Director of Security

This role presents an opportunity for an experienced security leader to oversee and strengthen the security operations of a prominent cultural and educational institution that welcomes hundreds of thousands of visitors each year. The Director of Security will be responsible for ensuring a safe and secure environment for staff, guests, volunteers, and community partners. The ideal candidate brings deep expertise in physical security operations, emergency preparedness, and law enforcement collaboration, along with strong leadership skills to manage personnel, training programs, and security infrastructure. This position plays a critical role in protecting people, facilities, and mission-critical programs within a highly visible public-facing organization.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the planning, evaluation, and continuous improvement of comprehensive security operations to ensure compliance with federal, state, and local regulations, as well as recognized industry standards and best practices.
• Oversee day-to-day security operations, including supervision of internal security staff and contracted personnel, ensuring professionalism, preparedness, and adherence to established protocols.
• Investigate and document security incidents, breaches, or threats and provide timely reports and recommendations to senior leadership.
• Develop and maintain emergency management and contingency plans, including procedures for threat response, evacuation, and crisis management.
• Serve as a visible security leader and organizational representative during emergencies or security-related incidents.
• Manage access control systems, building badges, surveillance systems, and other security technologies to ensure effective monitoring and protection of facilities.
• Maintain relationships with local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies, as well as peer institutions and security vendors.
• Coordinate annual law enforcement simulation exercises and joint preparedness activities.
• Design and deliver internal security training programs for staff and volunteers to ensure awareness and readiness.
• Develop and manage the annual security operating budget, ensuring effective allocation of resources and equipment.

Qualifications & Experience

• Minimum of 7 years of professional security experience, including at least 5 years in a supervisory or leadership capacity within security operations, law enforcement, or a related field.
• Experience overseeing security programs in complex public environments such as cultural institutions, museums, educational organizations, or similar venues is strongly valued.
• Demonstrated experience in emergency planning, incident management, and coordination with law enforcement or government agencies.
• Bachelor’s degree preferred; relevant professional training and experience will also be considered.
• Ability to work a flexible schedule, including evenings and weekends as operational needs require.

Preferred Professional Certifications (one or more):

• Certified Protection Professional (CPP)
• Physical Security Professional (PSP)
• Professional Certified Investigator (PCI)
• Certified Institutional Protection Manager (CIPM)
• Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP)
• Certified Information Security Manager (CISM)
• Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA)

Key Competencies & Attributes

• Strong leadership and team management capabilities with the ability to guide and develop security personnel.
• High level of discretion and commitment to maintaining confidentiality in sensitive situations.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills with the ability to collaborate across departments and with external partners.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities to assess risks and implement effective security solutions.
• Proficiency with security technology systems, surveillance platforms, and access control infrastructure.
• Solid working knowledge of Microsoft Office and general reporting tools.
• Commitment to continuous learning and professional development for both self and team members.

Work Environment & Benefits

This position operates in a dynamic public-facing environment that hosts educational programming, events, and high visitor traffic throughout the year. The Director of Security must be comfortable working in an active setting that requires both strategic oversight and operational involvement. Responsibilities may require extended periods on foot, occasional lifting of materials, and navigating multiple areas of the facility.

The organization offers a competitive compensation package with a salary range of $120,000 – $140,000, along with comprehensive benefits including medical, dental, and vision coverage, paid time off, and retirement plan contributions. The institution is committed to fostering an inclusive workplace and encourages candidates from diverse backgrounds and experiences to apply.