Job Spotlight: Security Officer 

From welcoming guests and assisting drivers to supporting operations during challenging moments, Theresa has spent 20 years making a difference as a Publix Security Officer. Her career at Publix has been shaped by a commitment to service and a genuine desire to help others.

Since joining Publix in 2006, Theresa has learned that security is about much more than people might expect.

“Forget what you see on TV,” she said. “Publix Security is a multipurpose role.”

Theresa helps oversee incoming and outgoing shipments, supports food defense efforts, and assists truck drivers, vendors, guests, and associates. She is often the first person people meet when arriving at a Publix facility and someone many associates turn to for help.

“When unexpected situations arise, we are the first responders before the first responders can respond,” Theresa said. “Our role is to provide support and remain calm.” 

As a former military police officer, Theresa believes patience and compassion are essential in her role. Knowing many drivers spend long periods away from home and face challenges on the road, she makes it a point to greet each person with a smile. Over the years, those small interactions have become one of her proudest accomplishments.

“When they tell me, ‘Your smile uplifts us,’ that means everything to me,” she said. “My goal in life is to make at least one person smile every day. I want to be that bright moment during a difficult time.”

Throughout her career, Theresa has supported major Publix events, welcomed international guests, assisted during hurricanes, and participated in community outreach efforts, including toy drives and Thanksgiving meal distributions.

What has kept her at Publix for two decades is the people-first culture.

“At some companies, they may only look at you as a number,” she said. “At Publix, we’re family. I don’t feel like I’m just here to fill a position. I know I’m valued, and the work I do has purpose.”

From employee ownership and retirement benefits to support during times of hardship, Theresa believes Publix remains committed to what matters most: its associates.

“Publix has never forgotten that its people are its heartbeat,” she said.

For Theresa, making a difference one smile, one interaction, and one act of service at a time is what makes a career at Publix truly rewarding.

Start your journey.

With dedication and support, you can build a meaningful future while making a difference every day. View our current openingsopens in a new tab and connect with us on Facebookopens in a new tab and Instagramopens in a new tab to learn more about a career at Publix.