Science Museum Jobs in New York (NOW HIRING)

Position Title

Rate of Pay 

Museum Attendant Guard (Overnight)

$19.14/hour plus shift differential

Department 

Work Location

Safety and Security 

100% On-Site

Reports to

Work Schedule

Head of Safety and Security 

Friday – Tuesday, 11PM – 8AM

FLSA Status 

Position Classification

Union – Non-Exempt

Full-Time, Regular, Non-Supervisory, Union-Eligible

 Since its founding at the 1964-65 New York World’s Fair, the New York Hall of Science (NYSCI) has inspired millions of people — children, teachers, and families — by offering innovative, participatory ways to learn and encouraging people to explore their curiosity and nurture their creativity. Located in Queens, the most ethnically diverse county in the country, NYSCI welcomes 400,000 visitors each year and serves thousands more through outreach in schools, teacher professional development, and participation in a variety of public events and research initiatives. 

NYSCI is a leader in the science museum field, recognized for its highly regarded exhibitions, programs, and products, all of which are informed by our inclusive, research-derived approach to STEM learning and engagement called Design, Make, Play. The defining characteristics of Design, Make, Play — open-ended exploration, imaginative learning, personal relevance, deep engagement, and delight — are the ingredients that invite broad participation in STEM and make engagement and learning irresistible. Through this transformative model for STEM exploration, NYSCI engages a broad community of learners in STEM, by fostering the excitement of self-directed exploration and by tapping into the joy of learning intrinsic in young people’s play. NYSCI has approximately 102 full-time and over 150 part-time and casual staff members. 

POSITION OVERVIEW

The New York Hall of Science seeks an experienced Museum Attendant Guard to join its dedicated Security Team. Guards are responsible for ensuring the safety of visitors and staff, patrolling assigned areas, and protecting exhibits, buildings, and grounds. Guards also support overall operations, including general cleaning responsibilities, and assist guests.

PRINCIPAL RESPONSIBILITIES

• Protect exhibits and Museum property, patrolling assigned areas, buildings, and grounds
• Guard and protect exhibits, displays, and mountings, etc., from loss or damage due to theft, vandalism, fire, etc
• Provide the highest level of customer service during interactions with all guests
• Advise guests of the location of other exhibit halls, restrooms, etc. Answer questions where possible and refer guests to others when appropriate
• Monitor visitor behavior and encourage compliance with safety measures and guidance among visitors of all ages, either in organized groups or as individuals.
• Maintain order in the areas of assignment and assist in the detection and ejection of disorderly persons
• Report any damage to exhibits, unsafe conditions, loose floor tiles, torn window shades, etc.
• Report any unusual occurrences, such as minor accidents, and other cases requiring additional help or escalation
• Escalate any report of lost children or other persons in need and assistance in relevant search efforts as directed
• Perform fire watch duties as directed and assist in the emergency evacuation of visitors and staff when required
• When assigned to night shifts, perform safety and hazard patrols throughout public and all non-public areas
• Follow the guest sign-in procedures and monitor business guests
• Monitor the loading dock and assist in the facilitation of deliveries and loading

Additional Related functions

• May operate freight and passenger elevators
• Performs various cleaning activities as assigned
• Maintain proper temperatures during the heating season as trained.
• Other related duties and responsibilities, as assigned

QUALIFICATIONS

• High School Diploma or equivalent
• Effective written and oral communication skills
• Knowledge of security protocols and best practices
• Experienced in best practices in de-escalation
• Prior experience managing high-volume groups and visitor traffic
• Experienced CCTV and Surveillance technology operator

REQUIREMENTS

• 2+ years of prior Security experience in a Museum or Cultural Institution setting
• Previous customer service experience
• FDNY Certificate of Fitness, F-03
• Must possess and maintain current, valid New York State Security Guard Registration from New York State (8) hour and (16) hour training certification
• Strong computer skills
• Flexible availability to work day, mid-shift, and night guard shifts, including weekends, holidays, and special events as needed.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

• Visual and Auditory Acuity: Sharp visual and auditory skills for monitoring surveillance systems, identifying potential security threats, and responding promptly to alarms and other alerts.
• Prolonged Standing and Walking: Ability to stand and walk for extended periods, often up to 8 hours or more, while patrolling museum exhibits and grounds.
• Lifting and Carrying: Capability to lift and carry objects weighing up to 50 pounds, including security equipment and emergency supplies.
• Climbing Stairs: Proficiency in quickly climbing multiple flights of stairs in emergencies or to access different areas of the museum.
• Bending and Reaching: Flexibility to bend, kneel, and reach overhead to inspect areas, assist visitors, and handle security equipment.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• High School Diploma or equivalent
• Bilingual and Multilingual language
• Previous security guard experience
• Previous customer service experience
• FDNY Certificate of Fitness, F-03
• First Aid and CPR Training, within the past 12 months (preferred)

NYSCI strives to be an inclusive place to work. We work to foster multiple voices and perspectives, empower staff as problem solvers, and support professional growth for all. 

The New York Hall of Science also offers generous benefits and perks for all regular full-time employees. These currently include: