Launch the Legacy: Founding Staff Roles

Step into history as a founding staff member of the Obama Presidential Center’s (OPC) opening team. As a founding staff member, you will not only help launch a global destination but also have the unique opportunity to define the Obama Presidential Center's earliest culture and operational excellence. This is your chance to contribute to a lasting legacy, ensuring the OPC is a powerful tribute to what happens when communities unite to achieve greatness.

The early days of the OPC will be defined by rapid evolution and growth. While the mission is clear, many of the day-to-day procedures and workflows will need to be tested and adjusted. This demands that you embrace ambiguity and step up with a high degree of ownership and self-direction. For those energized by the chance to build and ultimately define best practices, this challenge is the greatest reward.

Purpose of the Role

The Security Officer for the Obama Presidential Center will be responsible for ensuring the safety and security of the Obama Presidential Center’s guests, staff, and property. This position will be assigned a designated patrol area to respond to guest concerns, security threats, and to establish a welcoming but secure environment. During each shift, the Officer will wear a uniform provided by the Obama Presidential Center. Officers will be responsible for providing direction during an emergency situation, and designated patrol areas may change based on campus needs.

As a Security Officer for the Obama Presidential Center, you will be reporting directly to a Security Supervisor, who will also provide day-to-day support.

Core Job Responsibilities

• Maintain high visibility around the Center, sharing a welcoming and respectful presence.

• Ensure the safety of visitors and staff by monitoring behavior, addressing any suspicious activities, and enforcing security policies and procedures. Provide guidance on safety protocols and emergency procedures (i.e., fire, active shooter, civil unrest, HazMat, etc.).

• Monitor and patrol the premises to prevent theft, vandalism, and unauthorized access. Ensure that all security systems (i.e., alarms, surveillance cameras, etc.), are operational.

• Greet visitors, share Obama Presidential Center information and directions with guests. Screen guests as defined in security protocols. Manage and monitor access points ensuring that only authorized personnel and visitors enter restricted areas.

• When necessary, implement emergency response protocols or responses.

• Work closely with local law enforcement and emergency services to ensure a coordinated response to security threats or incidents.

• Ensure the security and preservation of valuable artifacts and exhibits while protecting items from physical damage and/or theft.

• Enforce organizational policies and procedures related to security, including those governing visitor behavior, photography, and handling of exhibits.

Key Deliverables / Outcomes

• Maintain assigned sector/campus area with a clear presence, working alongside Visitor Experience staff when applicable to facilitate a welcoming and safe environment.

• Manage and monitor access to the facility, including issuing and tracking identification badges, controlling entry points, and ensuring that only authorized personnel have access to sensitive areas.

• Provide excellent customer service by greeting guests and providing introductory information as needed to answer questions including campus layout, service locations, etc.

• Operate and monitor security cameras and surveillance systems. Regularly review footage to deter and investigate suspicious behavior or incidents.

• Participate in training, drills, and certification processes to further the safety of self, staff, guests, and property.

• Respond to, document, and report any incidents, breaches, or security concerns. Accurately document and report any security incidents, including breaches, accidents, or unusual activities. Maintain detailed records and provide reports to management as required.

• Regularly assess and evaluate security risks and vulnerabilities. Propose measures to mitigate these risks and enhance the overall security posture of the facility.

Required Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required.

• 1-2 years prior security, law enforcement, or military experience preferred

• Valid state Security Guard License preferred

• Current CPR/First Aid/AED certification preferred or required within 60 days of hire.

• Experience with security monitoring systems and incident reporting is a plus.

• Experience or interest in working in a direct-facing role with the general public and utilizing security technology systems.

• Strong observational and problem-solving abilities.

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.

• Ability to remain calm and professional in stressful or emergency situations.

• Comfortable using radios, security software, and electronic reporting tools.

• Attention to detail and ability to follow procedures consistently.

• Commitment to Obama Presidential Center mission and an inclusive environment

• Ability to work out of the Obama Presidential Center in Jackson Park and/or other Obama Foundation locations in Chicago.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand and walk on foot for extended periods of time, patrol large areas, and respond quickly to security incidents.

• Ability to lift up to 25–50 lbs as needed.

• Ability to climb stairs, conduct foot patrols, and operate security equipment.

Work Conditions

• Strong observational and problem-solving abilities.

• Must be able to work evenings, nights, weekends, and holidays as needed.

• Must be willing to work outdoors and indoors in varying weather conditions.

The pay rate for this role is $20.00/hour.

This is a full-time, in-person role based at the Obama Presidential Center in Jackson Park.

Don’t check off every box in the requirements listed above? Please apply anyway! Studies have shown that marginalized communities - such as women, LGBTQ+ and people of color - are less likely to apply to jobs unless they meet every single qualification. The Obama Foundation is dedicated to building an inclusive, diverse, equitable, and accessible workplace that fosters a sense of belonging – so if you’re excited about this role but your past experience doesn’t align perfectly with every qualification in the job description, we encourage you to still consider submitting an application. You may be just the right candidate for this role or another one of our openings!

Equal Opportunity Employer

The Foundation is committed to creating a diverse work environment and is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. The Foundation does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, gender identity, religion, sexual orientation, age, disability, parental status, veteran status, or any other protected status under applicable laws. We encourage individuals of all backgrounds to apply. If you are a qualified candidate with a disability, please e-mail us at [email protected] if you require a reasonable accommodation to complete this application.

We are deeply committed to creating an actively anti-racist organization, leveraging our global reach to combat systemic racism and inequity wherever it exists. Read our full statement on anti-racism and equity here.