Mental Health America of Los Angeles (MHALA) has been a pioneer in mental health service, advocacy, innovation, and training for nearly a century, working to ensure that people with mental health needs achieve meaningful, healthy lives in their communities.

MHALA is among the largest and most comprehensive nonprofit mental health agencies in Los Angeles County. The agency supports over 19,000 low-income and no-income individuals annually with integrated services. MHALA achieves impact in the areas of mental and physical healthcare, homelessness and housing, supported employment, and wellness and financial services, with special programs for Veterans and transition-age youth.

MHALA also provides training programs for individuals joining the behavioral health workforce and for the larger community around mental health issues.

MHALA works to ensure that its employees are just as cared for as its members. Communication, collaboration, transparency and a healthy work/life balance are core components of the agency culture. Employees are encouraged to engage in self-care and can enjoy a 35-hour workweek.

MHALA fosters diversity at all levels of the organization. The agency promotes a team-oriented culture that offers opportunities for growth. We are proud to offer a competitive salary and full benefits package, including an employee assistance program, and generous paid time off.

Security Ambassador

35 hours per week / $24.00 per hour

(The actual compensation will be determined based on experience and other factors permitted by law.)

Summary: Under direct supervision of the Director of Outreach Services work collaboratively with all MHALA staff to ensure the safety of employees, members, and visitors.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities: This is not an exhaustive task list, and other duties may be assigned as deemed appropriate or necessary by the supervisor or program director.

Reasonable accommodation will be provided to any qualified person with a medical or psychiatric disability, providing it will not change the essential nature of the position, nor cause undue hardship to the Agency’s operations. MHALA is an equal employment opportunity and service provider and will consider individuals with a criminal history.

• Work collaboratively with all MHALA staff to ensure the safety of employees, members, and visitors
• Create a welcoming environment for members, visitors, and staff offering information and a basic orientation to our services
• Secure the drop-in center and waiting areas for members
• Surveil the perimeter of MHALA sites and parking lot areas
• Maintain a constant awareness of premises to prevent possible undesirable incidents
• Call police or fire departments in cases of emergency. Meet First Responders and direct them to the source of the problem and complete incident reports as required
• Collaborate and involve service staff in addressing serious needs that arise outside the building that involve members
• Check and respond to emails daily
• Required to drive to and patrol other MHALA sites
• Provide support to the MHALA Facilities Manager and Accounting Department as needed
• Participates in team meetings, staff meetings, community meetings, and in the day-to-day operations of the program as needed
• Attend ongoing training as directed for professional growth and to effectively meet the needs of members

Other Position Requirements:

• California Certified Basic Security Guard Card required.
• A minimum of one year of previous experience as a security guard preferred
• Knowledge and ability to apply de-escalation techniques and strategies
• Experience working with individuals experiencing mental and physical health issues
• Works well with people with mental disabilities.
• Basic knowledge of computer applications such as Microsoft Word, Excel, and Outlook
• Is able to manage through building relationships, clarifying expectations, and demonstrating respect
• Flexible work schedule to include some evenings or weekends, and on-call cell phone services when necessary
• Driving with a current class C driver’s license, a vehicle for transportation, proof of valid automobile insurance, and the ability to be insured by MHA liability insurance are conditions of employment
• TB clearance and yearly re-testing are conditions of employment
• COVID-19 vaccination is required for this position. Accommodations will be considered with proof of a legal exemption.