Washington Hebrew Congregation (WHC) is seeking a highly motivated and experienced Safety and Security Director to lead our security team and ensure the safety and security of our congregation, staff, students, and facilities. This position requires strong leadership, strategic thinking, and a commitment to maintaining a secure environment, and reports directly to the Executive Director.

Responsibilities:

Develop, implement, and manage a comprehensive security program:

Acts as the chief advisor to the executive leadership team on all safety and security related matters.
Assesses safety and security measures and risks and provides strategic initiatives based on findings.
Leads the communication and implementation of the overall safety and security strategy for the organization.
Oversees all aspects of the security program to include physical security controls, access control, visitor management, surveillance systems, alarm systems, and emergency preparedness.
Oversees security coverage for special events as well as building hours.
Administers and coordinates security-related capital projects, security equipment upgrades and replacement, and contract service arrangements for special duty personnel, etc.
Establishes and enforces security policies and procedures.
Conducts regular security audits and risk assessments.
Collaborates with relevant stakeholders to address relevant safety and security gaps, and works closely with other departments.
Remains informed of evolving security threats and trends and implements necessary adjustments.

Lead and manage the security team:

Recruits, trains, supervises, and evaluates security personnel while ensuring adherence to policies.
Develops and maintains a positive and professional security culture.
Ensures effective communication and collaboration between the security team and other departments.
Manage, including overseeing of hiring, security manager in Potomac location.

Emergency preparedness and response:

Develops and implements emergency response plans for various scenarios, including fire, medical emergencies, active threats, and natural disasters.
Maintains a thorough knowledge of non-violent crisis intervention and de-escalation techniques. Handles situations according to WHC policies and procedures.
Conducts regular training, emergency drills, and exercises with security and organization personnel.
Serves as the organization’s primary liaison with local law enforcement, emergency personnel, and other security agencies.

Other duties:

Assists in the creation of the annual security budget and manages the resources effectively.
Investigates security incidents and implements corrective actions.
Oversees internal investigations, as needed.
Maintains accurate security records and reports.
Communicates safety and security protocols and updates to staff and congregants.
Works with HR on pre-employment screenings.
Fosters a culture of safety and security awareness within the congregation.
Some evening and weekend work may be required, especially during religious services and events.
Works collaboratively with the clergy, leadership, and staff to ensure a safe and welcoming environment.

Qualifications:

Bachelor's degree in Security Management, Criminal Justice, or a related field (preferred).
Minimum of 10 years’ experience in law enforcement, the military, or professional security industry.
Minimum 5 years of experience in a leadership role within the security industry, preferably in a school, religious institution or non-profit setting.
Strong understanding of security best practices, risk assessment, and emergency preparedness.
Demonstrated management and knowledge of building security alarm, fire alarm, video surveillance, and access control, including appropriate application of devices to provide security for dynamic circumstances.
General understanding of physical and cybersecurity architecture.
Strong communication skills.
Knowledge and experience with developing and managing disaster recovery plans and business continuity plans.
Proven ability to develop, implement, and manage security programs.
Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
Ability to effectively present in a variety of formal group and one-on-one settings. Command attention and manage group processes.
Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
Knowledge of commercial security systems, investigative techniques, legal implications of security operations, and operating procedures of law enforcement agencies.
Proficient in security technology and software.
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
Discretion, integrity, and a commitment to the highest ethical standards.
Hold and maintain a valid driver’s license to respond to emergency/urgent service requests as needed.
Must be eligible and willing to obtain and maintain necessary permits and licenses to carry firearms in accordance with local, state, and federal laws.

Additional Desired Skills:

Experience working within a religious or educational institution.
Familiarity with Jewish customs and traditions.
Hebrew language fluency (a plus).

Physical Abilities:

Visual capability to read handwritten or typed documents, display screens, and operate electronic devices, office equipment, and machines.
Able to conduct verbal conversation.
Able to hear normal range verbal conversation (approximately 60 decibels).
Able to sit, stand, stoop, kneel, bend, walk.
Able to climb slopes, stairs, steps, and ladders.
Able to stand for sustained periods of time.
Able to walk for extended periods of time.
Able to lift up to 50 pounds frequently.
Able to carry up to 50 pounds for extended distances and use a golf cart to transport items.
Able to exhibit full range of motion for shoulder external rotation and internal rotation.
Able to exhibit full range of motion for shoulder abduction and adduction.
Able to exhibit full range of motions for shoulder extension and flexion.
Able to exhibit full range of motion for elbow flexion and extension.
Able to exhibit full range of motion for back lateral flexion.
Able to exhibit full range of motion for hip flexion and extension.
Able to exhibit full range of motion for knee flexion.
Able to work in a wide range of weather conditions.

Training Required:

Emergency Preparedness Training
Situational Awareness
De-escalation Training
Internal quarterly training from the counseling office
CPR, First Aid, and AED Certification
Trauma Training
Narcan Training
First Responder Pathfinder Course
Mandated Reporter

Locations:

Washington Hebrew Congregation (Temple): 3935 Macomb Street NW, Washington, DC 20016
Julia Bindeman Suburban Center (satellite location): 11810 Falls Road, Potomac, MD 20854
Memorial Park (cemetery): 1380 Alabama Ave SE, Washington, DC 20032

Washington Hebrew Congregation

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Safety & Security Director