Private Armed Security Officer

Background
Kahal Kadosh Beth Elohim (KKBE) is a historic Jewish congregation founded in 1749 in Charleston, South Carolina. The sanctuary building, erected in 1840, is a National Historic Landmark and the oldest synagogue structure in continuous use in the United States. KKBE serves an engaged congregational community and welcomes thousands of heritage tourists and visitors annually. The organization is soliciting proposals for professional armed security services to protect its congregants, staff, volunteers, visitors, and historic facilities. Security services at KKBE are funded in part through Federal Grants, and this procurement adheres to applicable federal and state grant procurement requirements.

Work Details
The selected vendor will provide uniformed, armed security officer services at KKBE’s main campus as well as offsite events. The scope of services includes:

1. **Weekday and Sunday Operations:** Security Officers will be stationed at the Security Station adjacent to the Lobby entrance, greet visitors, inspect bags before entry, monitor lobby activity, respond to emergencies, and alert KKBE representatives when necessary.

2. **Religious Services:** Officers will observe persons approaching during Shabbat and other religious services, maintain closed lobby doors throughout services, conduct bag inspections, deny entry to those who refuse inspection, and monitor safe departures of congregants.

3. **Special Events:** Coverage schedules may need adjustment for special programs or High Holiday services; pricing for additional personnel should be discussed as needed.

4. **Equipment:** KKBE will provide a panic button for police dispatch and a two-way radio; the vendor must provide an electronic wand for bag screening and an agency-issued firearm.

5. **Incident Reporting:** Officers must report unusual incidents to KKBE contacts with written reports provided for each occurrence.

Period of Performance
The contract is expected to start on August 1, 2026.

Place of Performance
The primary location for performance is Kahal Kadosh Beth Elohim's main campus at 90 Hasell Street, Charleston, South Carolina 29403.

Bidder Requirements
Vendors must be licensed to operate as a security services company in South Carolina with a minimum of three years' experience providing security services to nonprofit or similar clients. They must provide certificates of insurance including general liability and workers’ compensation along with references from at least two current or recent institutional clients. Security Officers must hold all required certifications under South Carolina law and be trained to carry firearms.