Department: Public Services / Safety
Reports To: Public Safety Manager
Locations: Bees Ferry West Ashley and Keith Summey North Charleston
Position Summary:
The Public Safety Associate ensures a safe, welcoming, and inclusive environment for all library patrons and staff. The Associate serves as a visible presence in library facilities, building positive relationships with patrons while enforcing library policies fairly and consistently. This role combines customer service, security awareness, and community engagement to support the library’s mission of providing open access to information and resources.
Responsibilities:
All duties listed below are essential job functions for which reasonable accommodation can be made. All job requirements listed indicate the minimum level of knowledge, skills and/or abilities deemed necessary to perform the job proficiently. This job description is not to be construed as an exhaustive statement of duties, responsibilities, or requirements. Employees may be required to perform any other job-related tasks as requested by the Branch/Department Manager subject to reasonable accommodations.
Essential Roles and Responsibilities:
· Monitor library facilities, grounds, and parking areas to ensure a safe and orderly environment.
· De-escalate conflicts and respond appropriately to disruptive behavior, policy violations, or safety concerns.
· Provide assistance during emergencies, including evacuations, first aid, and coordination with law enforcement or emergency responders.
· Maintain accurate incident reports and security logs.
· Serve as a resource to patrons by offering assistance, information, and wayfinding when appropriate.
· Support staff in enforcing library policies with consistency and professionalism.
· Build rapport with patrons, emphasizing de-escalation and restorative approaches before enforcement.
· Educate patrons on library policies and available resources.
· Act as a liaison between the library, patrons, and community partners to promote safety, trust, and positive library experiences.
· Participate in staff training on safety, crisis response, and conflict resolution.
· Promote the library as a welcoming community hub through respectful, service-oriented interactions.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
· Strong interpersonal and communication skills with a focus on empathy and professionalism.
· Ability to remain calm and make sound decisions in stressful or emergency situations.
· Familiarity with security practices, emergency response procedures, and incident documentation.
· Physical ability to walk, stand, and patrol facilities for extended periods and respond quickly in emergencies.
Qualifications and Requirements:
· High school diploma or equivalent required; some college coursework in criminal justice, social services, or related field preferred.
· Experience in security, law enforcement, social services, or community engagement, customer service preferred.
· Training in de-escalation, conflict mediation, or trauma-informed practices desirable.
· Must be able to work a flexible schedule including evenings and weekends.
· Must possess excellent customer service skills, ability to get along well with others, communicate effectively with the public and library staff and demonstrate a strong work ethic.
Benefits and Compensation:
Charleston County Public Library offers a comprehensive benefits package which includes Health, Dental, Vision and Life Insurance, Paid Vacation and Sick Leave, Paid Holidays, 401k, and a Pension Plan.
$19.21 - $20.39 hourly rate commensurate with education and experience.