Security Coordinator

About POTS

The mission of POTS is to be a loving community in the Bronx that nourishes the basic needs and hungers of all who come to its door. Helping low-income families and individuals since 1982, Part of the Solution (POTS) has grown to become a leading provider of emergency food, legal representation and social services in the Bronx. POTS’ unique “one-stop shop” model of interrelated programming has been designed to carry out its vision of helping low-income individuals and families move from crisis to stability and ultimately self-sufficiency. Last year, POTS’ work has touched the lives of more than 35,000 people, including over 9,000 children. POTS’ Food Pantry, operating since 1999, has provided hundreds of thousands of low-income Bronx residents millions of nutritionally-complete meals.

About the position

Reporting to the Associate Director, Operations and IT, the Security Coordinator is often the first point of contact for staff, clients, volunteers, and visitors—playing a vital role in creating a safe and welcoming environment. Their impact will go beyond traditional safety as they help protect both people and property, ensuring that services are delivered without disruption or harm. By greeting clients and visitors with professionalism and empathy, the Security Coordinator helps create a sense of safety that empowers staff and volunteers to focus on their roles without fear or distraction. Their calm, compassionate interactions will prevent escalation and ensure that everyone is treated with dignity. As part of the Emergency Response Team, Security Coordinator will be trained to respond to medical emergencies, volatile situations, and other critical incidents. This key staff member will perform his/her duties by ensuring POTS’ Core Values of Community, Respect, Hospitality, Empowerment, and Justice are upheld.

Responsibilities:

Client & Visitor Relations:

• Greet clients, employees, and visitors with courtesy and professionalism.
• Assist with directions, information, and access control procedures.
• Maintain a welcoming environment while ensuring adherence to security protocols.
• Maintain the reception area and provide a courteous and professional presence.
• Promote awareness and answer client questions about programs.
• Respond to client complaints and inquiries and direct to appropriate supervisors when necessary.

Security & Surveillance:

• Monitor and patrol assigned areas to prevent and detect signs of disturbances and ensure security of doors.
• Utilizing CCTV cameras to ensure all areas of building are operating with interruptions.
• Conduct regular security checks and report any irregularities such as fire hazards, leaking water pipes, and security doors left unlocked.
• Monitor and identify clients who exhibit disruptive or inappropriate behavior, and enforce company policies regarding restricted or banned for individuals to maintain a safe and respectful environment.

De-escalation & Conflict Resolution:

• Utilize advanced de-escalation techniques to manage confrontational or potentially volatile situations.
• Act as the first point of contact in handling security-related incidents with professionalism and tact.

Emergency Response:

• Serve as an active member of the Emergency Response Team.
• Respond promptly to incidents such as fire alarms, medical emergencies, volatile situations or evacuations.
• Participate in drills and emergency preparedness training sessions.
• Attend monthly Emergency Response Team meetings to debrief and communicate with team patterns or any observances.
• Take the lead in emergencies, coordinating the response and directing Emergency Response Team (ERT) members in implementing appropriate safety procedures and next steps.

Reporting & Documentation:

• Accurately document incidents via Salesforce or email to supervisor.
• Maintain open communication with supervisors and relevant personnel regarding security-related concerns.

Required Skills

• High school diploma or GED required; additional training in law enforcement or criminal justice is a plus.
• Valid security guard license/certification as required by local laws.
• Prior experience in security, military, or law enforcement preferred.
• Completion of certified de-escalation training (or willingness to obtain upon hire).
• CPR/First Aid certified (or willingness to obtain).
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
• Ability to remain calm under pressure and respond effectively to emergencies.
• Basic Spanish required; Proficiency preferred

Working Conditions:

• Must be able to stand or walk for extended periods.
• May be required to work evenings, weekends, and holidays.
• Potential exposure to outdoor weather conditions and potential hazards.