About Our Organization

Founded in 1968, the Studio Museum in Harlem is the nexus for artists of African descent locally, nationally, and internationally and for work that has been inspired and influenced by Black culture. It is a site for the dynamic exchange of ideas about art and society.

Job Summary

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 Museum's assets. Guards are 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, this 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 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).
• Performs any other duties related to the functions described above, including exterior facility patrols, escorting contractors/vendors, traveling locally to other sites to perform security functions, etc.

Skills and Qualifications  

• New York State Guard certificate.
• CPR/AED/FSD and/or Fire Guard certification preferred, but training will be provided.

Training:

1. 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.
2. Knowledge of video surveillance systems, silent alarms, access control (doors), and other security equipment a plus.
3. A minimum of two-year security guard work or customer service experience with experience working in a museum preferred.
4. Excellent verbal and written communication skills, along with strong organizational and planning skills.

Education and Experience 

• High school diploma or equivalent is required.
• Prior experience in security, law enforcement, or a related field—preferably in a museum, cultural institution, or public-facing environment.
• Proven ability to remain calm and professional in high-pressure or emergency situations.
• Experience monitoring security systems, conducting patrols, and writing incident reports.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills; able to interact with diverse visitors and staff in a respectful and courteous manner.
• Familiarity with crowd control practices and procedures during events or high-traffic periods.
• Comfortable enforcing policies while maintaining a welcoming and visitor-centered approach.
• Ability to work both independently and as part of a team, with flexibility for evenings, weekends, and holidays as needed.

Physical Demands 

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

Work Environment 

• This position is a non-exempt position and may require working more than forty (40) hours during a work week.
• A fast-paced environment with varying levels of guests and employees present.
• Works with a group of team members within Building Operations – a critical department formed of engineering, Facilities, and security staff – and other museum staff.
• Building Accessibility – office locations are wheelchair accessible, with elevators in the building. Other accessible accommodation can be further discussed.

Compensation

$22 per hour

Salary is commensurate with experience within the guidelines of a small not-for-profit. A competitive benefits package is provided, including medical, dental, life and long-term disability insurance, a retirement account, and substantial vacation time.

Application Instructions

Please upload your resume and cover letter to your application. No phone calls or emails, please.  

Please note that while careful consideration will be given to each submission, only a select number of applicants will be contacted due to the volume of interest.

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, 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.  

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.