Security Associate

About the Role

The Security Officer position at the California Academy of Sciences emphasizes guest interaction and customer service. Reporting to a Security Shift Supervisor, this role provides security, safety, and guest services in public and non-public areas of the Academy. The role requires good observation, discretion, professional writing, speaking, and public relations skills. Physical ability to stand at indoor and outdoor posts, operate doors, and climb stairs is necessary. Availability to work weekends, evenings, and holidays is required, as the Academy is open 365 days a year.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide for the safety and security of guests, staff, and visitors through keen observation and proper reporting.
• Ensure the security and protection of Academy property, including animals, exhibits, facilities, and assets, through keen observation and reporting.
• Deliver the Academy’s Platinum Guest Experience by seeking out guest contact, welcoming guests, proactively offering assistance, and providing information.
• Interact with the public regarding the Academy’s mission, programs, and exhibits.
• Interact with Academy employees, volunteers, contractors, and visitors regarding security and safety procedures.
• Respond with a first aid kit and perform basic first aid and CPR. Operate an AED and administer emergency oxygen.
• Enforce the Academy’s access control policies.
• Provide building security, door security, opening and closing of public and non-public areas, and conducting building rounds.
• Verify and record the identification and clearance of staff and visitors.
• Interview individuals and prepare incident reports using a computerized records system.
• Assist in the general upkeep and maintenance of the facility.
• Respond to emergencies and assist in directing crowds during evacuations.
• Use a computer for incident reporting, visitor management, correspondence, and training.
• Follow all Academy safety regulations.
• Other duties as assigned.

Requirements & Tech Stack

• Basic First Aid, CPR, AED, and Emergency Oxygen certifications (or ability to obtain).
• California Guard Card (or ability to obtain and maintain).
• CIPS certification issued by the IFCPP (or ability to obtain).
• Basic computer skills.
• Ability to communicate clearly via a handheld radio device.
• Ability to use a computer for incident reporting, visitor management, correspondence, and training.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Customer service or guest-facing experience is a plus.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills.
• Ability to interact well with Academy guests, staff, volunteers, and visitors.
• Ability to work well with a team.
• Ability to listen, accept feedback gracefully, and integrate it.
• Ability to keenly observe and accurately report irregularities.
• Ability to take appropriate action in emergency situations.
• Willingness and ability to work shifts at varied times as needed.
• Ability to attend and successfully complete regular training.

Physical Environment

• Frequently required to stand at a post for long periods.
• Required to patrol the main floor and conduct building rounds.
• Ability to sit at a post.
• Ability to be posted outdoors while exposed to various weather conditions.
• Ability to reach out with hands and arms.
• Must be able to lift 50 pounds.
• Must be able to perform repetitive motions 10% of the time.

Compensation and Benefits

• The hourly rate for this position is $25.00.
• Actual compensation will be commensurate with the final candidate's qualifications and experience.
• The Academy offers a total compensation package that emphasizes both base salary and comprehensive benefits.

Schedule

• Seasonal, on-call position with the possibility of extension or reevaluation at the end of the season.