Security Guard (Harlem Center)

About Us

The Police Athletic League (PAL) of New York City is an independent youth development nonprofit organization serving as a critical bridge between police and communities across all five boroughs since 1914. PAL operates diverse programs for children as young as 2 years old to young adults, including Head Start, after-school programs, summer day camps, evening teen centers, college readiness programs, youth employment, juvenile justice programs, and competitive and recreational sports.

About the Role

We are looking for a Part-Time Security Guard to help create safe spaces for kids during after-school program hours. The Security Guard is responsible for maintaining the safety of participants, staff, and property, implementing and promoting security procedures in consultation with the center's Director.

Responsibilities

• Monitor common areas for safety by routinely walking hallways, gym, stairwells, and outdoor spaces to prevent conflicts or unsafe behavior.
• Monitor entry and exit points and security cameras to ensure only authorized individuals access the building.
• De-escalate conflicts using calm verbal requests and elevate unresolved issues to supervisors.
• Respond appropriately to time-sensitive mental health situations, such as suicide prevention or grief support, in accordance with PAL policies.
• Maintain clear documentation of incidents with short, factual descriptions.
• Participate in emergency procedures, including fire drills, evacuations, lockdowns, and shelter-in-place, as directed by the Center Director.
• Build positive relationships with youth, families, and community members as part of PAL’s youth development hub.
• Interact with caretakers and maintain open communication.
• Attend and actively participate in all required training sessions, meetings, and special events.

Commitment

• Able to work 15 hours a week (3 hours a day, 5 days a week).
• Able to attend 15 hours of orientation prior to the beginning of programming.
• Able to attend scheduled staff meetings and professional development throughout the year.

Requirements

• Minimum High School Diploma or GED.
• New York State Security Guard License (required).
• S-95 FDNY Certificate of Fitness and F-02 Fire Guard for Shelters certificate (must be obtained within 90 days of employment if not already held).
• Excellent verbal communication skills with a firm yet friendly tone.
• Strong situational awareness and ability to identify early signs of unsafe behavior.
• Skilled in verbal de-escalation, redirection, and conflict resolution.
• Able to build positive rapport with diverse youth, families, and community members.
• Bilingual in Spanish, French, or Chinese preferred.

Pay

The salary for this role is $17.00 to $20.00 an hour.

Benefits

PAL offers a comprehensive benefits package, including:

• Health insurance
• Flexible spending account options
• Employee assistance program
• Tuition reimbursement
• Pet insurance
• Life insurance
• Retirement savings options
• Generous paid time off policy
• Training and professional development

Schedule

Start Date: September 7th, 2026