Conservation Officer Jobs in Florida (NOW HIRING)

Job Title: Lead Security Officer
Department: Security
Reports To: Head of Security
FLSA Status: Non-exempt
Effective Date: September 2025
White Oak conserves and sustains some of the earth's rarest wild animals through innovative training, research, education, and conservation breeding programs that contribute to the survival of wildlife in nature. The conservation programs span 600 acres along the St. Mary's River in northeast Florida, surrounded by 22,000 acres of mixed forest and wetlands that make up the beautiful White Oak property. Founded in 1982, White Oak leads professional efforts to improve veterinary care, develop holistic animal management techniques, and better understand the biology of critically endangered species by providing excellent care and managing conservation programs for over 30 species of imperiled wildlife in large, naturalistic habitats.
White Oak Mission:
Saving endangered wildlife and habitats through sustainable populations, expanding education initiatives, and responsible land stewardship.
Job Summary:
The Lead Security Officer is responsible for the safety and security of White Oak's owners, guests, staff, collection, and property.
Essential Duties:
o Performs supervisory duties, including hiring, determining subordinate work procedures and schedules, issuing instructions and assigning duties; reviewing work, providing training, coaching and mentorship; addressing performance concerns; and conducting performance reviews.
o Develops, maintains, and manages staff schedules.
o Enforces all company policies and procedures and report all violations to Head of Security.
o Acts as a Dispatcher during emergency situations, and coordinates solutions to same; informs outside agencies of any unusual or suspicious situations on property.
o Controls access into White Oak property by ensuring that all persons are authorized to enter. Maintain accurate access and control logs.
o Conducts safety inspections of buildings and lodges.
o Generates necessary written reports regarding security-related incidents involving guests, associate and/or the facility.
o Maintains a working knowledge of White Oak's facilities, as well as special events on property, in order to advise guests and staff of same, whenever possible.
o Assists Head of Security in monitoring control of department assets, such as fire/safety supplies, patrol/rover truck, and ensure they are properly maintained.
o Assists the Head of Security in conducting property safety inspections relating to hazards and OSHA standards. Coordinate fire safety related inspections including alarm systems, fire extinguishers and hood suppression systems.
o Assists the Head of Security with conducting various safety courses for White Oak employees.
o Maintains safety course data, including courses conducted and department attendees.
o Assists with conducting orientation for White Oak new hire employees.
o Inventories and maintains hurricane panels for security and Human Resources.
o Assists Head of Security in maintaining HAZMAT control, inventory, inspections and reporting.
o Works and/or ensures efficient Front Gate operations, including proper communications at all times with the rover and monitoring of the base station radio.
o When working the Front Gate, provides access control, monitor alarm systems, and provide coordination for emergency response/casualty control when necessary.
o When working at the Front Gate, monitors CCTV of back gate and operate gate remotely as required.
o Coordinates and manages communications with Guest Relations and other departments to ensure guests' needs are met.
o Maintains inventory and control of property keys and assigned equipment.
o Performs as a Roving/Mobile Patrol Officer to include security visibility, building and other property checks/observations, escorting guests, vendors and emergency vehicles, conducting investigations relating to accidents, suspicious or illegal activities.
o When functioning as a patrol/roving officer, conducts patrols, security checks and various tasks assigned to that position with a sense of urgency and detail.
o Responds to emergency situations and acts accordingly as directed by emergency protocols for Security.
o Performs data entry, ensuring accurate departmental logs and incident reports.
o Monitors email, guest relations calendar, arrival/departure schedules and Internet to maintain updated information as needed.
o Ensures that weather and traffic conditions are monitored, and any severe weather warnings are announced to all personnel.
o Performs as an airport driver, shuttle driver if needed.
o Participates on White Oak's Safety committee.
o Ensures safe and engaging experience for WO owners and guests.
o Provides accurate and timely progress reports for related areas of responsibility.
o Performs other duties that are not specifically identified above, but are required to provide a safe, clean, healthy and enjoyable environment WO owners and guests.
o Directly supervises all Security officers. Carries out supervisory responsibilities in accordance with White Oak policies, and all applicable state and federal laws.
The above cited duties and responsibilities describe the general nature and level of work performed by people assigned to the job. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all the duties and responsibilities that an incumbent may be expected or asked to perform.
Education and Work Experience Requirements:
• High School diploma or equivalent.
• Minimum of one year in a supervisory role in security, law enforcement, or military.
• Minimum of two years of security, law enforcement, or military experience.
Knowledge/Skills/Abilities:
• Advanced computer software skills required, including Microsoft Outlook and Excel.
• Ability to work in any position in the Security Department.
• Adequate knowledge of personalized services, principles and processes.
• Excellent problem resolution skills along with outstanding communication and active listening skills.
• Excellent guest and employee relations skills.
• Highly responsible and reliable with a professional presentation; able to lead by example.
• Ability to conduct training courses in a classroom setting.
• Ability to effectively prioritize and delegate
Physical Requirements, Hazards, and Special Working Conditions:
• Must be 21 years of age or older.
• Must be able to work all assigned shifts (days and nights as assigned. There is a .6% differential added to the hourly wage for night shift)
• Must be able to work weekends and holidays.
• Must be able to lift up to 50 pounds regularly.
• Must have valid Florida or Georgia driver's license.
• Shifts are twelve hours in length but may vary.
White Oak Conservation is committed to creating an environment where diverse perspectives are welcome, and to nurturing a culture where everyone feels valued and appreciated. We are proud to be an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to gender, race, color, age, national origin, religion, disability, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity/expression, citizenship, pregnancy or maternity, veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable national, federal, state, or local law.