Security Protective Force Officer

Description

The Protective Force Officer (PFO) plays a vital role in the NREL community, focusing on the detection, deterrence, and prevention of threats and hazards to maintain a safe and supportive work environment. This position resides within the Laboratory Protection (LP) Operations group at NREL.

NREL operates as a free-flow campus, welcoming staff and visitors to its facilities. While non-armed, PFOs employ de-escalation strategies to mitigate threats, ensure safety, and respond professionally to emergencies and incidents. Using a customer-focused approach, they oversee the recovery and reconstitution of normal operations. PFOs provide campus security and emergency preparedness services in alignment with applicable laws, Department of Energy (DOE) requirements, and NREL’s contractual obligations.

For insight of what it would be like to be a part of the Laboratory Protection team, click .

Laboratory Protection operates three shifts:

• SHIFT 1: 11:00 PM – 7:30 AM (Night Shift)
• SHIFT 2: 7:00 AM – 3:30 PM (Day Shift)
• SHIFT 3: 3:00 PM – 11:30 PM (Swing / Evening Shift)

Shift assignment will be determined based on team needs. This position is eligible for overtime and training opportunities.

• Security & Patrol Operations: Conduct regular patrols to maintain campus safety and deter unauthorized activities.
• Monitor and control ingress / egress of vehicles, personnel, and property.
• Respond promptly to alarms, infractions, and emergencies, assessing situations and collaborating with subject matter experts.
• Enforce lab security procedures, federal laws, DOE orders, and departmental policies.
• Ensure facilities are secured using key and equipment controls for locks, doors, windows, and access areas.

• Assist Central Monitoring Stations (CMS) operators as needed to dispatch emergency protocols (e.g., fire / gas alarms, medical incidents).
• Receive and / or relay emergency directives via radio or telephone communication systems.
• Leverage first aid certifications (First Aid / AED / CPR), FEMA / NIMS incident command methods and follow emergency management during emergencies.
• Respond to life safety alarms via Emergency Notification System (ENS) sheets and SOPs.

• Operate CCTV systems for situational awareness and incident response as needed.
• Document and maintain proper accountability for tools and keys.

• Submit detailed reports concerning incidents, observations, and shift activities.
• Perform effectively as part of a team, ensuring respect and professionalism.
• Provide support to NREL staff, visitors, guests, and external agencies as needed.

• Facilitate access control at NREL via badge checks, vehicle inspections, and hosting protocols for visitors and foreign nationals.
• Conduct periodic vehicle and foot patrols for observation and reporting.
• Maintain certifications and qualifications, including Red Cross and FEMA training.
• Support overall Laboratory Protection mission objectives through additional duties as assigned.

• Medical evaluation and behavioral health screening, as required by 10 CFR Part 1046.
• A pre-employment background investigation, which may include:
  Social Security trace;
  Sex offender registry check;
  Federal and state criminal background checks;
  Motor vehicle record verification;
  Educational verification;
  Drug screening.
• Obtaining credentials in accordance with Homeland Security Presidential Directive 12, which requires additional National Agency Checks with Indices background investigation and fingerprinting.
• Proof of a valid and current motor vehicle operator’s license.

Basic Qualifications

High School Diploma or equivalent and 1 or more years of experience or equivalent relevant education/experience. Or a relevant Associate’s Degree or certification program of comparable scope or equivalent relevant education/experience. Considerable knowledge of the job. Substantial understanding of general aspects of the job with a broad understanding of the detailed aspects of the job. Intermediate skills in applicable software packages and office…