N.J. Stat. § 40A:14-146.1
In any city of the first class, the governing body may create the title of security officers under the classified service of civil service, and may appoint and commission as many security officers as it may deem necessary to patrol the grounds, buildings and other areas and facilities of all schools, libraries, museums, hospitals, housing projects, municipal parks and municipal buildings, owned or leased by such municipality. The municipality shall organize such security officers into a separate division or unit of its police department or force, and they shall have all the powers conferred by law on police officers or constables in the enforcement of the laws of this State, and the apprehension of offenders. Security officers shall be subject to and receive training in the same manner as other members of the municipal police force.
Those individuals who are employed in cities of the first class under the title of housing guard or housing patrolman that have been appointed in accordance with Title 11 (Civil Service) on October 2, 1969 shall be eligible for appointment under the title of security officer and shall be so certified to the Civil Service Commission without the requirement of a civil service examination. Such persons shall, from said date, hold their positions or employments subject to and in accordance with the provisions of Title 11 (Civil Service) of the Revised Statutes.
N.J.S. § 40A:14-146.1