Security Officer (General Interest)

About the role

At The Obama Foundation, our mission is to inspire, empower, and connect people to change their world. We seek to build an active democratic culture where people are equipped and motivated to make change in the communities where they live, work, and play. Right here on the South Side of Chicago, we’re building a home for this vision, a global center for change with a range of opportunities - coordinated programming, community outreach events, educational moments, and more - that invite visitors from down the block or across the globe to turn hope into action. Achieving our ambitious goals starts with an exceptional team built on our Hope to Action Values - Courage, Empathy, Integrity, Accountability, Community, Inclusivity, Pragmatism, Resilience, Imagination, and Hope. A Framework that anyone, anywhere, can use to build trust, activate participation, and expand opportunity in their community. Purpose of the Role We're continuously accepting applications for our active openings over the next few months! We can't wait to see how your unique skills and perspective can help our mission thrive as we grow. The Security Officer for the Obama Presidential Center will be responsible for ensuring the safety and security of the Obama Presidential Center’s guests, staff, and property. This position will be assigned a designated patrol area to respond to guest concerns, security threats, and to establish a welcoming but secure environment. During each shift, the Officer will wear a uniform provided by the Obama Presidential Center. Officers will be responsible for providing direction during an emergency situation, and designated patrol areas may change based on campus needs. As a Security Officer for the Obama Presidential Center, you will be reporting directly to a Security Supervisor, who will also provide day-to-day support.

Responsibilities

• Maintain high visibility around the Center, sharing a welcoming and respectful presence.
• Ensure the safety of visitors and staff by monitoring behavior, addressing any suspicious activities, and enforcing security policies and procedures.
• Provide guidance on safety protocols and emergency procedures (i.e., fire, active shooter, civil unrest, HazMat, etc.).
• Monitor and patrol the premises to prevent theft, vandalism, and unauthorized access.
• Ensure that all security systems (i.e., alarms, surveillance cameras, etc.), are operational.
• Greet visitors, share Obama Presidential Center information and directions with guests.
• Screen guests as defined in security protocols.
• Manage and monitor access points ensuring that only authorized personnel and visitors enter restricted areas.
• When necessary, implement emergency response protocols or responses.
• Work closely with local law enforcement and emergency services to ensure a coordinated response to security threats or incidents.
• Ensure the security and preservation of valuable artifacts and exhibits while protecting items from physical damage and/or theft.
• Enforce organizational policies and procedures related to security, including those governing visitor behavior, photography, and handling of exhibits.
• Maintain assigned sector/campus area with a clear presence, working alongside Visitor Experience staff when applicable to facilitate a welcoming and safe environment.
• Manage and monitor access to the facility, including issuing and tracking identification badges, controlling entry points, and ensuring that only authorized personnel have access to sensitive areas.
• Provide excellent customer service by greeting guests and providing introductory information as needed to answer questions including campus layout, service locations, etc.
• Operate and monitor security cameras and surveillance systems. Regularly review footage to deter and investigate suspicious behavior or incidents.
• Participate in training, drills, and certification processes to further the safety of self, staff, guests, and property.