Security

This position interacts with visitors in a positive and welcoming manner, provides directions and information related to the Museum collection, public programs, as well as safeguarding visitors, staff, and The Studio Museum in Harlem’s assets.

He/she is also responsible for communicating Museum policies regarding the safety of the collection and ensures staff and visitors adhere to established protocols to safeguard the collection from damage. Additionally, the position is a member of the fire safety program by default, meaning any Museum security guard will need to have some level of fire safety skillset, which will be commensurate in skills for all security guard supervisors. Upon the Museum's reopening, the position will require availability for a 24/7/365 security coverage.

 

Essential Job Duties and Responsibilities:

  • Conducts opening and closing procedures of building, including inspection of rooftop and of assigned galleries and other surrounding areas to guarantee there are no safety issues or concerns prior to opening the Museum to the public
  • Performs regular patrols of assigned area and reports issues and/or safety concerns to the supervisor
  • Ensure that the public, Museum staff, and other outside contractors adhere to certain fundamental rules of security to prevent theft, fire, damage, and personal injury
  • Responsible for preventing disorder and overcrowding
  • Monitor and report safety conditions
  • Monitor CCTV cameras as required
  • Responsible for elevator operation when required
  • Check packages of persons and/or staff entering and leaving the Museum
  • Completes daily log and other security reports as required
  • Reports and responds to emergency incidents (e.g., medical emergencies, natural disasters, visitor complaints, etc.)
  • Performs any other duties reasonably related to the functions described above, including exterior facility patrols, escorting contractors/vendors, traveling locally to other sites to perform security functions, etc.

 

Key Stakeholders :

Internal/External

Visitors, Education Department, Curatorial Department, Facilities, and with other Security Officers

 

Travel Requirements:

We expect guards to perform local traveling to the ARCIS location as well as to the future executive offices 

Physical Demands:

· Ability to walk/stand for extended periods of time
· Ability to climb stairs and stoop/kneel in order to perform security duties
· Ability to work weekends (five-day work week includes weekend days)

Qualifications:

  • High school diploma or equivalent is required
  • New York State Guard certificate
  • CPR/AED/FSD and/or Fire Guard certification preferred, but training will be provided
  • Training: De-escalation, crowd control, management of aggressive behavior, physical security, conflict resolution, suspicious mail/packages, screening visitors, metal detectors, cultural sensitivity, fire alarm systems, hand-held wand, post orders, etc.
  • Knowledge of video surveillance systems, silent alarms, access control (doors), and other security equipment a plus
  • A minimum of two-year security guard work or customer service experience with experience working in a Museum preferred
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills, along with strong organizational and planning skills
  • Ability to provide excellent customer service and maintain professional demeanor in a challenging and dynamic environment
  • Ability to communicate with people outside the organization, representing the organization to customers, the public and other external sources in person, in writing, or by telephone
  • Ability to actively listen to what others are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, ask questions as appropriate and not interrupt at inappropriate times
  • Ability to provide information to supervisors and coworkers and represent the organization to customers, the public, and other external sources in person, in writing, or by telephone
  • Comfortable working in an environment with groups of children
  • Experience serving diverse audiences 
  • Demonstrable experience in working as a member of a team
  • Detail oriented with the capability to work under minimal supervision
  • Wearing of uniform daily
  • Carry a two-way radio or cellphone during shift, which is provided by the Museum

 

Competencies (Key Behaviors & Abilities Essential to Perform the Job):

  • Commitment (Core Value) — To the mission and values of The Studio Museum in Harlem.
  • Collaborative (Core Value) – Works well with others at all levels of the organization, as well as with key external stakeholders 
  • Initiative (Core Value) — Takes self-directed, appropriate action to influence outcomes and/or drive progress and positive change
  • Observation Skills – Capable of detecting threats and suspicious behavior among crowd/visitors and reading the landscape for possible threats
  • Honesty and Integrity – Able to accept responsibility for own actions and to always act professional, especially when working autonomously at another Studio Museum facility or during overnight shifts
  • Communication Skills and Empathy – Have a good understanding of the audience we serve and be able to proactively and respectfully approach all visitors, vendors, and stakeholders with both empathy and kindness when resolving issues that may arise while on shift
  • Conciliatory Attitude – Use training skills to de-escalate aggressive behavior during tense situations
  • Physical Appearance – Maintains a neat and clean appearance at all times in an important front-facing security officer role

 

Salary:

$22 per hour.

Application: 

The position is open until filled. Send resume and cover letter to jobs@studiomuseum.org. Include Security in the subject line of your email. 

Research shows that women and individuals from underrepresented backgrounds often apply to jobs only if they meet 100% of the qualifications. We recognize that it is highly unlikely that an applicant meets 100% of the qualifications for a given role. Therefore, if much of this job description describes you, then you are highly encouraged to apply for this role. 

The Studio Museum in Harlem is an equal opportunity employer and considers all candidates for employment regardless of race, color, sex, age, gender identification, national origin, creed, disability, marital status, sexual orientation, or political affiliation. We celebrate our inclusive work environment and encourage folks of all backgrounds and perspectives to apply. At The Studio Museum in Harlem, we are committed to having an inclusive and transparent environment where every voice is heard and acknowledged. We embrace our differences, and know that our diverse team is a strength that drives our success. 

The Studio Museum is requiring proof of Covid-19 vaccination for employment. In order to be eligible, participants must show proof of vaccination and a form of personal ID.