Director of Special Projects and Court Security

SUMMARY:

Under the direction of the Executive Court Administrator manages, organizes and coordinates assigned projects and directs security operations for the Court. Acts as primary point of contact for security activities and incidents that occur at the Court. This position acts in accordance with established Court policies, directives, rules and regulations; with authority to plan and organize procedures, and with accountability for the efficient operation of activities. Employees in this title are expected to maintain a professional appearance and demeanor.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

• Assists with all projects and initiatives as assigned by the Executive Court Administrator or Chief Judge.

• Assists with identification and evaluation of needs and the development and implementation of policies, procedures and programs, making recommendations as appropriate.

• Manages the planning and establishing of security, emergency and safety practices for the bench, staff, litigants, official documents, and equipment for all Court locations.

• Develops and maintains on an annual basis the Court’s written security manual and emergency plan, updates plan and manual, and ensures distribution to court staff, and distributes to Court staff.

• Develops and maintains contact with appropriate federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies and emergency services personnel, i.e. Homeland Security, Michigan State Police, Wayne County Sheriff Department, City of Detroit Police and/or Fire Department.

• Responsible to document and report on all incidents, accidents and medical emergencies.

• Performs assessments on incident management and continuity issues to identify trends and areas of concern.

• Maintains inventory of all security equipment, software and systems.

• Serves as liaison with stakeholders concerning security issues and safety regulations affecting the Court.

• Serves as Court’s primary line of authority to activate emergency security responses, such as evacuation and responding to epidemic/pandemic operational and facility needs.

• Responsible for communicating plans for emergency drills or service interruptions, special events, etc. impacting court operations.

• Responsible for researching, assessing and identifying procurement needs for epidemic and pandemic prevention, preparedness and response.

• Participates on the Court’s Standing Committee on Security and ensures performance of the annual security audit of court facilities and surrounding areas.

• Trains court staff on the Plans; liaison to other organizations to implement and change the Plans.

• Monitor security contractors for performance, writes scope of services for security related request for proposals (RFP) and directs the efficient use of outside security services and other security/safety related vendors.

• Oversees parking assignment for the bench and staff by working with County and parking vendor(s) to manage personnel updates. Responsible for reconciling vendor parking invoices to be approved for processing.

• Oversees the implementation and maintenance of safety and security systems. Responsible for maintaining annual registration with the appropriate state agency.

• Responsible for submitting requisitions for purchase of service and commodities related to projects and security needs.

• Serves as back-up to the Director of Purchasing and Facilities Management.

• Performs other duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS, LICENSES AND CERTIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university with a major in business administration, public administration, management, or closely related field, preferred.

• Three (3) years of supervisory, management experience

• Five (5) years of experience in security management.

• Computerized inventory control background including database proficiency, preferred.

• Experience using MS Office Suite and relevant software and systems.

• Experience commensurate with the job that demonstrates the required skills and competencies may be considered in lieu of education requirement(s).

• If an employee drives on behalf of the Court, the employee must possess and maintain a valid Michigan driver’s license, no fault insurance and access to a vehicle to use in the performance of assigned duties.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:

• Exceptional customer service in explaining Court procedures to internal and external contacts.

• Maintain professional, courteous relationships with colleagues, officials, and the public.

• Handle public inquiries/problems effectively, seeking assistance when necessary.

• Lead teams and work independently.

• Advise and consult staff and supervisors on difficult/unusual problems.

• Provide relevant training and consultation.

• Manage time effectively, meeting simultaneous deadlines set by various agencies and Court departments.

• Multitask and operate standard office equipment.

• Respond to workplace dynamics in a timely, proactive, and visionary manner.

• Deal calmly and effectively in high-stress situations.

• Apply logic and reasoning to evaluate alternative solutions and approaches to problems.

• Thorough knowledge of Michigan Court Security Guidelines, Michigan Trial Court Guidelines for Court Continuity of Operations Plan (COOP) and Court processes and procedures.

• Proven ability to exercise sound judgment and maintain confidentiality.

• Ability to work with a diverse population.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Must be able to lift 25 lbs.

Additional Requirements:

• Successful completion of criminal and IV-D background check, fingerprinting and rechecks.

• Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the U.S.

The above statements describe the general nature and level of work performed by employees assigned to the title. Incumbents may be required to perform job-related responsibilities and tasks other than those stated in this description. Specific job duties vary from position to position.

Grant funded positions are contingent on availability of grant funding and may be terminated should funding substantially reduce or cease. The affected employee may be considered as a candidate for other vacant positions within the Court for which they are qualified.