On-Call Security Officer - Special Events

Museum of Fine Arts, Houston•West University Place, TX

7d•Onsite

About The Position

The Museum Special Events Security Officer supports the safety of the Museum’s world-class collections, facilities, and guests while delivering a welcoming experience for all visitors attending our robust special events calendar. This role offers an excellent opportunity to build real-world skills, work alongside experienced staff, and be part of some of Houston’s most exciting cultural events — all on a flexible, on-call schedule with irregular hours ideal for those balancing multiple priorities. From a security staffing standpoint, MFAH “special events” fall into a few distinct categories: High-attendance, after-hours events (requiring elevated security, alcohol monitoring, crowd flow control), Festival / campus-wide events (multi-location coverage, heavy guest services + security coordination), Exhibition-driven programming (focus on gallery protection + VIP presence), and Recurring programs (lower intensity but high frequency). The museum hosts hundreds of events annually (many weekly/daily), and a portion are considered “special events” in a security. The above list prioritizes named, ticketed, or large-scale events, and events with operational complexity (crowds, after-hours, alcohol, multi-site). This list does not include private events. This is your chance to gain hands-on experience in a world-class cultural institution, explore the fields of hospitality, events, and security, and earn competitive pay — all on a flexible, event-driven schedule.

Requirements

No prior security experience required; previous experience in customer service, hospitality, events, or a public-facing role is a plus
Strong customer service mindset with ability to interact with the public to analyze situations and anticipate needs of guests and staff
Availability for a flexible, event-driven schedule, including evenings, weekends, and holidays
Must be tactful and polite in dealing with the public, which includes the ability to remain calm under pressure
Comfort interacting with diverse audiences, including Museum patrons, members, donors, and VIP guests
Must be proficient in English, both written and verbal communications skills
Present a neat and professional appearance at all times
Ability to remain alert and observant over a long period of time, which includes the ability to stand for those long periods of time
High school diploma or equivalent.
Must have in good standing or be qualified to obtain - level 2 Non-Commissioned Security Guard license with Texas Department of Public Safety.
Security personnel must pass a national criminal background check in order to maintain non-commission status through the Texas Commission on Private Security.
All applicants are required to have a valid state issued ID or driver license in order to complete the application process.
Able to pass pre-employment job-specific physical skills assessment.

Responsibilities

Provide a professional, highly visible security presence during special events to ensure the safety of visitors, staff, artwork, and facilities
Safeguard the Museum’s collections by monitoring galleries and event spaces and enforcing proximity and handling guidelines
Manage access control points, including guest check-in, credential verification, and restricted area access
Conduct routine patrols of assigned areas, remaining alert to safety, security, or facility concerns
Respond promptly and effectively to incidents, emergencies, or disruptions, escalating as appropriate
Support crowd management and event flow, including directing guests and maintaining clear pathways
Enforce Museum policies and event guidelines with a strong emphasis on customer service and de-escalation
Collaborate closely with Special Event, Membership and Guest Services, curatorial and development staff, and external vendors to support seamless event execution
As needed, prepare clear, accurate, and timely incident and activity reports
Assist with emergency procedures, including evacuations and coordination with first responders as needed