Deputy Chief Security Officer

Deputy Chief Security Officer

The Deputy Chief Security Officer oversees shipboard security operations, access control, gangway security, training, equipment maintenance, and incident response; supports ISM/ISO, SQM, USPH, Environmental and Safety policies.

Essential duties & responsibilities

• Monitor all access points to the vessel and supervise gangway security staff to implement the Ship Security Plan per SQM Security Manual and guidance from Security Officer.
• Be at the gangway whenever possible or as directed.
• Understand the Safety & Quality Management Program and the Emergency Plan and Station Bill responsibilities within the Safety Organization.
• Possess thorough knowledge of the Master’s Rules & Regulations, company policies, and the Security Manual.
• Be familiar with all duties related to security practices and gangway security.
• Conduct shipboard security training as directed by the Chief Security Officer.
• Operate and maintain all security equipment as directed.
• Promote good order and conduct throughout the vessel.
• Conduct frequent security inspections of the vessel.
• Be on call to assist the Security team in cooperation with the Chief Security Officer.
• Ensure good cooperation and hand-over with other Security Officers/supervisors regarding incidents, follow-ups, and gangway operations.
• Preserve safety for guests, crewmembers, and the vessel through observations.
• During security rounds, stay alert, follow procedures, assess incidents, and act until help arrives.
• Inform the Chief Security Officer immediately of any incident.
• Be ready to take emergency action in any situation.
• Serve as an additional spotter around the vessel for any problems involving guests, crewmembers, or ship operations.
• Immediately report unusual incidents or situations and any abuse of ship’s property or regulations.
• Maintain a thorough understanding of the ISPS code, Security Manual of SQM, Ship’s Security Plan, and Port Facility Security Plans at relevant ports of call.

Financial responsibilities

• Manage budget, expenses, and achievement of revenue targets.
• Contain costs through proper use, handling, and maintenance of records, reports, supplies, and equipment.

Leadership skills

• Attracts and Develops Talent: Sets expectations, provides honest and ongoing feedback, takes action to improve performance; develops and conducts shipboard training programs on injury prevention policies and procedures.
• Acts with Integrity: Demonstrates role-model behavior, builds trust and mutual respect, and addresses challenges transparently with factual evidence.
• Harnesses the Power of Enterprise Team Performance: Acts as a liaison with shoreside departments (Risk Management, Marine Operations, Hotel Operations) and provides feedback on injury reduction and investigation initiatives.

QUALIFICATIONS AND EDUCATION

Hiring requirements

• Highly skilled manager with security experience and ability to lead a dynamic security operation in a leisure environment; strong leadership, organizational, and communication skills (oral and written).
• Extensive experience in at least one of: Army/Maritime/Aviation/Police or Hotel Security, with ability to work in a multicultural environment.
• Education/experience in counter-terrorism and physical security, including:
• Access control, anti-terrorist countermeasures, security screening methods and equipment operation (x-ray, metal detector, explosives/narcotics detection)
• Interpersonal skills including conflict resolution
• Incident command, first responder, scene and evidence preservation, investigation, interview, and documentation
• Detention and physical search procedures
• Knowledge of civil and criminal law related to security
• Demonstrated ability to protect assets, manage crises and emergencies, plan and respond, and organize investigations.
• Strong managerial and organizational skills, literacy, and computer knowledge (Excel, Word, etc.).
• Willingness to follow policy to immediately notify the CSO and Miami personnel of situations affecting port security; basic awareness of minor criminal activity.
• Knowledge of security equipment and training on security and anti-terrorist matters.
• Ability to communicate tactfully and effectively with guests, department heads, and crewmembers; knowledge of security policies and practices.
• Working knowledge of computers and various software packages (Excel, Word, or related programs).
• STCW Certificate as required by the position.

Language requirements

• Ability to speak English clearly, distinctly, and cordially with guests.
• Ability to read and write English to understand and interpret procedures; ability to give/receive written and verbal instructions and respond to questions.
• Ability to speak additional languages such as Spanish, French, or German is preferred.

Physical requirements

• Regularly stand, walk, use hands, reach, talk or hear, and taste or smell.
• Frequently lift/move up to 50 pounds.
• Good health required for extensive ship-to-ship travel, varying accommodations, and emergency procedures.
• Must be physically able to participate in emergency life-saving procedures and drills; full use of arms/legs and all senses required; able to assist in lowering lifeboats if needed.