Security Agent

16oncenterchicago; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 42,000 - 62,000; Full time

Job summary

16 On Center Chicago is seeking a Security Agent for Thalia Hall to ensure guest, artist, and staff safety while delivering a premier concert experience. Responsibilities include checking IDs, securing backstage access, and supporting crowd control with a professional demeanor.

Ideal candidates have security experience in music venues, a customer‑service mindset, and the ability to work flexible hours, including late nights and weekends. Open availability during major events is required.

Qualifications

• Previous security experience in music venues or events preferred.
• 21 years of age or older.
• Ability to stand for long periods and work in loud environments.
• Ability to de-escalate and handle intoxicated guests safely.
• Able to work flexible hours including late nights, weekends, and holidays.
• Open availability during major events (e.g., Lollapalooza week, NYE).
• Professionalism and discretion around artists and touring personnel.

Responsibilities

• Assist with guest and employee ingress, checking IDs, and enforcing credentials for backstage and artist areas.
• Monitor guest behavior and manage crowd safety.
• Supervise barricades, photo pit, and other key areas.
• Escort artists and touring personnel as needed with professionalism and discretion.
• Assist guests with directions, medical assistance, and venue needs.
• Document major incidents for thorough record-keeping with House team.
• Enforce the venue's code of conduct and foster an inclusive environment.
• Learn and follow emergency and evacuation procedures.
• Perform other tasks as assigned by management.

Skills

Interpersonal communication

Teamwork

Customer service

De-escalation

Adaptability

Flexible hours

Education

PERC license

Job description

Description

About Us:

16 On Center Chicago owns and operates several live music venues, third-party production, restaurants, bars, and food halls across Chicago and New York. Join the team of one of the country's leading independent promoters.

Our most effective service to our community comes from a team with a diverse mix of minds, backgrounds, and experiences. 16 On Center actively seeks a diverse applicant pool and encourages candidates of all backgrounds to apply. We provide equal opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment, without regard to race, religion, color, age, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, neurodiversity, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

Position Summary

As a Security Agent at Thalia Hall, you will play a key role in ensuring the safety and security of our guests, artists, and staff while delivering an unparalleled concert‑going experience. Whether checking IDs, securing backstage access, or assisting with crowd management, your focus will be on maintaining a safe, welcoming environment while upholding our high standards of hospitality

Additional Responsibilities Include but Are Not Limited To:

• Assist with guest and employee ingress, checking IDs, and enforcing credential checks for backstage and artist areas.
• Monitor guest behavior, ensuring safe crowd management and addressing inappropriate or unsafe conduct in a timely manner.
• Supervise barricades, the photo pit, and other key areas to maintain security and crowd control.
• Escort artists and touring personnel as needed while maintaining professionalism and discretion.
• Assist guests with directions, medical assistance, and any other venue-related needs.
• Work with the House team to document major incidents for thorough record‑keeping.
• Enforce the venue’s code of conduct and foster an inclusive, respectful environment.
• Learn, communicate, and follow emergency and evacuation procedures.
• Perform other tasks or projects as assigned by management.

Requirements

About You:

• Previous security experience in music venues or events preferred.
• Current PERC license preferred but not required.
• Strong interpersonal communication and teamwork skills.
• Adaptable and proactive—comfortable handling a variety of security duties, from checking IDs to de‑escalating difficult situations.
• Friendly, approachable demeanor with a customer‑service‑oriented mindset.
• Ability to work flexible hours, including late nights, weekends, and holidays.
• 21 years of age or older.
• Skilled in de‑escalation and handling intoxicated guests in a safety‑minded manner.
• Comfortable working in loud environments, both indoors and outdoors.
• Ability to stand for long periods and tolerate physical aspects of security work, including assisting with crowd surfers and safety incidents.

Additional Requirements:

• Mandatory Availability: Open availability is required during Lollapalooza week (end of July/early August) and New Year’s Eve. Time‑off requests for these dates will not be considered unless discussed upon hiring.
• Professionalism & Discretion: Employees must maintain composure, professionalism, and maturity around artists and touring personnel at all times.