Security Operations Specialist

Job Description

Job Description

Classification: Full-time, Non-Exempt
Reports to: Sr. Security Operations Specialist
Location: Manhattan/Bronx, NY (with travel across Lantern sites)
Schedule: Tuesday – Saturday, 4:00 PM – 12:00 AM

Who We Are
Lantern Community Services helps New Yorkers impacted by homelessness move from surviving to thriving by pairing safe, supportive housing with wraparound services that build lasting stability and independence. Lantern was recognized as a Top 2025 Workplace by City & State New York.

About the Role
The Security Operations Specialist supports the safety, security, and operational integrity of Lantern Community Services’ supportive housing portfolio. Reporting to the Sr. Security Operations Specialist, this role oversees security operations across multiple sites, including access control, incident response, reporting, and follow-up. The Security Operations Specialist works closely with program leadership, property management, and contracted security vendors to ensure buildings operate safely and efficiently. This position plays a key role in improving the quality of life for tenants and staff by maintaining strong safety protocols, providing training and coaching to site teams, and ensuring consistent operational standards across the housing portfolio.

Essential Functions

• Oversee training of contracted security vendor staff on Lantern Community Services’ supportive housing operations protocols and procedures.
• Provide on-site support and oversight at various residential sites based on operational needs and changing priorities.
• Assess the effectiveness of site-specific security practices and develop solutions to address areas of concern.
• Troubleshoot operational issues and provide temporary support when security staff are late or unavailable.
• Collaborate with the Vice President of Operations to assess, develop, and implement portfolio-wide security strategies and operational systems.
• Work with leadership and security vendors to develop, update, and maintain site-specific security post orders.
• Train and support security staff in incident documentation, reporting, and follow-up procedures.
• Ensure staff and security teams are trained on safety protocols, including fire safety and evacuation plans, active shooter protocols, panic button systems, and communication tools such as walkie-talkies.
• Review security camera footage and respond verbally and in writing to security incidents and outcomes.
• Provide coaching and operational guidance to both Lantern staff and contracted security personnel.
• Collaborate with Property Management to ensure security stations and equipment are functioning properly.
• Work with Operations leadership, IT, and Property Management to evaluate and improve security-related technology systems.
• Participate in and support the organization’s Safety Committee.
• Participate in regular coordination meetings with program leadership and contracted security vendors.

Required Education and Experience

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Minimum of five (5) years of experience in security, operations, or facilities management.
• Experience working in supportive housing, shelter environments, or similar human services settings required.
• Experience working with vulnerable or special needs populations preferred.
• Strong understanding of security operations, access control procedures, and safety protocols.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively with staff at all levels.
• Strong organizational, time management, and prioritization skills.
• Knowledge of health, safety, and environmental regulations.
• Strong computer and systems proficiency.
• Ability to manage projects, meet deadlines, and coordinate across multiple sites.

Work Environment: This position operates in both office and field settings. The role requires frequent travel to supportive housing sites and other locations throughout New York City as needed.

Physical Demands: While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to stand, walk, sit, stoop, climb stairs, and/or kneel. Occasionally, the employee may lift and/or move up to 10 pounds.

Note: Lantern Community Services provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment. Lantern values the diversity of our clients, staff, Board of Directors, and partners. By bringing diverse individuals and viewpoints together, we create more vibrant, healthy, and just communities. Lantern welcomes individuals of all backgrounds and experiences regardless of race, ethnicity, national origin, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, marital status, political belief, pregnancy, religion, immigration status, veteran status, class, creed, mental or physical disability, and any other characteristic protected by federal, state, and local law.