Security Guard

The Union Public Library is seeking a detail-oriented and observant person to assist in maintaining a safe, secure, and welcoming environment for staff and patrons at our new, state-of-the-art main library facility opening this spring.

Duties include (but not limited to):

• Assisting staff in maintaining order in the library
• Visually inspecting areas of the building and grounds to ensure they are secure and free of hazard
• Escorting persons from the library after noncompliance to verbal warnings regarding the Rules of Conduct
• Greet and assist patrons in answering questions and directing them to appropriate staff or department
• Providing written and/or verbal reports to Person-in-Charge regarding irregularities or incidents
• Following opening and closing procedures
• Providing descriptions to supervisors of individuals who may have seriously violated the Rules of Conduct
• Attending meetings and training, as well as other duties as assigned.

Under direction of the Assistant Director, the library guard patrols and protects public property against theft, vandalism, fire, illegal or unauthorized entry, and disorderly behavior. On occasion the library guard may be expected to work at another location for special programs, or to cover an absence of another regularly scheduled guard.

The successful candidate will work as part of the Library team, interact positively with customers of all ages and backgrounds, and remain level-headed in a crisis. This position requires the successful candidate to be on their feet 90% of the time, patrolling the library. The successful candidate may be required to pass a background check. Prior security knowledge or experience is a plus.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Knowledge of problems involved in safeguarding persons, buildings, grounds, and properties
• Knowledge of techniques used in maintaining order among groups of people
• Ability to work harmoniously with library staff, partners and patrons
• Ability to learn and follow library policies, procedures, and the Rules of Conduct
• Ability to remain alert while performing repetitive duties
• Ability to give clear and accurate directions
• Ability to be courteous but firm with the public when controversies arise
• Ability to de-escalate negative interactions
• Ability to use computer for email and report writing
• Ability to use a two-way radio
• Ability to prepare simple but clear, concise, accurate, and legible reports of conditions noted and actions taken
• Ability to take proper action to prevent potential accidents
• Ability to remain calm and professional, during emergencies or when faced with challenging or confrontational situations
• Ability to read, write, speak, and understand English sufficiently to perform the duties of the position

Education and Experience Requirements Appointees will be required to possess a driver's license valid in New Jersey only if the operation of a vehicle, rather than employee mobility, is necessary to perform the essential duties of the position.

This position requires standing and walking most of the day, patrolling. If offered the position you may be required to pass a background check. Prior security knowledge or experience is a plus. Fluency in Spanish is a plus. 

Benefits Paid time off (vacation, sick) NJ State Defined Contribution Retirement Plan (DCRP)

Note: This is a Union position represented by Union Council 8, I.F.P.T.E. AFL-CIO, CLC and a NJ Civil Service position and will be subject to all rules applicable to NJ Civil Service. Applicants must comply with the “New Jersey First Act.” The Union Public Library is an Equal Opportunity Employer. 

To Apply:

Please submit a cover letter, resume and three professional references to [email protected] with “ Security Guard Position” in the subject line, no later than April 11, 2025. 

No phone calls please. 

“Good Faith” Salary, Range, or Rate of Pay

Salary: $20/hour Job Type: Part Time Schedule: 15-18 hours/week (some evenings and Saturdays required)