Armed Security Officer (eVOLV Access Control) in Charleston, South Carolina at International African American Museum

International African American Museum (IAAM)
Charleston, SC
Starting Pay: $23.00 per hour

The International African American Museum (IAAM) is seeking professional, customer service-oriented Full-Time Armed Security Officers to support the safety and security of our museum campus.

As one of the first people our guests encounter, you play an essential role in creating a welcoming, respectful, and secure environment while protecting one of the nation's most significant cultural institutions. Security Officers serve as ambassadors of IAAM's mission by balancing hospitality, accessibility, and safety for every visitor, staff member, contractor, and volunteer who enters our sacred space.

This position is responsible for operating the eVolv Express® Weapons Detection System, monitoring access control, conducting security patrols, responding to incidents, and helping ensure a safe experience for everyone on campus.

• Starting pay of $23.00 per hour
• Full-time position
• Two shifts available: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and 12 noon to 8 p.m.

• Free employee parking (valued at more than $6,000 annually)
• Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
• Life Insurance
• Short-Term Disability Insurance
• 403(b) Retirement Plan
• Complimentary IAAM Membership
• Reciprocal membership benefits at participating museums nationwide

• Up to 80 hours of vacation leave with tenure-based increases
• Up to 96 hours of paid sick leave
• 10 paid holidays

The Armed Security Officer is responsible for maintaining a safe, secure, and welcoming environment for all guests, employees, contractors, vendors, and visitors. Officers provide professional access control, monitor museum property, conduct patrols, respond to emergencies, and support daily operations while delivering exceptional customer service.

Successful candidates are calm under pressure, exercise sound judgment, communicate effectively with diverse audiences, and demonstrate professionalism, integrity, and strong situational awareness.

• Operate and monitor the eVolv Express® Weapons Detection System and related access control equipment.
• Screen guests, staff, contractors, vendors, and deliveries entering the museum.
• Verify identification, credentials, and authorized access.
• Conduct secondary screening in accordance with IAAM policies and procedures.
• Monitor visitor flow to ensure safe and efficient entry.
• Conduct routine interior and exterior patrols of galleries, public spaces, grounds, waterfront areas, and parking facilities.
• Monitor surveillance systems and inspect museum property for safety and security concerns.
• Observe, document, and report suspicious activity, prohibited items, or unsafe conditions.
• Respond appropriately to emergencies, including medical incidents, fire alarms, severe weather, disturbances, evacuations, and other critical situations.
• Coordinate with law enforcement, fire, EMS, and other emergency responders when necessary.
• Investigate security incidents and, when appropriate, safely detain individuals until law enforcement arrives.
• Conduct after-hours security checks of doors, gates, windows, and other access points.
• Escort unauthorized individuals, trespassers, or disruptive persons from museum property when appropriate.
• Assist with crowd management during special events, school programs, and periods of high visitation.
• Provide exceptional customer service by welcoming guests, answering questions, providing directions, and assisting with ADA accommodations.
• Complete Daily Activity Reports (DARs), incident reports, and other required documentation accurately and promptly.
• Maintain a professional appearance and demeanor consistent with IAAM standards.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

• Current South Carolina SLED Armed Security Officer registration required.
• Must possess a valid South Carolina Concealed Weapons Permit (CWP) at the time of hire or obtain one within the required hiring timeframe.
• Must successfully pass a SLED background investigation.
• High school diploma or GED preferred.
• Previous verified security experience required.
• Current CPR and First Aid certification, or the ability to obtain both within 30 days of hire.
• Valid driver's license with a clean driving record.
• Excellent customer service, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Strong judgment, professionalism, and attention to detail.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and prepare accurate written reports.
• Basic computer proficiency.
• Experience in a museum, hospitality, luxury service, cultural institution, or other public-facing environment is preferred.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively as part of a team.

• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods.
• Frequent indoor and outdoor work in varying weather conditions.
• Ability to lift, bend, reach, climb stairs, and perform routine patrols.
• Frequent interaction with the public in a high-traffic environment.
• Ability to remain alert, observant, and responsive throughout the workday.

At IAAM, security is more than protection—it is hospitality, stewardship, and service. We seek professionals who are committed to creating a safe, respectful, and welcoming experience while helping preserve and protect a place dedicated to honoring the African American journey through education, reflection, and remembrance.

The International African American Museum is an Equal Opportunity Employer and values diversity in its workforce.