The Whitney Museum of American Art

Security Officer

Job Description

Posted on: 
March 6, 2025

At the Whitney, we believe that security is not only about protecting physical assets but also about ensuring the safety and dignity of our visitors, staff, and other audiences.  Guards are responsible for following our Code of Ethics and other related policies, for bringing violations to the attention of Security leadership, and for demonstrating integrity and professionalism as part of their jobs.  Reporting to the Director of Security, Security Officers are part of the public-facing team and are principally responsible for the safety and security of our visitors and staff. Security Officers contribute to the overall protection of art and aim to prevent any serious art incident.

Security Officers provide security service in the lobby, in the galleries, at the staff entrance, in central and at our art storage facility. On occasion they may be asked to work in locations different from those listed. They assist with the management of visitors.

As part of the Visitor Experience team, Security Officers create a positive environment for the general public and museum members.

Shifts Include Weekends, Overnights, Evenings and Mornings.

Requirements:  8- and 16-hour New York State Certification; promptness; strong customer service skills; ability to stand for long periods and a neat appearance; fire Security Officer experience is required.

Compensation & Benefits:

  • Hourly rate of $21.98
  • Medical, Dental, Vision, 403(B) elections
  • Generous PTO benefits
  • Commuter benefits - parking and mass transit
  • Admission to world-renowned museums across the city and nationally
  • Pet insurance and discounted membership for Citibike

Responsibilities

Responsibilities:

  • Enforce the Museum rules of conduct for visitors
  • Patrol designated area in the galleries or lobby
  • Ensure that the public, the 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
  • Check packages of persons and/or staff leaving the Museum
  • Responsible for any other duties as directed by Director of Security or designee.

Job Requirements

Requirements and Qualifications:

  • Must possess a current NYS Security Officer License
  • High School Diploma or equivalent required and a minimum of two years’ experience in security field
  • An ability and willingness to participate in events outside the workday schedule
  • Must be available to work evenings and weekends
  • Organizational skills preferred
  • Excellent communication skills preferred
  • Bi-lingual a plus
  • Must be able to stand particularly for sustained periods of time.
  • Respond to First Aid and Emergency Situations
  • Maneuver safely up and down flights of stairs multiple times a round or shift.
  • Must able bend, jump, run and lift about 25 pounds

Confidentiality:

  • As required in relation to any sensitive information in relation to safety or security

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