SCOP Officer I (Part-Time)

Virginia Museum of Fine Arts; Virginia, Northern (MN, KY); Hybrid; USD 28,000 - 39,000; Part time

Job summary

Virginia Museum of Fine Arts seeks a part‑time Special Conservator of the Peace (SCOP) Officer in Richmond, VA. The role involves patrolling museum property, enforcing rules, assisting visitors and staff, and responding to emergencies.

SCOPs are armed and exercise police powers, with responsibilities to secure evidence and maintain records. Position requires flexible shifts, including mornings, evenings, weekends and holidays, plus DCJS certifications and CPR/First Aid.

Qualifications

• Understanding of laws, regulations, and standards governing sworn, armed Special Conservators of the Peace.
• Ability to address public safety and security concerns promptly.
• Capable of providing emergency care to injured or ill individuals at the Museum.
• Proficient in independent judgment, thorough reporting, and clear communication.
• Able to sit, stand, and patrol for extended periods (up to 12 hours).
• Comfortable in a diverse environment.
• Skilled at building positive working relationships with staff and the public.
• Familiarity with basic computer applications.

Responsibilities

• Patrol museum property and enforce rules to maintain safety.
• Respond to emergencies and report hazards or suspicious activity.
• Support investigations and maintain detailed records.
• Provide assistance to visitors and staff as needed.
• Coordinate with security teams to ensure a safe environment.

Skills

Armed law enforcement

Public safety

Emergency response

Reporting

Criminal justice knowledge

DCJS certifications

Education

Criminal Justice degree or equivalent experience

DCJS Security Officer Certification (armed)

Job description

Working Title:Special Conservator of the Peace

State Role Title: Law Enforcement Officer I

Pay Band: 3

Position Type:Part-time (Wage/Hourly)

FLSA Status:Non-Exempt: Eligible for Overtime

Recruitment Type: General Public - G

Department:Security Services

Post closes on Sunday, October 11, 2026 at 11:55 PM EST.

About Virginia Museum of Fine Arts:

The Virginia Museum of Fine Arts (VMFA) in Richmond, Virginia, is one of the largest comprehensive art museums in the United States. VMFA, which opened in 1936, is a state agency and privately endowed educational institution. Its purpose is to collect, preserve, exhibit and interpret art, and to encourage the study of the arts.

VMFA is the only art museum in the United States open 365 days a year with free general admission.

About Security Services:

The Department of Security Services is dedicated to maintaining a safe and secure environment for all staff, volunteers, and visitors to the museum and its campus. This includes safeguarding the buildings, property, and art collections from all potential threats. This is achieved through several key functions: regular patrols of the museum and grounds; enforcement of established rules and regulations; surveillance and monitoring using cameras and other technologies; providing assistance to visitors and employees; reporting and responding to potential hazards and suspicious activities; and responding to emergency situations. These efforts directly support the Commonwealth of Virginia's cultural enrichment goals and align with the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts' strategic plan.

General Information:

We are currently seeking applications for a dedicated and civic-minded individual to join our Security Services Department as a Special Conservator of the Peace (SCOP) Officer.

As a Special Conservator of the Peace Officer, you will ensure the safety and security of our museum, employees, and visitors. This role involves patrolling museum property, enforcing rules, assisting visitors and staff, responding to emergencies, reporting hazards or suspicious activities, and supporting investigations. SCOPs, who are armed and exercise general police powers, also secure evidence and maintain detailed records.

Flexibility is essential, as this position requires working varied shifts, including mornings, evenings, weekends and holidays.

Minimum Qualifications:

Understanding of laws, regulations, and standards governing the duties and conduct of sworn, armed Special Conservators of the Peace, as well as accident and claims investigation methods.

Ability to effectively address public safety and security concerns in a timely and appropriate manner.

Capable of providing emergency care to individuals who are injured, ill, or otherwise in need of assistance while at the Museum.

Proficient in exercising independent judgment, preparing thorough and effective reports, and communicating clearly in both written and oral formats.

Able to sit, stand, and patrol the campus for extended periods, up to twelve (12) hours.

Comfortable working in a diverse environment.

Skilled at establishing and maintaining positive working relationships with colleagues and the public.

Familiarity with basic computer applications.

Additional Considerations:

Knowledge, Skills, Abilities and/or Competencies typically obtained through the completion of an academic curriculum or program in Criminal Justice or equivalent level of practical experience.

CPR/AED/First Aid Certified, Department of Criminal Justice Services (DCJS) Security Officer Certified, DCJS Alarm Respondent Certified.

Conditions of Employment:

Employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a criminal background check.

Please note that once hired, continued employment is contingent upon the successful completion of the following:

Successful completion of the entry level SCOP training and firearms courses.

Successful completion of ninety-five (95) hours of field training.

Acceptance and credentialing by the State Department of Criminal Justice Services (DCJS) as an Armed Special Conservator of the Peace.

E-Verify Notice: After accepting employment, new hires are required to complete an I-9 form and present documentation of their identity and eligibility to work in the United States. Virginia Museum of Fine Arts uses the E-Verify system to confirm identity and work authorization.

Each agency within the Commonwealth of Virginia is dedicated to recruiting, supporting, and maintaining a competent and diverse work force. Equal Opportunity Employer

Experience a world-class art museum with hometown hospitality. The Virginia Museum of Fine Arts houses a remarkable permanent collection of more than 50,000 works of art from almost every major world culture.

We’re open 365 days a year and general admission is always free.