SCOP Officer I (Full-Time)

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.

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.

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.

Formal education or equivalent experience in law enforcement, criminal justice, private security, or a related field, such as military service.

You will be provided a confirmation of receipt when your application and/or résumé is submitted successfully. Please refer to “Your Application” in your account to check the status of your application for this position.

Please provide three professional references, including their full name, phone number, and email address. References should be able to speak to your qualifications for the position and may be included in your resume or cover letter or attached separately in the portal’s "other" field.

Diverse and inclusive hiring practices are at the heart of what we do at the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts. In support of the Commonwealth’s commitment to inclusion, we are encouraging individuals with disabilities to apply through the Commonwealth Alternative Hiring Process. To be considered for this opportunity, applicants will need to provide their AHP Letter (formerly COD) provided by the Department for Aging & Rehabilitative Services (DARS), or the Department for the Blind & Vision Impaired (DBVI). Service-Connected Veterans are encouraged to answer Veteran status questions and submit their disability documentation, if applicable, to DARS/DBVI to get their AHP Letter. Requesting an AHP Letter can be found at AHP Letter or by calling DARS at 800-552-5019.

VMFA is a Virginia Values Veterans (V3) Certified Employer. 

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.
  • Requirements and FAQs for DCJS SCOPs: Special Conservators of the Peace | Virginia Department of Criminal Justice Services

Please contact the HR office at recruitment@vmfa.museum if you need assistance.

Name: Human Resources Services

Phone: For the most up-to-date status of your application, please refer to your Jobs.Virginia.Gov account. We do not provide application status updates via phone.

Email: recruitment@vmfa.museum for recruitment related questions.

Emailed applications, resumes, or cover letters will not be accepted. For the most up-to-date status of your application, please refer to your Jobs.Virginia.Gov account. 

Advertised: 25 Sep 2026 Eastern Daylight Time
Applications close: 11 Oct 2026 Eastern Daylight Time

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