Security Specialist I

The City of Boise is hiring a Security Program Specialist I to maintain safety and security at Boise Public Library locations. This role combines professional security operations with public service in a community-focused environment.

You'll patrol library facilities, monitor security systems and cameras, enforce the Library Code of Conduct, and respond to security incidents and emergencies. You'll work directly with mental health coordinators, community resource specialists, and law enforcement to address security concerns and assist library users in crisis situations.

This position requires independent judgment, strong conflict resolution skills, and the ability to stay professional under pressure. You'll handle everything from routine patrols to emergency coordination, making security decisions that keep our libraries safe and accessible for staff and the public. Expected hours include evenings and weekends.

What we're looking for:

• Security, emergency management, or risk and safety experience (preferred)
• Strong interpersonal and problem-solving skills
• Ability to work flexible schedules and respond to emergencies

Required Knowledge, Experience, And Training
High school diploma or equivalent.

Knowledge of:

• Principles, practices and techniques of conflict resolution
• Computer usage including related software.

Licensing And Other Requirements

• Valid state-issued driver's license

• First aid, use of automated external defibrillators (AEDs), and CPR certification or the ability to attain these certifications within six months of employment.

Special Requirements
Applicants must be able to pass:

• City of Boise background check processes which includes a criminal history check and reference checks in accordance with the City of Boise Hiring Process Regulation
• Driving Record Check
• Criminal Justice Information System background check (CJIS)

Why the City of Boise?

The benefits are real and among the best in the Treasure Valley:

• Zero-cost premium medical coverage for you and your family (an estimated $10,000 - 20,000 value)
• PERSI retirement (11.96% Employer Contribution) plus employer-matched 401(k)/457b
• 10 hours vacation/month (grows with tenure), 12 paid holidays, and 8 hours sick leave/month
• 10 weeks paid parental leave
• $500 annual wellbeing incentive
• Tuition reimbursement and free local bus pass
• Basic life and long-term disability insurance at no cost

Disclaimer: This job posting may close earlier than the listed closing date. If this occurs, a minimum of 24 hours’ notice will be provided prior to closing. Applications received for this recruitment may be used to fill similar vacancies within the City of Boise as they occur.Performs routine or repetitive tasks with specific instructions and set procedures. Handles basic issues and problems and refers more complex issues to higher-level staff. 

Patrols internal and external areas while providing customer service to the public and city employees, responding to actual or potential security issues. 

Monitors security systems and troubleshoots alarms, including library cameras, and investigates security activity and emergencies using established protocols. Addresses escalated incidents in city buildings.

Enforces the Library Code of Conduct while ensuring consistent implementation of security operations policies, regulations and procedures. 

Collaborates with law enforcement and emergency services, as directed, to resolve issues and mitigate threats. Supports preparedness and response efforts for protests, public presentations and serves as backup for evacuation coordinator. 

Works closely with BPD Mental Health Coordinator and Library Community Resource Coordinator to resolve security-related concerns and assist library users in crisis. 

Performs other duties as assigned. Nothing in this job description restricts management's right to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this position at any time.Additional Required Knowledge, Experience, And Training

Ability to:

• Work a flexible schedule
• Read and understand schematic diagrams, technical manuals and documentation
• Quickly recognize and analyze irregular events
• Exercise tact and diplomacy in dealing with difficult and sensitive people, issues and situations
• Use software applications for analysis and presentation
• Operate computer with demonstrated proficiency using contemporary databases, word processing and spreadsheet software applications;
• Collect, evaluate and interpret appropriate and applicable data
• Demonstrate exceptional interpersonal skills
• Adjust to change, personalities and shifting priorities at a moment’s notice
• Be composed and professional in stressful situations
• Solve problems and exercise expert independent judgement and initiative
• Work with minimal supervision individually or with a team to handle critical and stressful situations
• Demonstrate a positive attitude
• Abide by safety protocols when working in hazardous and/or hostile environments
• Communicate effectively in the English language at a level necessary for efficient job performance
• Performs all essential functions as assigned by an authorized employee, supervisor and/or manager with or without reasonable accommodation.

Individuals must be capable of operating vehicles safely and have an acceptable driving record.

Preferred Knowledge, Experience, And Training
Two years of experience in security, emergency management or risk and safety.

Certified Protection Professional (CPP) certification or Physical Security Professional (PSP) certification.



The physical effort characteristics and working environment described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Physical Efforts
While performing the duties of this job the employee is occasionally lifting/carrying up to 20 pounds and rarely lifting/carrying up to 10 pounds. Also, the employee is rarely pushing/pulling up to 20 pounds. The noise level is occasionally moderate. Work includes sensory ability to talk, hear, smell and touch. Work in this position also includes close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision and depth perception. Employees will sit, stand, walk, reach and grasp. Position requires hand/finger dexterity.

Working Environment
The work environment will include inside conditions and outdoor weather conditions. Employees will also drive a vehicle as part of this position.
This position works: Works during evening meetings and will respond in emergency situations with potential, unknown hazards, both human and environmental.