Director of Athletics Security and Emergency Operations

Director of Athletics Security And Emergency Operations

USC Athletics is looking to hire a Director of Athletics Security and Emergency Operations to join our staff and student community of 600+ individuals. This role is responsible for ensuring the overall safety and security of the USC Athletic Department, Events and Facilities. This also includes site security for team activities (practices, games, and travel). This role involves developing and implementing emergency operation plans and security protocols, managing security personnel, and coordinating with local law enforcement and venue security teams.

Knowledge of and experience working in higher education preferred. Understanding of the unique culture and needs of college athletes preferred.

This position serves a large student and staff population, must demonstrate a commitment to improving outcomes for a variety of populations, and is expected to contribute to the program's demonstrated commitment to non-discrimination and equal opportunity for all. USC Athletics is committed to non-discrimination and equal opportunity.

Roles and responsibilities to include :

Security Planning and Management :

Develop, implement, and maintain comprehensive security plans / deployments for department activities.

Conduct risk assessments and threat analyses to identify potential security vulnerabilities.

Coordinate with campus DPS, local law enforcement, venue security, and other relevant authorities to ensure a secure environment.

Event Security :

Oversee security operations during games, practices, and other team events.

Manage the security team, including hiring, training, scheduling, and supervising personnel.

Ensure effective crowd management and control measures are in place consistent with NCAA and Big Ten Conference policies.

Establish and implement security operations standard for all home athletic events.

Access Management :

Manage the athletics security and access systems.

Responsible for maintaining all biometric / prox access levels and user management.

Monitor security systems and equipment, including surveillance cameras and access control systems.

Travel Security :

Develop and implement travel security protocols for teams.

Coordinate with transportation providers and hotel management to ensure secure accommodations and travel arrangements.

Emergency Management and Response :

Develop and implement emergency response plans for various scenarios, including medical emergencies, natural disasters, inclement weather and security threats.

Conduct regular training and drills for staff and security personnel.

Act as the primary point of contact during security incidents, ensuring effective communication and coordination with all relevant parties.

Communication and Reporting :

Maintain regular communication with team operations, staff, and external security partners.

Prepare detailed incident reports and security assessments.

Provide regular updates to Associate Athletic Director on security status and any potential issues.

Policy Development and Compliance :

Develop and enforce security policies and procedures.

Ensure compliance with all relevant laws, regulations, and industry standards.

Stay updated on the latest security trends, technologies, and best practices.

Performs other related duties as assigned or requested. The University reserves the right to add or change duties at any time.

Qualifications :

The ideal candidate will possess a minimum of a bachelor's degree (preferably in Criminal Justice, Security Management, or other related field); master's degree preferred. 5-7 years of experience in security management required, preferably in a sports or event management environment. Combined experience / education as substitute for minimum education.

Strong leadership and managerial skills.

Excellent communication and interpersonal abilities.

Ability to remain calm and make quick decisions in high-pressure situations.

Knowledge of security technologies and systems.

Ability to travel extensively and work irregular hours, including evenings and weekends.

Certified Protection Professional (CPP) or similar certification is a plus.

First Aid, CPR / AED certification.

Knowledge of NCAA and Big Ten Conference rules and regulations.

Experience working in higher education and / or a sports related field ideal.

Ability to stand, walk, and sit for extended periods.

Capability to respond quickly to emergency situations.

Valid driver's license required. Position will participate in the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) Pull Notice System. A copy of DMV record will be required as a final condition of employment.

In addition, the successful candidate must also demonstrate, through ideas, words and actions, a strong commitment to USC's Unifying Values.

Salary Range : The annual base salary for this position is $77,500. When extending an offer of employment, the University of Southern California considers factors such as (but not limited to) the scope and responsibilities of the position, the candidate's work experience, education / training, key skills, internal peer alignment, federal, state, and local laws, contractual stipulations, grant funding, as well as external market and organizational considerations.

To Apply : All candidates must submit a resume with their application. Additional materials may be requested at a later date. All USC employees will undergo reference checking and background screening prior to hire.

USC is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, disability, or any other characteristic protected by law or USC policy.

We provide reasonable accommodations to applicants and employees with disabilities. Applicants with questions about access or requiring a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application or hiring process should contact USC Human Resources by phone at (213) 821-8100, or by email at uschr@usc.edu. Inquiries will be treated as confidential to the extent permitted by law.