Evening Security Officer - Museum Access & Safety

The Art Institute of Chicago; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 38,000 - 48,000; Full time

Job summary

The Art Institute of Chicago is seeking a Security Officer for the 2nd shift (Thursday–Monday, 4pm–12am) to protect visitors, staff and art. This full-time, on-site role requires vigilance, communication, and a proactive approach to safety.

You will monitor access, respond to alarms, patrol premises, and coordinate with DoPS to ensure a secure museum environment. A high school diploma and at least two years of security experience, plus strong customer service and teamwork, are essential.

Qualifications

• High School diploma or GED required.
• Two years of security or related experience.
• Strong customer service and interpersonal communication skills.
• Strong organizational and problem-solving skills; ability to articulate solutions and work effectively as part of a team.
• Ability to carry out instructions furnished in written, oral, or diagrammatic form.
• Ability to work under pressure and take direction from DoPS management representatives in emergency situations.
• Must adapt to varying shift schedules, extended hours, and changing operational environments.
• Basic computer knowledge.

Responsibilities

• Controls access to the museum.
• Monitors visitors, staff, and contractors in all public and private areas of the museum, looking for unusual or suspicious actions.
• Demonstrates knowledge of the museum layout and facilities.
• Works in Control areas; inspects parcels, issues keys, manages visitors and contractors, answers radio traffic and phones.
• Enforces policies and procedures and helps protect property; observes and assists in preventing theft or vandalism.
• Responds to fire and security alarms; determines if false or actual and takes appropriate action; completes incident reports.
• Performs shift patrols of fire, security, and HVAC as directed.
• Tests security equipment as instructed.
• Provides courteous assistance to visitors and staff by answering questions and giving information.
• Observes surroundings for evidence of damage to structure or art.
• Keeps manager informed of suspicious activities, leaks, faults, or injuries.
• Follows all DoPS policies and trains new Officers.
• Coordinates communication with supervisors during incidents or emergencies.
• Relays accurate information via radio or phone to appropriate personnel.
• Works with team to ensure consistent enforcement of safety procedures.
• May work all shifts or overtime as needed (including 30–90 days on a different shift).
• Operates equipment: alarms, radios, telephones, incident reporting software, HVAC and access control panels, keys, and surveillance tools.

Skills

Customer service

Interpersonal communication

Teamwork

Problem solving

Written communication

Education

High School diploma or GED

Job description

The Art Institute of Chicago is seeking a Security Officer for the 2nd shift (Thursday–Monday, 4pm–12am) to protect visitors, staff and art. This full-time, on-site role requires vigilance, communication, and a proactive approach to safety.

You will monitor access, respond to alarms, patrol premises, and coordinate with DoPS to ensure a secure museum environment. A high school diploma and at least two years of security experience, plus strong customer service and teamwork, are essential.