PEACE OFFICER

The New York City Department of Homeless Services (DHS) is the largest organization in the United States dedicated to preventing and addressing homelessness. In partnership with other City agencies and nonprofit organizations, DHS works to prevent homelessness before it begins, reduce street homelessness, provide temporary shelter, and connect individuals and families to stable housing all with a focus on accountability, empathy, and equity.

DHS is committed to continuous improvement and employs innovative strategies to deliver high-quality services that support a swift transition from shelter to self-sufficiency. The agency manages hundreds of facilities and operates with a large team as well as a several billion-dollar budget to meet the diverse needs of New Yorkers experiencing homelessness.

The Shelter Security Management team is responsible for establishing and maintaining safety across DHS facilities. Building on existing strategies, the team works to strengthen security while improving connections between New Yorkers experiencing homelessness and essential services, shelter, and housing. This effort is guided by a trauma-informed approach to site management and security, alongside ongoing evaluation using data to measure effectiveness and progress toward overall security goals.

The Department of Homeless Services is seeking to hire thirty (30) Special Officers to function as Peace Officers within the Shelter Security Management Unit who will:

• Patrol assigned buildings, facilities, and surrounding areas to maintain order and ensure public safety.
• Screen clients and visitors; provide routine information and directions.
• Monitor and control access to facilities using electronic security systems, including CCTV and access control technology.
• Operate and monitor security and safety equipment, including x-ray machines, magnetometers, and handheld wands.
• Observe, investigate, and report security incidents, hazards, and unusual occurrences.
• Prepare written reports, maintain logbooks, and record daily activities in memo books.
• Enforce laws and facility rules; issue summonses and make arrests when appropriate.
• Escort and transport persons in custody; prepare arrest documentation and testify in court as required.
• Respond to emergencies; provide first aid and administer naloxone when necessary.
• Identify and report safety and fire hazards and coordinate with Fire Safety Directors.
• Safeguard and maintain accountability for assigned equipment and property.
• Operate a motor vehicle in the performance of duties, when required.
• Attend and successfully complete all required training in accordance with State and Agency mandate

Special Officers are required to work a variety of shifts, including nights, weekends (Saturdays and Sundays), and holidays.

This role involves significant physical activity and exposure to a range of environmental conditions. Duties may include working outdoors in all types of weather; walking or standing for extended periods within an assigned area; and operating or remaining seated in a patrol vehicle while maintaining a high level of alertness.

Officers may be required to pursue fleeing suspects, climb stairs, and assist in carrying injured individuals. Responsibilities also include physically restraining individuals using appropriate techniques, such as applying handcuffs, and maintaining control to prevent escape. This role may involve engaging in physical confrontations to subdue resisting individuals.

Additional demands include detecting odors such as smoke or gas leaks; remaining physically active for prolonged periods; and effectively understanding verbal communication over radios in noisy environments. Officers must also be able to read and write in low-light conditions and carry or wear heavy equipment, including a bullet-resistant vest.

This description is intended to provide a general overview of the position and does not encompass all duties and responsibilities.

Hours/Schedule: Varies

SPECIAL OFFICER - 70810

• A four-year high school diploma or its educational equivalent approved by a state's department of education or a recognized accrediting organization; and
• Individuals serving in this title are designated as Peace Officers by the New York State Criminal Procedure Law. Therefore, all candidates must be qualified to serve as Peace Officers. Incumbents must satisfy the training requirements established by the State of New York for Peace Officers and obtain certification. Once obtained, this certification must be maintained for the duration of employment.