Asset Protection Detective

About Vallarta Supermarkets

Vallarta Supermarkets is a proud founder-led grocery chain rooted in authentic Mexican heritage and vibrant Latin culture. What began as a single neighborhood market has grown into one of the fastest-growing supermarket chains in California, bringing fresh foods, traditional flavors, and warm hospitality to the communities we serve. As we continue our rapid expansion, we remain committed to celebrating culture, creating opportunity, and treating every customer and team member with a true sense of belonging.

Vallarta Supermarkets is seeking a highly observant and detail-oriented Asset Protection Detective to support our growing supermarket operations. In this role, you will protect company assets by proactively identifying, investigating, and preventing external theft while ensuring a safe shopping environment for our customers and team members.

This position plays a critical role in reducing shrink, supporting store performance, strengthening operational integrity, and partnering with store leadership and law enforcement to safeguard company resources and enhance the overall customer experience.

Compensation

$23.00 – $26.00 per hour

This is a non-exempt position and is eligible for overtime pay in accordance with California law, including overtime hours worked over 8 in a workday, 40 in a workweek, and double time where applicable.

Position Summary

The Asset Protection Detective is to ensure the safety and security of our premises, assets, team members, and visitors. Walking the premises, investigating suspicious behavior, and enforcing company policies. The position requires traveling to various assigned locations, including Azusa, Baldwin Park, Anaheim, and Los Angeles.

• Investigate suspected shrinkage by employees.
• Following and confronting suspected shoplifters.
• Documenting theft and other security violations.
• Work with law enforcement to arrest and prosecute suspected shoplifters.
• Safely apprehend and detain potential shoplifters.
• Provide court testimony.
• Work closely with both store management and law enforcement agencies. When a shoplifter or employee is caught stealing, the loss prevention agent may be asked to write a supplemental report or a witness statement for police.
• Overserve all shoppers and store associates.
• Work physical security to identify external theft.
• Develop and maintain records of interviews, apprehensions, video copies, and evidence.

Requirements:

• Must have 2-3 years of experience working plain clothes loss prevention or asset protection.
• Must have a valid driver license. Must be able to travel to different locations assigned.
• Must be able to appear in all criminal court hearings and prosecutions.
• You must be able to deal with people who might become emotional or angry when confronted and do your best to diffuse such situations.
• A major component of the job involves watching shoppers, identifying suspicious behaviors and taking appropriate actions.
• You might be called upon to defend yourself and others if a suspected shoplifter becomes violent or resistant upon apprehension.
• Able to work independently.
• Ability to quickly build rapport.
• High energy with a sense of urgency.
• Fluent in English and Spanish a plus.
• Must be able to work in teams.
• Employees may perform other duties as directed. All employees are expected to perform any reasonable task or request that is consistent with fulfilling company goals and objectives

• Basic proficiency in Microsoft Word and Excel
• Working knowledge of email platforms (Outlook or similar)
• Basic computer literacy, including navigating store systems and internal platforms
• Ability to type and complete detailed written reports accurately and efficiently
• Experience using store computer systems and surveillance software
• Comfortable reviewing digital video footage and maintaining electronic case files
• Ability to learn new software and technology systems quickly

Nice to Have (Preferred Qualifications)

• Experience with Agilence (exception-based reporting)
• Experience using GoAudit for compliance and audit reporting
• Familiarity with Zebra devices and shrinkage tracking systems
• Experience with BRDATA systems
• Previous auditing experience
• Experience training team members on loss prevention procedures or compliance standards
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Word and Excel
• Familiarity with store-level computer systems and reporting tools

Physical Requirements

• This position requires prolonged standing and walking (approximately 6–8 hours per shift). Additional physical activities may include:
• Occasional bending, stooping, kneeling, climbing, and reaching
• Light lifting of supplies and materials
• Physical engagement consistent with company policy and applicable law during apprehensions
• Reasonable accommodations will be provided

Work Schedule

• This is a non-exempt hourly position with a variable schedule based on business needs. Schedule may include some afternoons, evenings, and occasional weekends as needed to support store operations and project timelines
• Eligible for meal and rest periods in accordance with California law
• Must be able to work all holidays and weekends
• Travel between store locations may be required; business-related travel will be compensated