Bright Star Community Development Corporation (Bright Star CDC)

Position Summary

Security Officers at Bright Star CDC play a critical role in creating a safe, welcoming,

and stable environment for all staff, shelter guests, residents, program participants, and

visitors. Under the direct supervision of the Director of Security, Security Officers

monitor activity across multiple Bright Star CDC sites, enforce policies, respond to

incidents, and ensure that every person who enters our facilities is treated with

professionalism, dignity, and respect.

Key Responsibilities

Patrol & Monitoring

 Conduct scheduled and unscheduled patrols of Bright Star CDC buildings, the

24-hour shelter, grounds, and parking lots.

 Monitor entrances, exits, and restricted areas to ensure safety and prevent

unauthorized access.

 Observe and report suspicious activity, unsafe conditions, or policy violations.

 Operate and monitor security cameras, radios, access control systems, and

alarm systems across all assigned locations.

Access Control & Guest Interaction

 Greet shelter guests, visitors, and staff professionally and respectfully.

 Conduct screening procedures as required by shelter and program protocols.

 Maintain accurate logs, sign-in sheets, and documentation for all persons

entering or exiting the sites.

 Enforce Bright Star CDC policies firmly but compassionately, always prioritizing

safety and trauma-informed care.

Incident Response & Reporting

 Respond promptly to emergencies, disturbances, medical needs, and safety

concerns.

 Use de-escalation strategies to reduce tension and prevent crisis escalation.

 Document incidents thoroughly in written reports and digital systems.

 Coordinate with Chicago Police Department, emergency medical support, or fire

services as needed, following organizational procedures.

Safety, Facility Checks & Compliance

 Perform regular safety checks of fire extinguishers, doors, lighting, stairwells,

exterior spaces, and equipment.

 Report maintenance challenges or facility hazards to appropriate staff.

 Support emergency drills, shelter protocols, evacuation procedures, and winter

contingency operations.

 Ensure all safety and security policies are followed in accordance with Bright Star

CDC’s standards, federal regulations, and City of Chicago shelter guidelines.

Collaboration & Mission Support

 Participate in staff meetings, required trainings, and certification sessions.

 Communicate daily with the Director of Security and site supervisors regarding

concerns, incidents, and recommendations.

 Work collaboratively with shelter staff, case managers, program leaders, and

community partners to ensure a holistic approach to safety.

 Represent Bright Star CDC’s mission and values through professional conduct,

reliability, fairness, and empathy toward all clients.

Qualifications

Education & Experience

 High school diploma or GED required.

 Prior experience in security, shelter settings, community centers, housing

facilities, or human services preferred.

 Experience working with vulnerable populations (homeless individuals, families,

youth, seniors) highly desirable.

Skills & Competencies

 Strong observation and situational awareness.

 Excellent communication, interpersonal skills, and customer service.

 Ability to remain calm, objective, and professional under pressure.

 Strong conflict-resolution and de-escalation skills.

 Ability to write clear, detailed incident reports.

 Basic computer literacy and ability to use digital logs or reporting software.

Physical Requirements

 Ability to stand, walk, patrol, and climb stairs for extended periods.

 Ability to respond quickly during emergencies.

 Ability to lift up to 50 lbs as needed.

Illinois Licensing & Compliance Requirements

All Security Officers at Bright Star CDC must meet state requirements, including:

 A valid PERC (Permanent Employee Registration Card) issued by the Illinois

Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR).

 Completion of required security training hours:

o 20 hours for unarmed officers

o 40 hours for armed officers (plus valid FOID card if carrying a firearm;

Bright Star CDC may specify unarmed-only roles depending on site).

 Successful background check, drug screening and finger printing.

 CPR/First Aid certification (or willingness to obtain within 30 days).

Working Conditions

 Work takes place across multiple Bright Star CDC sites, including the 24-hour

shelter.

 Indoor and outdoor work required in various environmental conditions.

 May involve high-stress or emotionally challenging situations due to the nature of

shelter operations.

 Flexibility to respond to emergency staffing needs or special events.

Pay: $18.00 – $20.00 per hour

Expected hours: 20.0 – 25.0 per week

Work Location: In person