Security Specialist

The Armed Security Specialist provides professional armed security services to safeguard Maricopa County personnel, elected officials, facilities, and visitors. This role includes duties such as conducting proactive patrols, responding to incidents, deterring and mitigating workplace violence, and supporting executive protection assignments. Armed Security Specialists also serve as safety consultants to County departments, performing physical security assessments and supporting emergency preparedness. Specialists apply techniques such as Non-Violent Crisis Intervention and de-escalation strategies to protect life and property while promoting a secure working environment.

This position is currently assigned to the night shift. Candidates are encouraged to consider their availability and willingness to work overnight hours when applying for this opportunity.

Are you passionate about safety and security with a high level of patience, dedication, devotion, and empathy? We are looking for motivated individuals to rise to the occasion! Maricopa County Department of Emergency Management prepares for/ responds to and recovers from large-scale community disasters. Some of our partners include local and state governments, industry leaders, universities, and community organizations active in disaster. One of our divisions is Security Services, which provides a strong safety & security atmosphere through a superior level of professionalism and outstanding customer service. We affirmatively promote, preserve, and enhance a safe, secure, comfortable, and welcoming environment for all County residents. Our responsibilities are to the people and safeguarding and protecting all County assets assigned to our care. Join our team to continue our efforts to keep our residents safe from disaster!

Proud to Offer

Work with a greater purpose

Tuition reimbursement

Exceptional work-life balance, with hybrid and alternative work schedule options

Opportunities for growth and development within Maricopa County

Low-cost, high-value healthcare for you and your qualifying dependents

Child care benefits, including access to our on-site center Maricopa County Kids Club, dedicated to serving Maricopa County families

Paid vacation, sick time, and parental leave

Extensive wellness program, including an incentive

Enrollment in the Arizona State Retirement System, a defined retirement benefit requiring a 11.98% per paycheck contribution rate that includes a 100% employer match on Day 1

Want to learn more about the County’s Qualifying and Compensation Philosophy? Follow this link to learn more! Work With Us | Maricopa County, AZ

We Require

Two years of armed security-related experience within a criminal justice system, security industry, corrections, law enforcement, or military police environment

High school diploma or GED

Other Requirements

Must successfully complete a pre-employment background investigation, including criminal history check, and driving record

Must successfully pass a pre-employment drug and alcohol screening

Must attend and successfully complete the Security Services New Employee Orientation Training and achieve a passing score on the Competency Assessment within 30 days of hire

Must obtain certification as Basic Life Safety, and CPR, First Aid, and AED within 30 days of hire

Must successfully complete defensive tactics and weapons retention training (to include baton, pepper spray, Conducted Electrical Weapons (CEW’s) such as non-lethal tasers) within 30 days of hire

Must complete all firearms qualifications with a passing score of 210 or higher on the MCSS-approved qualification course within 30 days of hire

Must possess a valid Arizona driver’s license

Must be able to wear required personal protective equipment (PPE), including a ballistic vest, while on duty

Must be willing and able to work varied shifts, including nights, weekends, holidays, and mandatory overtime as needed

Must be eligible to legally possess and carry a firearm in accordance with Arizona law and federal regulations

We Also Value

Post-secondary education in Security Management or related field

Three years of advanced security-related experience within a criminal justice system, security industry, corrections, law enforcement, or military police environment

Prior experience as an instructor in the security industry

Certification from DPS or other licensed agencies in firearms safety instruction or use of other non-lethal weaponry

Job Contributions

Monitor and operate the Security Command Center, including CCTV systems, multiple access control platforms, fire/burglar/duress alarms, and the 911 alert system

Conduct proactive patrols of County property, respond to alarms and disturbances, and manages high-risk incidents requiring physical intervention or de-escalation

Provide security support during sensitive employee relations matters, contentious public interactions, and escorts employees and visitors to and from County facilities and parking lots

Provide armed security and executive protection to County Supervisors and elected officials at public meetings, high-profile proceedings, and special events

Document shift activities, incidents, and notable observations through clear and timely written reports submitted to the Security Services Supervisor

Coordinate with local law enforcement, fire departments, EMS, and contracted security partners during emergencies or critical incidents

Participate in emergency response planning, drills, and exercise in partnership with Maricopa County departments and stakeholders

Enforce County parking policies, manage traffic flow, and issue citations as appropriate

Use approved levels of force, including physical restraint and control tactics, to maintain safety and order in compliance with department policy and training

Working Conditions

This position's work environment involves working in an armed capacity and requires the daily wearing of a duty belt, body armor, and other department-issued or authorized equipment. Work is performed in both indoor and outdoor environments and may involve exposure to all weather conditions. Duties may include:

Continuous walking for extended periods (up to one hour or more).

Standing for prolonged periods (up to three hours)

Running short distances during emergency response

Climbing stairs and traversing uneven terrain

Sitting and operating a vehicle for extended periods

Physically restraining or detaining individuals as needed using department-approved techniques

Carrying and deploying lethal and non-lethal weapons

Lift up to 50 pounds if necessary

Operating radios, alarm systems, and other mechanical/electronic security equipment

Exerting 20-25 lbs. occasionally, 10-50 lbs. frequently, or up to 10 lbs. constantly

Position is typically office or administrative work and is not substantially exposed to adverse environmental conditions

Incumbent may be subjected to extreme temperatures, wetness/humidity, respiratory hazards and noise and vibration

Incumbent may be subjected to moving mechanical parts, vibrations, fumes, odors, dusts, poor, ventilation, chemicals, oils, extreme temperatures, inadequate lighting, workspace restrictions, intense noises, and travel

The work will occur in an office and field environment. While performing the duties & responsibilities the employee maybe exposed to loud noise, noxious odors, unsanitary conditions, chemicals, electricity, moving mechanical parts, varying weather conditions, and other related conditions and situations. Position is subject to atmospheric conditions: Fumes, odors, dust, mists, gases, or poor ventilation

Selection Procedure

Consideration will only be given to candidates who submit online applications

Candidates will be contacted primarily through email and their Workday online application profile

Must pass a pre-employment background and/or fingerprint investigation as required by statute or policy, including drug and alcohol testing requirements for positions designated as safety-sensitive

Maricopa County is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all applicants. If you require a reasonable accommodation during the application process or to perform the essential functions of the position under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), please contact [email protected] to initiate the interactive process.

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