Security Guard 2

Our vision is to ensure that "Washington state's children and youth grow up safe and healthy— thriving physically, emotionally, and academically, nurtured by family and community."

Job Title: Security Guard 2 (SG2)

Location: Centralia (Aspire House)

Closes: 12/2/25

Salary: $4119- $5531 Monthly

We're looking for a Security Guard 2 (SG2) to join our team at the Centralia (Aspire House) Placement Exception Facility. Placement Exception Facilities provide short-term living options for foster youth, aged 13 to 18, who require supervision and do not currently have a placement. If you have a passion for leadership and making a difference in your community, apply today.

Click here to learn more about DCYF.

The Opportunity:

Within DCYF, the Security Staff are responsible for ensuring the overall security of the facility and providing intervention for youth when necessary. They also ensure appropriate supervision within the facility and may be charged with fire safety protocols. Security staff do not count towards staffing ratios but are a critical part of maintaining safety and security. This position will require the use of strong assessment and engagement skills to support youth with complex mental health, developmental, and behavioral needs through a trauma-informed lens. This position requires the ability to manage crises calmly and demonstrate de-escalation skills. In the event of staff shortages at other facilities, this position may be required to use a state vehicle to travel to other Placement Exception Facilities.

Some of what you'll do:

• Ensure the safety and security of youth and staff.
• Patrol buildings and grounds on foot and/or vehicle.
• Control access to buildings.
• Enforce safety and security policies.
• Maintain accurate and detailed records of daily activities, incidents, and security-related issues.
• Prepare written reports for management regarding security breaches, disturbances, or other notable occurrences.
• Ensure the safety of staff while working with youth with complex mental health, developmental, and behavioral needs.

What we're looking for (Required Qualifications) :

One year of experience as a Security Guard 1.
OR
Two years of experience in areas of work such as security guard, correctional officer or store investigations, police officer, police reserve officer, military police, or other law enforcement work. A certificate of completion in a state-certified basic law enforcement training program or completion of a police or reserve police academy or military training program will substitute for 1 of the required 2 years of experience.
OR
Equivalent education and experience totaling two years in areas of work such as: security guard, correctional officer, store investigations, police officer, police reserve officer, military police, or other law enforcement work.

AND

• The ability to take action to learn and grow.
• The ability to take action to meet the needs of others.

Preferred/Desired Qualifications:

• Previously demonstrated work with youth.
• Previously demonstrated excellent de-escalation skills

How do I apply? Complete your applicant profile and attach the following:

• Resume
• Cover Letter
• Transcripts, if applicable to qualifications (Unofficial copies are acceptable for application submission.)

Supplemental Information:

The Department of Children, Youth, and Families (DCYF) is committed to Washington's children and youth growing up safe, healthy, and thriving. We invite all candidates to join us in our mission to create a diverse and equitable workplace that reflects the communities we serve. If you are excited about this role but you believe that your education and/or experience might not align perfectly with every qualification in the job posting, we encourage you to apply anyway.

The Department of Children, Youth, and Families (DCYF) is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of age, sex, marital status, sexual orientation, race, creed, color, national origin, honorably discharged veteran or military status, or the presence of any sensory, mental, or physical disability or the use of a trained service animal by a person with a disability.

Prior to a new hire, a background check including criminal history will be conducted. Information from the background check will not necessarily preclude employment but will be considered in determining the applicant's suitability and competence to perform in the position.

This recruitment may be used to fill multiple vacancies.

This position is included in the supervisory bargaining unit represented by the Washington Federation of State Employees (WFSE). For more information:

This position requires a minimum of at least two years of driving experience and a valid driver's license.

The incumbent must successfully complete formal training courses as required by law, policy, and regional requirements within one year of their appointment.

Degrees must be obtained from an accredited college or university whose accreditation is recognized by the U.S. Department of Education and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA), or a foreign equivalent verified by a NACES-approved organization at Foreign Equivalency certification must be attached to the application for degrees obtained outside the U.S.

Applicants who meet the minimum qualifications and wish to claim Veteran's Preference MUST attach a copy of their DD214 or NGB Form 22, or other verification of military service. Please blackout (redact) the social security number before attaching any documents. For additional information on Veteran's Preference and guidance on how to determine if you are eligible, click here.

For more information about this position or if you need an accommodation throughout the application/interview process, please contact DCYF recruiter. If you're experiencing technical difficulties creating, accessing or completing your application, call NEOGOV toll-free at or email needing accommodation in the application process or this announcement in an alternative format may call the Telecommunications Device for the Deaf (TDD) at

08676