Security Officer, Galleries

Founded over 100 years ago, the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston (MFAH) ranks among the top 10 art museums nationally in exhibition space, membership, endowment, and attendance. The MFAH is a multifaceted institution comprising multiple gallery buildings, a sculpture garden, two art schools, and two house-museums for decorative arts. Its encyclopedic collection numbers more than 65,000 works of art in a wide range of media. As an employer, MFAH offers a supportive, collegial, and inclusive work environment and a competitive benefits package.

About the role

As a highly visible representative of the Museum and a member of the security team, the Gallery Attendant provides a welcoming and informative experience for all visitors while ensuring the safety and security of the museum buildings, contents, grounds, guests, and employees. Daily gallery assignments vary but require a high level of awareness, diligence, and exceptional customer service. Gallery Attendants answer questions about galleries, exhibitions, and general inquiries about the MFAH campus.

The primary responsibility of this role is the protection of Museum gallery spaces, the objects within them, and the safety of all occupants by observing, reporting, and responding to related activities. Gallery Attendants share a flexible schedule based around the Museum’s public hours, including evenings, weekends, holidays, and private events outside regular hours.

This is a full- or part-time, non-exempt, hourly position reporting to the Security Manager – Gallery Operations.

Responsibilities

• Performs patrols of assigned galleries, creating a welcoming and informative experience for all guests.
• Maintains awareness for theft, vandalism, and disruptive behavior within assigned galleries.
• Watches for and reports irregularities such as damage to art objects, unkept areas requiring housekeeping attention, fire hazards, environmental hazards, and unsecured security exposures.
• Interacts with visitors to provide directions, information, and general assistance.
• Inspects works on view and display cases in assigned areas at the beginning and end of each rotation; reports suspicious activity as necessary.
• Communicates Museum policies regarding the safety of the collection and ensures staff and visitors adhere to established protocols.
• Assists with emergency situations such as medical incidents and evacuations.
• May serve as a member of the museum emergency response team.
• Responds to alarms in display cases quickly and efficiently.
• Escorts visitors and contractors throughout the building when directed.
• Secures galleries and museum premises when closing, ensuring all patrons have exited.
• Assures visitor compliance with all Museum gallery and campus regulations.
• Assists with other Museum activities as assigned.

Requirements

• Strong customer service mindset with the ability to interact with the public, analyze situations, and anticipate visitor needs.
• Tactful and polite in dealing with the public.
• Proficient in English, both written and verbal.
• Neat and tidy appearance at all times in accordance with security department guidelines.
• Observant, able to detect and report unusual behavior or circumstances.
• Alert and able to respond quickly in an emergency.
• Ability to obtain and maintain First Responder, CPR, and related certifications on a yearly basis.
• Physically able to administer First Aid and CPR, including carrying first aid equipment and assisting with lifting and moving victims if required.
• Flexibility to work various shifts and special events extending beyond scheduled hours.
• As a full-time staff member, availability to work weekends on a regular basis.
• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Previous customer service or security experience highly preferred.
• Must have or be qualified to obtain a Level 2 Non-Commissioned Security Guard license with the Texas Department of Public Safety.
• Must pass a national criminal background check to maintain non-commission status through the Texas Commission on Private Security.
• Valid state-issued ID or driver license required to complete the application process.
• Ability to remain alert and observant over long periods.
• Bilingual skills are a plus.

Working Conditions and Physical Demands

• Ability to stand and walk for long periods, including using stairs.
• Accurate vision (20/20 or 20/40 with corrective lenses acceptable).
• Ability to distinguish standard colors.
• Ability to hear normal conversation at a distance of 15 feet.
• Duties require standing for long periods, walking distances, and climbing stairs throughout the work shift.
• Working conditions may be indoors or outside, including exposure to inclement weather.

Pay

$16.50 per hour. Overtime available.

Schedule

35–40-hour work week, including evenings, weekends, holidays, and private events outside regular public hours.

Benefits

• Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance: Employee and dependent coverage through a choice of managed health care programs, two dental plan options, and a vision program. Coverage begins the first of the month following employment.
• Life and Long-Term Disability Insurance: Employee coverage at no cost.
• Retirement Savings Plan (403b): Staff may contribute to the MFAH Retirement Savings Plan. Eligible staff receive up to a 5% matching contribution from the MFAH after one year of service (prior nonprofit service may accelerate employer match).
• Paid Time Off:
  • Paid Time Off (PTO): Used for vacation, short-term illness, and personal reasons. Hours accrue biweekly based on employment status, length of service, and hours worked.
  • Reserve Time Off: Used for extended illnesses. Employees accrue up to 6 days per year, up to a maximum of 120 days.
  • Holidays: Full-time employees receive ten paid holidays per year.
  • Volunteer Time Off: Employees receive up to 40 hours of paid time off annually to volunteer in the community.
• MFAH Membership: Free Family-level membership for staff.
• Discounts: Staff receive discounts on purchases at the Museum shop, on-campus eateries, and the Glassell School of Art.
• Metro Commuter Subsidy: Available upon request.