Security Attendant

Dia Art Foundation; New York (NY); On-site; USD 10,000 - 60,000; Part time

Job summary

Dia Art Foundation is seeking a part-time Security Attendant to ensure the safety and security of its museum facility. This role involves monitoring compliance with security protocols, providing support during special events, and maintaining a safe environment for visitors and artwork alike. Applicants must hold a valid New York State Security Guard license and enjoy interacting with the public.

Benefits

Paid sick days and paid time off in lieu of holidays worked

Participation in the 401(k) savings program with company match

Opportunities to learn about collections through presentations

Reduced or free admission to most American museums

Qualifications

• New York State Security Guard license required.
• CPR and First Aid certifications a must.

Responsibilities

• Monitor and enforce security protocols at Dia Beacon.
• Provide assistance during special events and manage visitor interactions.
• Respond to security issues and ensure the safety of all museum visitors.

Skills

Communication

Teamwork

Customer Service

Education

Current New York State Security Guard license

Certification in CPR, AED, and First Aid

Job description

Based in New York, Dia Art Foundation is committed to advancing, realizing, and preserving the vision of artists. A nonprofit founded in 1974, Dia collects the work of some of the most renowned artists of the last half-century; presents long-term, site-specific projects; executes new commissions; and produces scholarly publications related to its exhibitions and collections.

Position summary

The Dia Beacon Security team is the public face of the institution, ensuring the safety and security of Dia Beacon’s building and collection and fostering a positive, professional, and safe environment for all museum visitors and staff. The individual in this role is responsible for monitoring and enforcing all security protocols and actively responding to security issues. They are sensitive to the unique nature of a contemporary art institution and demonstrate the ability to coordinate and cooperate with multiple departments, working closely with the Visitor Services, Gallery Attendants, Bookshop, Cafe, Housekeeping, and Facilities staff, as well as the Chief Operating Officer and Director of Facilities, during the museum’s public and non-public hours and special events. The Security Attendant provides support on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays, and covers additional shifts as needed, inclusive of weekends and holidays (please note there are no overnight shifts). This position is 24 hours per week; Beacon-area or Hudson-Valley residency is preferred.

Essential duties and responsibilities

• Perform all aspects of security protocols, including monitoring staff interactions, checking ID badges and contractor logs, and securing all areas of the Dia Beacon site
• Ensure the integrity of the museum’s perimeter and grounds
• Check in staff and contractors who have been cleared to be in the building
• Provide continuous coverage of assigned areas and communicate effectively over the radio system
• Ensure the safety and security of visitors during open and closed hours, special events, and programs; collaborate with the Gallery Attendants and other Dia staff to create a cordial, safe, and inclusive atmosphere within the museum
• Proactively address disputes or complaints from visitors in a courteous and professional manner
• Protect the employees, artwork, building, and grounds; handle visitors who breach security; protect off-limits areas of the building as well as the artwork, furnishings, and grounds
• Assist with opening, securing, and closing the building in conjunction with the Security team
• Manage the parking areas; monitor all traffic flow entering and exiting the parking areas and direct visitors, employees, deliveries, tour buses, and other groups entering the museum
• Monitor the closed-circuit video and electronic security system; patrol throughout the museum, checking galleries, doors, and windows
• Follow Dia’s Emergency Action Plan (EAP) and monitor all safety regulations; respond quickly and effectively in case of an emergency
• Politely and professionaly inform visitors of Dia’s policies and intervene when problems arise
• Assist with special events and programs, including managing outside vendors and supporting Visitor Services Managers with VIP visits as needed
• Maintain a current New York State Security Guard license, including required in-service training

Other duties and responsibilities

• Provide front-desk coverage and maintain positive customer service; provide general information about Dia Art Foundation
• In conjunction with the Facilities department, assist with deliveries and ensure proper delivery protocols; effectively communicate with other departments about packages and parcels
• Complete training in and stay up-to-date with Dia’s EAP and carry out the related procedures, including managing emergency evacuations and liaising with emergency personnel such as the police, fire department, and emergency medical services
• Perform light maintenance of the building and grounds during public and non-public hours; inform the Facilities department about necessary repairs, leaks, power outages, and other extenuating circumstances; and take steps to ensure the safety of the artwork and visitors
• Assist in artwork handling and protection as necessary
• Aid museum visitors by answering questions and giving directions to local venues and travel routes

Education, certifications, and experience

• Current New York State Security Guard license
• Certification in CPR, AED, and First Aid by the American Heart Association

Knowledge, skills, and abilities

• Must be available to work flexible hours as needed, including extended hours, weekends, and most holidays
• Must be able to work well within a team setting
• Able to communicate effectively, professionally, and diplomatically with staff and visitors
• Knowledge of museums, contemporary art, or cultural organizations a plus

Working conditions and physical demands

• Standing or walking for long periods of time
• Using handheld radios to communicate
• Working outdoors in various weather conditions
• Must be able to lift and carry up to 40 lb.
• Must be able to perform light maintenance tasks such as cleaning windows, removing debris from gallery floors, and occasionally assisting with setting up furniture for special events

Qualified candidates are invited to apply by completing the online job application, linked here , and attaching a resume and letter of interest.

Part-time employees are eligible for paid sick days, paid time off in lieu of holidays worked, and participation in the 401(k) savings program with company match. Employees have the opportunity to learn about the collections through presentations by curators, artists, writers, and historians. Staff ID badges gain reduced or free admission to most American museums and arts organizations.

Dia Art Foundation is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of age, color, national origin, ethnic origin, citizenship status, disability, race, religion, creed, gender, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, marital status, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law in its employment policies. In addition, Dia will provide reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities and supports an equitable, inclusive, and neurodiverse workplace. Candidates with nontraditional learning or career paths and/or applicants whose qualifications differ from those listed above are encouraged to apply.