Job Description

The Security & Safety Officer ensures the safety of court users and the protection of court property by developing safety plans, providing and coordinating security training, and safeguarding courthouses. This role requires regional travel to other courthouses and court-related events and includes case processing tasks when not performing security duties.
We are seeking a proven leader with security expertise, strong negotiation skills, and the ability to train and guide staff while ensuring a safe and professional courthouse environment.
This is a full-time, limited-service opening based in Newport, Vermont. The salary range is $22.07 - $34.23 per hour based on the candidate's experience. The limited-service term will end 6/30/2028. The position is a non-exempt Judicial Branch position equivalent to pay grade 19. The State of Vermont's total compensation package features an outstanding set of employee benefits that are worth about 30% of your total compensation.
Benefits

• 80% State paid medical premium and a dental plan at no cost for employees and their families
• Work/Life balance: 13 paid holidays each year and a generous leave plan
• Two ways to save for your retirement: A State defined benefit pension plan and a deferred compensation 457(b) plan
• Tuition Reimbursement
• Flexible spending healthcare and childcare reimbursement accounts
• Low-cost group life insurance
• Incentive-based Wellness Program
• Qualified Employer for Public Service Student Loan Forgiveness Program

Minimum Qualifications
High School Graduation or GED and two (2) or more years workforce experience in a responsible position. Experience in security, law enforcement, safety, de-escalation situations and/or emergency services preferred. Experience in positions requiring attention to detail and customer service also preferred.
Summary of Duties

• Fosters an adequate level of employee awareness of risks in the workplace and encourages timely response to emergencies by facilitating Safety Committee efforts in one or more units regarding the implementation of location safety practices and procedures.
• Coordinates employee risk management communication and training which may include fire drills, slip & fall prevention, de-escalation CPR/AED, first aid, Stop the Bleed, bomb threats procedure, Active Shooter/Active Threat Awareness and other safety content.
• Provides security, under Judiciary use-of-force guidelines, for the judge, staff and persons within the courtroom or courthouse or other designated areas.
• Documents daily shift activities via a computerized security log and a security incident reporting system. May compile reports as needed.
• The job involves the completion of specialized security training and entails the operation of safety and security equipment or various electronic devices.
• In collaboration with other security personnel, carries out security arrangements, evacuation plans and the resolution of emergency situations.
• Performs security checks of the facility inspecting for: lights, heat, air conditioning and locks; visitors intruding in secure area; contraband; courtroom equipment and forms; public postings.
• Checks in persons scheduled for court hearings, explains roles and procedures, directs seating arrangements and conveys information to litigant after hearings.
• Takes temporary custody of prisoners, arranges transport if needed, and releases them to an officer of the appropriate law enforcement agency.
• Is responsible for the security and coordination of the jury while the jury is in the courtroom, is deliberating and if sequestered.
• Serves papers as directed by the judge or court clerks.
• When not performing courtroom security or safety-related duties, will perform court-related case processing tasks as directed using the Judiciary's case management system.
• Assists law enforcement in weapon screening as needed.
• This position is responsible for all duties defined and other duties as assigned such as training other employees.

Scheduled hours of work generally conform to public court hours, but assignments may extend beyond those hours. Occasional travel to other courts within the State of Vermont may be required. Travel will be reimbursed according to State policies. This position will be eligible for longevity increases in accordance with the State step pay plan and annual cost of living increases as enacted by the Vermont State Legislature. Job Code # 25077
The State of Vermont celebrates diversity and is committed to providing an environment of mutual respect and meaningful inclusion that represents a variety of backgrounds, perspectives, and skills in all state government positions. The Judicial Branch is committed to a policy of equal employment opportunity, and the recruitment process is designed to treat all applicants equitably.

Skills Required