Security Supervisor

 

 

As SAM heads into its second century, we are boldly reimagining what we can and should be. Our goal is to be a model for the future of museums - a bold, dynamic hub of creativity, belonging, and cultural leadership, shaping the future of art and community. Embracing new ways of engaging communities and seeking innovative partnerships - all while keeping art and community at the center of what we do. This ambitious effort represents a transformative shift and radically redefining how art museums operate. This is a pivotal moment for SAM, and we are seeking great talent to join us on our journey. Working at SAM is not just a job—it's a chance to be part of a vibrant, creative community.

 

 

 

• Maintain working knowledge of current policies, procedures, guidelines, processes, and systems to ensure the safety and security of museum facilities, the collection, staff, and visitors
• In-depth understanding of all building access procedures, including staff, guests, vendors, contractors, visiting artists and artwork, proximity cards, and gallery access
• Supervise overall security operations during shifts, including conducting pre-shift meetings, leading de-briefs, overseeing the implementation of daily staff schedule, and responding to staff and visitor inquiries and requests for assistance
• Ensure staff is informed of new policies, procedures, guidelines, and processes
• Working knowledge of all security positions and their corresponding responsibilities
• Oversee security operations during public and private programs and events
• Monitor and ensure the operational readiness of cameras, alarm devises, access control systems, locks, and safety-related equipment
• Obtain, record, and maintain necessary documentation, records and incident reports in an accurate and timely manner
• Provide hands-on training to staff regarding opening and closing procedures, emergency building evacuation, and operation of security infrastructure such as gates and fire doors
• Serve as a role model for department staff in creating a welcoming, inclusive and accessible environment for all
• Participate in training, mentoring, and evaluating the performance of Gallery Security Officers, Event Security Officers, Leads, and Dispatchers
• Ensure open communication with department staff
• Provide direct and timely feedback to staff
• Ensure compliance with CBA for represented employees
• Foster a team culture that continuously re-enforces high quality customer service
• Provide guidance for guards to support diverse audiences, maintaining authority while being sensitive to all visitors, including first-time museum goers, non-native English speakers, and visitors of various ages and backgrounds
• Supervise emergency response including the initial size-up, response, and notification processes
• Act as the “first responder” for disruptive visitors, trespassers on property, medical, and other emergent situations; determine if/when such situations warrant 911 calls for EMS, police, community safety officers, or other response
• Participate in regular emergency drills 
• Contribute to an institutional focus of delivering exceptional, welcoming, and inclusive customer service—creating positive, meaningful experiences for all visitors, every time
• Participate in institutional learning opportunities to grow our collective understanding and integration of antiracism, cultural competency, and equity values into SAM’s work

 

• Exposure: Work areas are primarily inside, in a climate-controlled environment with moderate background noise. Workspaces may include outdoor areas. May have contact with hostile or abusive members of the public. Work during events may have higher noise levels.
• Stationary Work:  Approximately 50% of time is spent stationary while working at a desk. Balance of time (approximately 50%) is spent moving around the work area. Occasional extended periods of standing may be required.
• Communication:  Clear and effective verbal and written communication in English with the public and co-workers is necessary.
• Vision:  Ability to effectively use a computer screen and interpret printed materials, memos and other appropriate paperwork.
• Office Work:  Ability to effectively and regularly operate a computer, keyboard, telephone, and other office productivity machinery, such as copy machines and printers, and ability to inspect, prepare and use paperwork, files, equipment, and supplies is necessary.

 

FLSA Status: Full Time, Non-Exempt

Reports To: Security Manager

Work Location: Seattle Art Museum - Downtown Location 

Work Schedule:  This role is scheduled to work 7:30am-4:30pm, Wednesday- Sunday,  in one of three shifts; 7:30am – 4:30pm (First), 4pm – 12am (Second), 11:45pm – 7:45am (Third) as part of maintaining a 24/7 security operation. Weekend and/or holiday work may be required.