Security Agent (ASA)

Respond to unusual or emergency situations rapidly, utilizing effective judgment and the appropriate level of escalation of force up to and including armed response by following established protocols. Assists in the protection of the Company’s employees, contractors and visitors by safeguarding the physical premises. Coordinates response with Global Security management and/or local law enforcement. 

Principal Accountabilities:

• Work in environments and under conditions that require carrying authorized weapons and ammunition, and the use of protective gear and devices.
• Respond to the presence of an active shooter by immediately confronting the individual and using lethal force, if necessary, to prevent or cut short an attempted mass shooting.
• Subdue violent or potentially violent individuals.
• Respond to life threatening or emergency situations based on established policies and procedures.
• Knowledge of emergency first aid/CPR/AED - while waiting for arrival of emergency services personnel.
• Work under occasional tension or pressure.
• Work alone while armed.
• Prevent unauthorized persons from entering American Express facilities utilizing access control methods and devices (may include x-ray machine, magnetometers, hand-held scanners, database and printed listings).
• Provide access for approved staff (employees, guests, contractors, consultants and/or temporary employees) utilizing the above methods and devices.
• Inspect packages, bags, mail and parcels entering the facility through the use of x-ray and screening technology (if applicable) to prevent explosive or hazardous material from entering the facility.
• When assigned, perform roving patrols, and initiate proper notification of hazards and malfunctioning equipment. Visually check I.D. badges to ensure only authorized personnel are within American Express facilities.
• Patrol on foot and/or vehicle (depending on location) to detect or prevent unauthorized entry. Frequent and prolonged walking, standing, sitting, and/or stooping.
• Communicate via radio, telephone or orally with local Global Security Management to report incidents/emergencies/potential safety situations.
• Be alert for potential security, property or safety concerns and initiate appropriate actions including notification to Global Security management and/or local law enforcement.
• Must be physically able to restrain suspicious person(s)/trespassers in lieu of armed force if possible.
• Prepares reports of incidents/resulting actions and records in Global Security (SWORD) database.

Breadth of Responsibility:

• Position is responsible for assisting in the safety and protection of American Express employees, contractors, visitors and customers on company premises. During emergency situations, must be able to respond quickly and decisively while ensuring that all policies and procedures are followed to ensure the safety of others. Must remain alert for any irregularities, safety hazards, premise breaches or emergency situations and report to Global Security management for resolution.

Autonomy/Problem Solving & Decision Making:

• Due to the sensitivity of working with personnel during emergency situations, ASA must be fully aware of all company/department/local law enforcement procedures for evacuations and act accordingly, sometimes on a split-second notice. Must be comfortable approaching suspicious persons to inquire into their business on the premises and following policies/procedures as defined by the situation. Communicate effectively with Global Security management the nature/details of any emergency and make “on the spot” recommendations for action.

• Must be legally authorized to carry a firearm under H.R. 218, the “Law Enforcement Officers’ Safety Act” (LEOSA).
• Law enforcement experience required.
• Proficiency in firearms usage and safety is required.
• Must be able to meet or exceed minimum proficiency and safety standards for firearms. Must meet all applicable state, county, city and local municipality licensing and permit requirements for an armed Security Officer.
• Must successfully complete an annual firearms requalification course at a Global Security approved firing range.
• Knowledge of discrete defense tactics.
• American Express encourages employees to maintain an ongoing and regular program of physical fitness.
• Must satisfactorily pass initial and random drug testing.
• Must satisfactorily pass initial psychological testing.
• A comprehensive background investigation will be conducted to determine if applicant has been convicted of any “Domestic Violence Act”, or in violation of Federal Law, State Law or the Lautenberg Amendment, and therefore not be eligible for employment.
• Disqualifying factors include conviction of a felony; or a crime of violence; or domestic violence; or a crime involving a minor; or driving while intoxicated or reckless driving within the past three years; or a controlled substance violation (except those disallowed for consideration by law) or falsification of information provided by applicant, background investigation.
• Strong interpersonal skills to handle emergency situations. Approaches others in a tactful manner no matter how stressful the situation. Treats others with respect and consideration regardless of their status or position.
• Some familiarity/knowledge of access control systems, alarm systems and CCTV and their functions.
• Ability/knowledge to access company software (Microsoft Office Suite) to input incident reports into Global Security database.
• Must be able to work flexible hours to include weekends and holidays if needed for special events, weather-related emergencies, etc.

Employment eligibility to work with American Express in the United States is required as the company will not pursue visa sponsorship for these positions.