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Museum Security Guard Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Part Time Guard II

Triangle, VA · On-site

$27.43/hr

Alarm Monitor / Security Officer - National Museum of the Marine Corps (Quantico, VA) Akima has an ... Must have a minimum of 2 years of prior Law Enforcement, Security Guard, or Military experience.

2nd Shift Supervisor

Potomac, MD · On-site

$75K - $88K/yr

Salary Range $75,000 - $88,000 per year An Introduction to Glenstone Museum Founded with the ... Key Responsibilities * Manage, train, and coach the security guard team. Responsible for ...

Part Time Guard II

Triangle, VA · On-site

$27.43/hr

Alarm Monitor / Security Officer - National Museum of the Marine Corps (Quantico, VA) Akima has an ... Must have a minimum of 2 years of prior Law Enforcement, Security Guard, or Military experience.

Part Time Guard II

Quantico, VA · On-site

$27.43/hr

... Security Officers to serve at the National Museum of the Marine Corps in Quantico, VA. Sunik ... Must have a minimum of 2 years of prior Law Enforcement, Security Guard, or Military experience.

Lieutenant

Washington, DC · On-site

$35.97/hr

... Museum located in Washington DC. Various full-time shifts are available for those who possess a minimum of three years of security experience within the past five years and are looking to become part ...

Lieutenant

Reston, VA · On-site

$35.97/hr

... Museum located in Washington DC. Various full-time shifts are available for those who possess a minimum of three years of security experience within the past five years and are looking to become part ...

Museum Security Guard information

See Washington salary details

$13

$21

$28

How much do museum security guard jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for museum security guard in Washington is $21.56, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.40 and $21.25 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a museum security guard?

Museum Security Guards are professionals responsible for protecting museum property, exhibits, and visitors. They monitor galleries, patrol the premises, and enforce security policies to prevent theft, vandalism, and other incidents. These guards may also assist with emergency procedures, provide information to visitors, and respond to alarms or suspicious activity. Their presence ensures a safe and secure environment for both the artifacts and the public.

What are some typical challenges museum security guards face during their shifts?

Museum Security Guards often encounter challenges such as balancing visitor engagement with vigilant supervision of exhibits, adapting to varying visitor volumes during special events, and responding quickly to alarms or suspicious activity. They must remain attentive to both the safety of valuable artifacts and the comfort of guests, sometimes managing difficult situations with professionalism and tact. Additionally, guards regularly collaborate with museum staff and law enforcement to ensure comprehensive protection and smooth operation within the museum.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a museum security guard, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Museum Security Guard, you need knowledge of security protocols, strong observational skills, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with surveillance systems, access control technology, and sometimes CPR or first aid certification is typically required. Attention to detail, calmness under pressure, and excellent communication skills help guards respond effectively to incidents and interact with visitors. These skills are crucial for protecting valuable exhibits, ensuring visitor safety, and maintaining a secure museum environment.

What is the difference between Museum Security Guard vs Security Officer?

AspectMuseum Security GuardSecurity Officer
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; security training; sometimes specialized museum security certificationsHigh school diploma or equivalent; security training; often similar certifications
Work EnvironmentMuseums, galleries, cultural institutionsVarious settings including commercial, industrial, residential, and public spaces
Employer & IndustryMuseums, art galleries, cultural institutionsSecurity companies, private firms, organizations across multiple industries
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

The primary difference between a Museum Security Guard and a Security Officer lies in their work environment and specific responsibilities. Museum Security Guards focus on protecting valuable artifacts and ensuring visitor safety within cultural institutions, often requiring specialized knowledge of museum policies. Security Officers work across various industries and environments, providing general security services. Both roles require similar credentials and training, but their daily duties and settings differ significantly.

What are popular job titles related to Museum Security Guard jobs in Washington?

For Museum Security Guard jobs in Washington, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Museum Security Guard job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,840 per year, or $21.6 per hour.

$23.70 - $25/hr

Full-time, Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 6 days ago


Job description

Position
Security Officer
Reports To
Security Shift Supervisor
Shift Available
2nd Shift: 2:45pm - 11:00pm
Wage Range
$23.70 - $25.00 per hour
An Introduction to Glenstone Museum
Founded with the mission to seamlessly integrate art, architecture, and nature, Glenstone is a world-class contemporary art museum in Potomac, Maryland. Opened in 2006 and expanded in 2018, the museum welcomes visitors to a unique experience of indoor and outdoor spaces enveloped by 300 acres of organically maintained meadow and woodlands. Admission is always free.
The work culture at Glenstone is dynamic and team oriented. As a mission-driven nonprofit, we are proud to foster a workplace where associates feel valued, respected, and accepted. We leverage our collaborative and enriching culture to provide abundant opportunities for all associates to develop new skills, feel connected to our mission, and actively participate in advancing their careers.
Position Overview
The Security Officer interacts regularly with the public, making it one of the most essential roles at Glenstone. As a member of the security team, you will have a critical role in protecting Glenstone staff and visitors, a world-class art collection, 300+ acres of rolling meadows and forests, and buildings designed by renowned architects.

Glenstone Museum is a privately funded nonprofit that operates with the rigor and best practices of a successful business. Security Officers at Glenstone work with a first-rate security team, learn and participate in best practices, and work in an environment that includes state-of-the-art technology and systems.

Key Responsibilities
  • Monitoring access control via state-of-the-art security software platforms
  • Conduct regular, thorough patrols of buildings and grounds.
  • Evaluate situations to determine any hazards or dangers and take appropriate action to protect the safety of staff, visitors, and property.
  • Monitor building security by regularly inspecting doors, windows, gates, and locks and completing daily logs to ensure thorough, accurate record keeping.
  • Perform building opening and/or closing procedures including locking and unlocking doors and arming and disarming alarms.
  • Conduct regular surveillance of all security systems including cameras, fence alarms, key access control, and card access.
  • Work in the Gatehouse when assigned, serving as the first point of contact and access control for the staff and vendor entrance.
  • Work in the state-of-the-art control room that monitors the 200+ acre site as well as the interior and exterior of the museums and other buildings.
  • Operate vehicles to safely transport staff and equipment around the site.
  • Ensure positive interaction and welcoming environment for all visitors.

Required Skills amp; Experience
  • Strong cultural competence, interpersonal communication, planning, and organizational skills.
  • High school graduate or equivalent.
  • Valid driver’s license and ability to operate a motor vehicle with standard transmission.
  • Able to read and write clearly and concisely in English and converse intelligently over the telephone and two-way radio.
  • Proficient in Microsoft Word, Outlook, and web browsing.
  • Able to work off-hour events and weekends on occasion as needed and available for 24/7 emergency contact.
  • Proficiency with electronic systems including access control, intrusion detection, fire detection/ suppression, and video surveillance.
  • Able to walk, run, jump, crawl, climb steep stairs and ladders, bend, stoop, work with hands above shoulder level and safely lift and operate a 50-pound fire extinguisher.
  • Able to see 20/20 or have corrected vision of 20/40 and to hear normal conversation.
  • CPR Certification, Certified First Responder, and AED Certification or the ability to earn certification within the first 30 days of employment with the support of Glenstone.
  • Must be able to pass a pre-employment drug screening and a physical fitness test.
  • Maryland Security Guard Card preferred but not required before employment.
  • Maryland Security Guard Card required within 90 days of employment.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Associate degree or sixty credits from an accredited institution
  • Designation as a Certified Institutional Protection Specialist (IFCPP) and/or Certified Protection Professional (ASIS).
  • Certified in: First Aid, AED, CPR, Basic Life Support, Emergency Medical Response, or ability to obtain within 30-days of employment.

Salary and Benefits
This is a full-time position. Glenstone offers a competitive salary commensurate with experience and provides a total benefits package that helps you manage your health, protect your income, and prepare for the future. Benefits include medical, dental, and vision insurance; life, long-term disability, and AD amp;D insurance, a Flexible Spending Account (FSA); a 401(k)-retirement account with a matching contribution; an Employee Assistance Program (EAP); and tuition reimbursement.
We are an equal-opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.