Security Associate

Working Title: Security Associate

Position Type: Part-time (Wage/Hourly)

FLSA Status: Non-Exempt: Eligible for Overtime

Department: Security Services

Pay Rate: $14.24 an hour

** This position is open until filled. Please note that this posting may close at any time after five (5) business days, as applications are reviewed on a rolling basis. Multiple vacancies may be filled through this recruitment. **

About Virginia Museum of Fine Arts:

The Virginia Museum of Fine Arts (VMFA) in Richmond, Virginia, is one of the largest comprehensive art museums in the United States. VMFA, which opened in 1936, is a state agency and privately endowed educational institution. Its purpose is to collect, preserve, exhibit and interpret art, and to encourage the study of the arts.

VMFA is the only art museum in the United States open 365 days a year with free general admission.

About Security Services:

The Department of Security Services is dedicated to maintaining a safe and secure environment for all staff, volunteers, and visitors to the museum and its campus. This includes safeguarding the buildings, property, and art collections from all potential threats.  This is achieved through several key functions: regular patrols of the museum and grounds; enforcement of established rules and regulations; surveillance and monitoring using cameras and other technologies; providing assistance to visitors and employees; reporting and responding to potential hazards and suspicious activities; and responding to emergency situations. These efforts directly support the Commonwealth of Virginia's cultural enrichment goals and align with the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts' strategic plan.

General Information:

We are currently seeking applications for composed and attentive individuals to join our Security Services Department as a Security Associate.

The Security Associate role offers a unique opportunity to combine your interest in art, public service, and museum operations. As a Security Associate, you'll play a vital role in safeguarding artwork and assisting visitors, all while gaining a comprehensive understanding of museum operations—an excellent stepping stone for those considering a career in the museum field.

This entry-level position provides a flexible schedule of up to 28 hours per week (minimum 20 hours per week), with an annual maximum of 1,490 hours (May 1 – April 30).

Minimum Qualifications:

• Knowledge of customer service principles, practices, and techniques.
• Demonstrates sound judgment to ensure the safety of artwork and the well-being of visitors.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Proficiency in reading and documenting incident details for reporting purposes.
• Proven ability to build and maintain positive working relationships.
• Adaptability in quickly learning and utilizing various computer applications.
• Position requires walking or standing for extended periods within the galleries. Requests for accommodations will be considered in accordance with the ADA process.
• Availability to work nights, weekends, and holidays.

Additional Considerations:

Prior experience in fine retail services, hospitality industry, or private security.

Special Instructions:

You will be provided a confirmation of receipt when your application and/or résumé is submitted successfully. Please refer to “Your Application” in your account to check the status of your application for this position.

All applicants must submit an online application. 

Please provide three professional references, including their full name, phone number, and email address. References should be able to speak to your qualifications for the position and may be included in your resume or cover letter or attached separately in the portal’s "other" field.

Diverse and inclusive hiring practices are at the heart of what we do at the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts. In support of the Commonwealth’s commitment to inclusion, we are encouraging individuals with disabilities to apply through the Commonwealth Alternative Hiring Process. To be considered for this opportunity, applicants will need to provide their AHP Letter (formerly COD) provided by the Department for Aging & Rehabilitative Services (DARS), or the Department for the Blind & Vision Impaired (DBVI). Service-Connected Veterans are encouraged to answer Veteran status questions and submit their disability documentation, if applicable, to DARS/DBVI to get their AHP Letter. Requesting an AHP Letter can be found at AHP Letter or by calling DARS at 800-552-5019.

VMFA is a Virginia Values Veterans (V3) Certified Employer. 

Conditions of Employment:  

Employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a criminal background check.

E-Verify Notice: After accepting employment, new hires are required to complete an I-9 form and present documentation of their identity and eligibility to work in the United States. Virginia Museum of Fine Arts uses the E-Verify system to confirm identity and work authorization.

Contact Information

Please contact the HR office at recruitment@vmfa.museum if you need assistance.

Name: Human Resources Services

Phone: For the most up-to-date status of your application, please refer to your Jobs.Virginia.Gov account. We do not provide application status updates via phone.

Email: recruitment@vmfa.museum for recruitment related questions.

Emailed applications, resumes, or cover letters will not be accepted. For the most up-to-date status of your application, please refer to your Jobs.Virginia.Gov account.