We are seeking an experienced, highly professional Security Guard to join our team in a shelter environment serving vulnerable populations. This role requires far more than a traditional security presence. Successful candidates must possess exceptional crisis intervention skills, strong emotional intelligence, sound judgment, and the ability to maintain safety while working within a trauma-informed framework.
This position is best suited for security professionals who view community safety, protective services, and shelter security as a long-term career path and who are committed to making a meaningful impact in the lives of vulnerable individuals.
Mandatory Qualifications
Applications that do not meet the following requirements will not be considered.
- Valid Security Guard Licence.
- Minimum 1 years of security experience in a shelter, supportive housing, emergency housing, social services, or comparable environment.
- Formal training in Trauma-Informed Care / Trauma-Informed Approach.
- Current Use of Force Certification (Mandatory).
- Current CPR and First Aid Certification (Mandatory).
- Demonstrated experience in crisis intervention, conflict management, and verbal de-escalation.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills.
- Ability to work independently and exercise sound judgment in high-pressure situations.
- Professional report-writing skills with attention to detail.
- Ability to pass all required background screening.
- Ability to work 12-hour shifts, including days, nights, weekends, holidays, and overtime as required.
- Demonstrated ability to maintain professionalism, alertness, and sound judgment throughout extended shifts in a demanding environment.
Assets
Preference may be given to candidates who possess:
- Valid Class G Driver's Licence (or equivalent) with a clean driving record.
- Bilingualism (English/French) or proficiency in additional languages.
- Crisis Intervention Training (CIT).
- Nonviolent Crisis Intervention (NVCI).
- Mental Health First Aid Certification.
- Naloxone administration and overdose response training.
- Experience working alongside social service agencies, healthcare providers, outreach teams, and emergency responders.
- Leadership or supervisory experience within a security environment.
Key Responsibilities
- Maintain a safe, secure, and respectful environment for residents, staff, visitors, and property.
- Apply trauma-informed principles while enforcing site rules, policies, and safety standards.
- Respond effectively to crises involving mental health concerns, substance use, behavioural issues, and interpersonal conflict.
- Utilize advanced verbal de-escalation techniques to resolve incidents safely and professionally.
- Conduct patrols, welfare checks, security inspections, and access control functions.
- Respond to medical emergencies, disturbances, safety hazards, and critical incidents.
- Prepare accurate, detailed, and professional incident reports.
- Collaborate with shelter staff, emergency services, healthcare professionals, and community partners.
- Maintain professionalism, composure, and accountability in all interactions.
The Ideal Candidate
The successful candidate will demonstrate:
- Exceptional professionalism and maturity.
- Strong conflict-resolution and communication skills.
- Confidence and sound decision-making under pressure.
- The ability to balance compassion with accountability.
- Respect for diversity and experience working with vulnerable populations.
- Reliability, integrity, and a strong work ethic.
- A commitment to continuous learning and professional development.
- Dress properly at all times in compliance with the PSISA.
Important Candidate Screening Requirement
This role is intended for individuals seeking a long-term career in security, community safety, or protective services within the social services sector and Applicants who intend to use this position primarily as a temporary stepping stone to a police academy or law enforcement career.
We are seeking professionals who are genuinely committed to shelter security, trauma-informed practice, and supporting vulnerable populations through consistent, long-term service.
What We Are Looking For
We are not simply hiring a guard, we are seeking a professional who can demonstrate leadership, accountability, resilience, and a commitment to excellence. The successful candidate will understand that effective shelter security requires a balance of authority, empathy, professionalism, and strong decision-making.
If you have the experience, certifications, and commitment required to excel in a demanding shelter environment, we invite you to apply. Only candidates meeting the mandatory qualifications will be considered for an interview.
Job Types: Full-time, Part-time, Permanent, Casual, Seasonal
Pay: From $17.60 per hour
Ability to commute/relocate:
- Ottawa, ON: reliably commute or plan to relocate before starting work (preferred)
Education:
- Secondary School (preferred)
Experience:
- Security Guard: 1 year (required)
Language:
Licence/Certification:
- Security Guard Licence (required)
- First Aid/CPR Certification (required)
- Driving Licence (preferred)
- Use of Force (required)
Work Location: In person
