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Security Attendant, Dia Beacon

Application deadline: Open until filled

Part-time position based in Beacon, New York
$19 per hour

Background 
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 Security Attendant will provide support on Saturdays and Sundays, and will cover additional shifts as needed, inclusive of weekends and holidays, as needed. They are responsible for monitoring and enforcing all security protocols and actively responding to security issues. The individual in this role is sensitive to the unique nature of a contemporary art institution and demonstrates the ability to coordinate and cooperate with multiple departments. This position works closely with the Visitor Services department, Chief Operating Officer, Senior Facilities Managers, Gallery Attendants, bookshop, cafe, and housekeeping staff, as well as facilities staff during the museum’s public and non-public hours and special events. This position is 24 hours per week; the Security Attendant must be available to work weekends and most holidays. Beacon-area or Hudson-Valley residency is preferred. 

Essential duties and responsibilities

  • Responsible for 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 ground
  • Check staff and contractors in who have been cleared to be in the building each day
  • Provide continuous coverage of assigned areas and communicate effectively over the radio system
  • Responsible for the safety and security of the visitors during open and closed hours and special events and programs; work closely and collaboratively 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, including directing 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
  • Effectively inform visitors of Dia’s policies and intervene when problems arise in a polite and professional manner
  • Assist with special events and programming, including managing outside vendors during events and supporting Visitor Services Managers with VIP visits as needed
  • Maintain a current NYS Certified Security 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
  • Must complete training in and stay up-to-date with Dia’s EAP and carry out the related procedures; these include managing emergency evacuations and liaising with emergency personnel such as the police, Fire Departments, and Emergency Medical Services
  • Perform light maintenance of the building and grounds during public and non-public hours; assist in informing the Facilities department about necessary repairs, leaks, power outages, and other extenuating circumstances; 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
  • High-school diploma is preferred

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 is 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 lbs
  • 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

Please note that to provide a safe workplace free of recognized hazards and to take every possible step to reduce the transmission of COVID-19 among our employees, Dia requires proof of COVID-19 vaccination upon hire, except for those who obtain an exemption due to a medical condition, a religious belief, or pregnancy.

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.

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