Homeless Outreach and Public Safety Officer

Description

The Homeless Outreach and Public Safety team plays a critical role in supporting Downtown Dallas Inc. (DDI) and the Downtown Public Improvement District by helping maintain a safe, welcoming, and service-oriented environment for residents, workers, visitors, businesses, and individuals experiencing homelessness. This position provides visible patrol coverage, supports public safety initiatives, observes and reports quality-of-life and safety concerns, and works collaboratively with law enforcement, homeless outreach providers, behavioral health partners, shelters, city agencies, and DDI stakeholders to connect individuals to appropriate resources and support district operations.

Homeless Outreach Responsibilities

· Conduct proactive engagement with individuals experiencing homelessness throughout Downtown Dallas, document relevant observations and needs, and serve as a bridge to the DDI Homeless Outreach Team to ensure connection to case management, housing resources, and other appropriate support services.

· Record and maintain accurate data on all outreach engagements using the mobile tracking system.

· Refer individuals to appropriate community resources and support services based on their needs.

· Build trust with individuals experiencing homelessness, understand their needs, and apply a Housing First approach to outreach and service connections.

· Attend monthly outreach meetings as directed.

· Coordinate with homeless outreach providers, behavioral health partners, shelters, and city agencies.

· Assist in identifying individuals who may qualify for housing, treatment, benefits, or other supportive services.

· Document recurring quality-of-life concerns and provide trend information to leadership.

· Support multidisciplinary outreach efforts involving law enforcement, outreach providers, and healthcare professionals.

Public Safety Responsibilities:

· Provide a highly visible uniformed presence by patrolling designated areas on bicycle or foot to enhance security and public safety perception.

· Deliver excellent customer service to citizens, visitors, and businesses by answering questions, providing directions, and addressing concerns.

· Engage with individuals to resolve quality-of-life issues while ensuring compliance with local ordinances and safety regulations.

· Support the Dallas Police Department (DPD) by assisting in identifying suspects and addressing criminal activity when required.

· Observe, document, and report suspicious, criminal, or hazardous activities.

· Serve as a liaison between DDI stakeholders and public safety agencies.

· Assist with de-escalation efforts involving disruptive or vulnerable individuals.

· Maintain situational awareness of emerging public safety concerns within the district.

Additional Public Safety Responsibilities:

· Monitor and report equipment failures, including streetlights, traffic signals, signage, and pedestrian amenities.

· Provide emergency response assistance, including administering first aid and assisting in crises when necessary.

· Monitor high-risk and high-traffic pedestrian areas to deter crime and improve public safety.

· Assist with security and logistics for special events hosted within the Downtown Dallas area.

· Always represent Downtown Dallas Inc. (DDI) and the Downtown Public Improvement District professionally, whether on the job, attending meetings, or working special events.

· Complete daily activity reports and incident documentation as required by the shift supervisor.

· Utilize Microsoft Office applications, mobile reporting systems, GPS-enabled applications, case management databases, and other technologies required for reporting, documentation, communication, and service coordination.

· Effectively operate a two-way radio using 10-codes for secure communication.

· Stay up to date on City of Dallas codes and ordinances relevant to security and public safety.

· Perform other duties as assigned.

Requirements

Preferred Qualifications:

· Four (4) years of security experience, preferably in patrolling property or responding to calls for service.

· Prior military or law enforcement experience is strongly encouraged.

· Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.

· Ability to work independently and collaboratively as part of a team.

Minimum Requirements:

· Must be at least 21 years of age.

· Possess a valid Texas driver's license and maintain an acceptable driving record.

· Ability to obtain a Texas Level II Security License within a specified timeframe.

· Pass pre-employment drug screening and background check

· Ability to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing.

· Basic computer proficiency.

· Availability to work early mornings, nights, weekends, and holidays as required.

Education and Experience:

· High school diploma or GED required. An associate degree or higher in criminal justice, social work, public administration, psychology, human services, or a related field is preferred.

· Experience in security, law enforcement, military service, social services, homeless outreach, behavioral health, community engagement, or a related field is preferred.

· Bilingual proficiency in English and Spanish is preferred.

Preferred Certifications:

· Texas Level II Security License.

· First Aid/CPR/AED Certification.

· Mental Health First Aid Certification.

· Crisis Intervention Training (CIT).

· Bilingual proficiency in English and Spanish preferred.

Core Competencies:

· Customer service ·

· Communication skills

· De-escalation and conflict resolution

· Community engagement

· Crisis intervention

· Observation and reporting

· Problem-solving

· Teamwork

· Professionalism and integrity

· Cultural awareness and sensitivity

Physical Requirements:

· Ability to walk, stand, and patrol for extended periods during shifts.

· Ability to ride a bicycle for prolonged periods.

· Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions.

· Ability to lift and carry up to 25 pounds.

· Ability to respond quickly to emergencies.

· Ability to safely operate assigned vehicles, bicycles, or other equipment.

Working Conditions:

· Position primarily operates outdoors in an urban environment.

· Frequent interaction with individuals experiencing homelessness, mental illness, substance use disorders, or crises.

· Exposure to varying weather conditions and high-pedestrian-traffic areas.

· Work schedules may include evenings, weekends, holidays, and special events.

Equal Opportunity Statement:

Downtown Dallas Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to creating an inclusive workplace. Employment decisions are based on qualifications, merit, and organizational needs.