Museum Assistant

The Phillips Collection; Washington (District of Columbia); On-site; USD 24,796 - 27,552; Full time

Job summary

The Phillips Collection in Washington, DC is seeking Museum Assistants to help create a safe, welcoming experience for visitors while supporting security operations and museum programs. The role primarily reports to the Associate Museum Security Manager and supports the Security Department with protecting artwork, engaging visitors, and assisting with exhibitions and events.

Responsibilities include monitoring galleries, communicating policies, assisting with emergencies, and facilitating events

Qualifications

• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods.
• Ability to operate two-way radios, computers, and basic tools.
• Demonstrated customer service with diverse audiences.
• Calm, professional performance during emergencies.
• Flexible with shifts including evenings and weekends.

Responsibilities

• Perform daily gallery security duties to safeguard the permanent collection and exhibitions.
• Maintain an active presence in assigned areas and respond promptly to incidents.
• Communicate museum policies clearly to visitors and staff.
• Provide information about the museum, exhibitions, and collections.
• Monitor for suspicious or unsafe behavior and hazards.
• Respond to medical or safety emergencies until responders arrive.
• Facilitate emergency evacuations when required.
• Operate radios, phones, and basic computer systems to document incidents.
• Assist with setup and operations for events and programs.
• Complete onboarding and refresher training.

Skills

Communication

Stamina

Radios & Computers

Customer Service

Professionalism

Independence

Teamwork

Flexibility

Punctuality

Job description

POSITION OBJECTIVE

Museum Assistants play a vital role in creating a safe, welcoming, and engaging experience for all visitors to The Phillips Collection. This public-facing position requires strong communication skills, consistent professionalism, and the ability to respond quickly and effectively to safety or medical emergencies. This position primarily reports to Associate Museum Security Manager – a right hand to the museum’s Director of Security Operations. Museum Assistants support the Security Department by protecting the artwork, supporting visitor engagement and safety, and assisting with overall museum operations‑including exhibitions, programs, and special day and evening, occasional weekend events.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Perform daily gallery security duties to safeguard the permanent collection and special exhibitions.
• Maintain an active presence in assigned areas; remain alert, observant, and responsive throughout the shift.
• Clearly communicate museum policies and procedures to visitors and staff in a supportive and professional manner.
• Provide accurate information about the museum, exhibitions, and collections to guests.
• Monitor for and report suspicious, unusual, or unsafe behavior, hazards, or incidents.
• Respond promptly to medical, safety, and life‑safety emergencies, providing appropriate assistance until supervisory staff or first responders arrive.
• Facilitate emergency evacuation procedures when required.
• Operate hand‑held radios, phones, and basic computer systems to communicate, relay information, and document incidents.
• Move or reposition light furniture or equipment (up to 20 lbs., with or without assistance).
• Work evenings, weekends, and special events as scheduled.
• Successfully complete all required Museum Assistant onboarding, training, and refresher modules.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Strong verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to give clear instructions and communicate calmly during emergencies.
• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods and respond quickly to incidents anywhere in the building.
• Ability to operate two‑way radios, computers, and basic communication tools reliably.
• Demonstrated ability to provide exceptional customer service and engage effectively with diverse audiences.
• Ability to remain focused, professional, and adaptable in a fast‑paced and dynamic environment.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively with peers and management.
• Flexibility with break schedules, assignments, and operational changes.
• Reliability, punctuality, and a strong sense of responsibility.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Experience in security services or basic use of security systems.
• Strong customer service background and/or experience with basic security systems.
• Museum experience and general knowledge of modern or contemporary art.
• Interest or background in art, museums, or cultural institutions.
• Experience in visitor‑facing, hospitality, or public engagement roles.
• Fluency in a second language.

No recruiters, no phone calls, please.

The Phillips Collection is an equal opportunity employer and administers all employment decisions and personnel actions without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, pregnancy, childbirth or related medical conditions, national origin, age, physical or mental disability, genetic disposition or carrier status, marital status, veteran status, personal appearance, gender identity or expression, family responsibilities, matriculation, political affiliation, or any other category protected under applicable federal, state, or local law.