Security Receptionist

Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts; Philadelphia (Philadelphia County); On-site; USD 30,000 - 40,000; Full time

Job summary

The Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts is seeking a Security Receptionist to serve as the primary ambassador for the Hamilton Building. This role involves maintaining a secure and welcoming environment for visitors while performing customer service and security operations tasks.

You will monitor CCTV, manage visitor access, and provide information on PAFA's exhibitions and events. The ideal candidate has customer service experience and a keen ability to adapt in dynamic environments.

Qualifications

• 1+ year of customer service or front desk experience.
• Prior experience in security or CCTV monitoring preferred.
• Professional demeanor in high-traffic or emergency situations.

Responsibilities

• Greet visitors and ensure appropriate access permissions.
• Monitor CCTV cameras and report suspicious behavior.
• Answer incoming calls and provide information about PAFA.

Skills

Customer service

Interpersonal skills

Communication skills

CCTV monitoring

Microsoft Office proficiency

Education

High School Diploma or equivalent

Job description

POSITION: Security Receptionist

The Security Receptionist serves as the primary ambassador and access point for PAFA's Hamilton Building, helping to maintain a secure, professional, and welcoming environment for all visitors, students, faculty, staff, tenants, and ArtsHub partners. This role combines exceptional front-line customer service with security operations functions, including access control, CCTV monitoring, visitor management, and incident response awareness, supporting the Academy's commitment to safety, accessibility, and community engagement.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Visitor Experience & Access Control

• Greet all visitors, tenants, students, instructors, and staff in a professional and welcoming manner
• Verify identification and ensure appropriate access permissions for all individuals entering the building.
• Provide clear directions and assistance to administrative offices, classrooms, and public spaces.
• Deliver a high standard of customer service, ensuring a positive first impression of PAFA.

Security, Monitoring & CCTV Operations

• Monitor CCTV camera systems to observe activity within the lobby, entrances, and surrounding areas.
• Identify and report suspicious behavior, unauthorized access attempts, or safety concerns to the Operations and Security Coordinator, Security Control Room and/or AlliedUniversal Leads.
• Maintain situational awareness of building activity through both physical presence and camera monitoring.
• Support investigations by documenting observed incidents.
• Monitor alarm systems, fire panels, and other safety/security equipment, reporting issues promptly
• Support emergency response procedures in accordance with PAFA policies.

Communications & Administrative Support

• Answer and route incoming telephone calls appropriately
• Provide accurate information regarding PAFA exhibitions, programs, and events.
• Maintain visitor logs, access records, and incident documentation as required
• Coordinate with Operations & Security Coordinator, AlliedUniversal Security, and Facilities teams to support daily operations.

QUALIFICATIONS

• High School Diploma or equivalent.
• Minimum of one (1) year of customer service or front desk experience.
• Prior experience in a security, reception, or CCTV monitoring role preferred.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills
• Ability to remain professional and composed in high-traffic or emergency situations
• Basic proficiency in Microsoft Office and general office equipment
• Experience using phone systems.
• Familiarity with Philadelphia area and ability to assist visitors with directions.

WORKING CONDITIONS

• Position is based in a lobby/front desk environment with frequent public interaction.
• Requires extended periods of sitting and standing.