Forensic Services Officer - Forensic Psychiatric Hospital, BC Mental Health and Substance Use Services – Coquitlam, BC

• Provide safe and secure escort for court remanded and maximum security persons to other facilities, including secure facilities, hospitals and specialists outside of the hospital; assumes custody and transport persons in custody from outside agencies to the hospital; transport and escort persons to video courts, as required; searches all persons in custody prior to escort to ensure the person is not carrying any dangerous items and/or illegal substances to ensure the safety and protection to the public and employees of the other agencies.
• In support of the clinical risk assessment of in-custody patients, consult with clinical staff and other resources to determine the security risk and classification of in custody escorts including determining appropriate security precautions; applies restraining devices such as handcuffs, belts, leg irons and belly chains and/or other restraint devices or techniques as required when providing patient escort and security services; ensures required documentation is available for the escort of persons in custody.
• Respond to and investigate all instances of escape including the search and custody of persons who have escaped the hospital; work with local police in the event of an emergency security breaches and/or patient escapes; maintain building and ground security by incorporating regular patrols, maintaining and monitoring alarm systems, communication systems, safety and emergency equipment; provides staffing training in the use of alarm systems, procedures and selected restraint equipment; ensure only authorized vehicles enter and leave the facility.
• Interact with persons in custody in aggressive and/or volatile situations to diffuse the situation and reduce the escalation of aggression by utilizing appropriate de-escalation and safe non harmful control techniques consistent with existing policies and procedures to secure patients on escort who may become agitated in order to maintain custody and ensure the safety of the public.
• Provide direction to, and maintain custody of patients while in court; exchanges information with outside agencies such as Police, Fire Departments, Coroners Office, Sheriff Detachments and Corrections as appropriate; provides security services for BC Review Board members and other visitors such as court reporters, lawyers and other hospital staff; supports the multi-disciplinary planning and coordination of security plans for the transport of patients with other agencies for all high profile cases.

• Grade 12, plus two (2) years recent related experience in a secure correctional or mental health facility, or an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience.
• Completion of a recognized defensive tactics course including training in the use of force, metal detection, search, and seizure. Occupational First Aid Level 2.
• Eligible for appointment as a Special Provincial Constable. Current CPR certificate and valid BC Class IV Driver's license.

• Ability to exercise sound judgment and effective interpersonal skills including the ability to control and direct hostile/aggressive behaviour of persons in custody.
• Solid understanding of the use of force and applicable legislation as it relates to the able to retrain uncooperative, hostile, or violent persons.
• Physical ability to carry out the duties of the position.
• Awareness of and commitment to learning and understanding the Truth & Reconciliation Commission’s 94 Calls to Action (2015), In Plain Sight Report (2020), BC's Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act (2019), and other related reports
• Commitment to upholding the shared responsibility of creating lasting and meaningful reconciliation in Canada as per TRC (2015) and BC's Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act (2019).
• As a strong asset for consideration, we are looking for our successful candidate to have: Knowledge of social, economic, political and historical realities impacting indigenous communities and familiarity with Indigenous Cultural Safety and anti-racism and accompanying reports (BC DRIPA, TRC, etc.).

• Join one of BC’s largest employers with province-wide programs, services and operations – offering vast opportunities for growth, development, and recognition programs that honour the commitment and contribution of all employees.
• Access to professional development opportunities through our in-house training programs, including +2,000 courses, such as our San’yas Indigenous Cultural Safety Training course, or Core Linx for Leadership roles.
• PHSA is a remote work friendly employer, welcoming flexible work options to support our people (eligibility may vary, depending on position).
• Access to WorkPerks, a premium discount program offering a wide range of local and national discounts on electronics, entertainment, dining, travel, wellness, apparel, and more.

Provincial Health Services Authority