Court Security Officer

Summary: Under the supervision of the Transport Lt. and Court Security Sgt. Will protect persons and property associated with the Courthouse; provide security at a Courthouse in which many high-level Elected Officials, Judges, Judicial employees, jurors, inmates and the public are coming and going often; patrol and inspect property to protect against fire, theft, vandalism, and deter suspicious and/or criminal activity.  Demonstrates strong ethical, professional, and service oriented customer service.Essential Duties & Responsibilities: The essential functions or duties listed below are intended only as illustrations of the various types of work that may be performed. The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related or a logical assignment to the position.
Assures effective Court security through the combined use of security techniques and equipment. Immediately report any emergencies to proper authorities, i.e. police, fire or ambulance.   Keep all data and records required providing reports to supervisor.  Adhere to and follow written policies and procedures.  Required to use good, sound judgment in dealing with customers, attorneys and staff and be an example to produce fair and equitable results for all concerned.  Assist in any situation or problem that requires more than normal consideration.   Maintains a good, clean and safe working environment always being alert of safety hazards that could endanger the wellbeing of visitors, staff and judges. The duties of a Court Security Corporal include regular contact with the public, associates, inmate handling, transportation of inmates locally and long distance and other duties as needed.
Performs a high level of security and safety for Judges, staff, jurors, and the public ensuring no weapons or contraband is brought into the Courthouse using the latest technology while putting the highest priority on human life. On occasion due to heightened security risks it is required that an extremely higher level of screening is used combining technology and human abilities in order to provide maximum security.   Initializing and building confidence in the security provided; improving security at deterring problems that may arise according to New Mexico Supreme Court Security guidelines.  Responsible for making sure Security Regulations and Guidelines are being followed by the security staff.  Security is responsible for screening of the public patrons entering the complex.  Responsible for ensuring all court visitors make it to the correct courtroom.  Provides various tasks for Judges and assists court staff, public patrons, and follow up on inmates and others entering the Court Complex.  The security staff may at times hear confidential information that is just that, confidential.  There are numerous security devices that have to be monitored.  Perimeter checks are to be performed in non-routine patterns.  
Must have knowledge in report writing, along with daily paperwork, assignments, keeping track of employee’s attendance record, and giving directives related to work and other responsibilities that need to be performed such as properly opening and closing of the facility, supervision of all security efforts and up to date on procedures.  Demonstrates continuous efforts to improve operations, decrease turnaround times, streamline work processes, and work cooperatively and jointly to provide quality seamless customer service.
In times of critical need may be required to report for duty at the Detention Center to fill positions for which they are qualified for.Education, Certification and Experience:
Must have a high school diploma or GED certificate; a valid Driver’s License.  Must have general knowledge of security management and safety practices; law enforcement investigative techniques; fire and police reporting procedures; first aid methods and techniques; basic computer operations. Must be able to pass a criminal background investigation and a pre-employment, random drug screen, firearm qualification and taser certification.Screening with the use of the Rapiscan x-ray machine, stand-up walk through and handheld wand:

1. Knowledge being able to distinguish between items in bags when looking for contraband items.
2. Knowledge in the metal, organic, and inorganic items as they pass through the machine.
3. Knowledge in body language, this plays a key role in the screening process. 
4. Knowledge in what personal effects will need to be removed when going through the walk-through metal detector.
5. Knowledge in the proper procedure when using the handheld wand.

Giving proper directions to court rooms:

1. Knowledge in reading the court dockets.
2. Knowledge in courtroom rules and dress code.
3. Knowledge of the procedures for domestic violence cases.
4. Knowledge of the procedures for jury trials.
5. Knowledge of the procedures for JQ and other sequestered hearings 

Building and Courtroom security

1. Knowledge of the Transport Manual to ensure transporting officers know and follow proper procedure when entering the building and moving to and from courtrooms.
2. Knowledge in courtroom procedures for evacuations when security and control is paramount.
3. Knowledge of the rules for courtroom behavior and procedures. 
4. Knowledge on how to control all access points in the building.
5. Knowledge of the building notification system in the event of an emergency. 
6. Ability to be alert to surroundings while conducting perimeter check and the items that need to be checked.

Equipment used:

1. Knowledge in computer skills.
2. Knowledge in the electronic security monitoring system.
3.  Knowledge in fire alarm system and safety equipment. 
4.  Knowledge in equipment used inside the courtroom.
5. Knowledge of security devices and control panels.