities to identify and report potential security vulnerabilities.
• De-escalate conflicts and disputes with professionalism and composure.
• Accurately document incidents occurring on or near campus in detailed, objective reports.
• Provide courteous assistance and serve as a point of contact for campus inquiries and concerns.
• Collaborate with local law enforcement and emergency responders when necessary.

Secondary responsibilities:

• Work flexible or additional shifts, including dispatch duties as needed.
• Support University athletic events, ceremonies, and special functions.
• Monitor and manage crowd control during peak times and large gatherings.
• Report maintenance issues such as broken locks, lighting failures, or other safety concerns.
• Assist in coordinating emergency response efforts with external agencies during critical incidents.
• Perform other job-related duties as assigned or directed to support departmental needs and align with the mission, values and goals of Campus Safety.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS (education/training and experience required):

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Valid driver’s license.
• Prior experience in customer service or a security-related role.
• Strong interpersonal skills and ability to engage professionally with diverse populations.
• Proficiency in operating computers, radios, and mobile or vehicle-based equipment.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a team.
• Demonstrated ability to remain calm and tactful in challenging situations.
• Successful completion of background checks including PA Criminal, PA Child Abuse, and FBI clearance.

Preferred:

• Experience in higher education or school-based environments.
• Background in law enforcement, military, campus or public safety.
• Familiarity with the local community and surrounding areas.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS AND/OR UNUSUAL HOURS:

• Ability to walk for extended periods and navigate stairs in various building environments.
• Capacity to patrol outdoors in all weather conditions.
• Ability to stand or sit for long durations, both indoors and outdoors.
• Must be able to lift and carry objects weighing up to 55 lbs.
• Willingness to work non-standard hours, including nights, weekends, and holidays as needed.

All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply and will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, colour, national origin, age, sex, sexual orientation, disability status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. Widener University is committed to fostering an inclusive community in which faculty, staff, and students from a variety of backgrounds, cultures, and personal experiences are welcomed and can thrive. We are an equal opportunity employer and are committed to providing equal educational and employment opportunities for all persons without regard to age, colour, national origin, race, religion, disability, veteran status, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, or status as a protected veteran.