Gallery Guide

Founded in 1937, the Solomon R. Guggenheim Foundation is dedicated to promoting the understanding and appreciation of art, architecture, and other manifestations of visual culture, primarily of the modern and contemporary periods. The Guggenheim realizes this mission through exceptional exhibitions, education programs, research initiatives, and publications. The Guggenheim strives to engage and educate an increasingly diverse international audience through its unique network of museums and partnerships. With nearly three million annual visitors worldwide, the Guggenheim and its network is one of the most visited cultural institutions in the world.

SUMMARY OF POSITION:
Working independently, under the guidance of the Director of Security, the Gallery Guide will take an active role in supporting the day-to-day directives of their supervisors. Gallery Guides serve a unique dual role as both security guards and art educators, acting as key liaisons between visitors and artwork. They are responsible for the security and safety of the artwork and of visitors, and for actively encouraging visitors to discuss their questions and ideas about art. Gallery Guides will be trained in both New York State security regulations and current museum education practices and theory. Gallery Guides attend and actively participate in all (paid) trainings in security guard procedures, education techniques, and exhibition content. As frontline staff, they must always maintain a friendly and professional attitude towards visitors and staff. Through responsive, individual conversations, they make the museum a welcoming, accessible space for visitors.

SKILL AND EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS:

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with strong attention to detail.

• Flexibility and the ability to adapt to changing priorities.

• Ability to be proactive, use independent judgment, and initiative.

• Experience with security issues is a plus

• Experience working with the public (e.g. customer service, retail, teaching); knowledge of art history, studio art, and art education a plus but not required

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:
Duties may include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Ensure the safety of artwork in the museum in accordance with established security procedures such as keeping visitors at prescribed distances from artwork, monitoring the flow of visitors in the galleries, and reporting any incident involving visitors touching or damaging artwork.

• Ensure the safety of visitors and staff on the museum’s premises (assist with evacuation during emergencies, perform fireguard duties as trained, and report problems, suspicious activity, and safety hazards to a Supervisor).

• Secure various posts throughout the Museum, including gallery spaces and ramps. May be asked to assist with main door screening, coat room or other posts as needed.

• Invite and discuss visitor comments and questions about current exhibitions, the collection, the Frank Lloyd Wright building, the museum, and its history.

• Prepare for all exhibitions with thorough knowledge of curatorial content, museum education theory around inquiry-based teaching, and the work of various museum departments.

• Attend department meetings/huddles, read departmental memos, and remain aware of all policy updates.

WORK DEMANDS & ENVIRONMENT:::

• Must be able to stoop, kneel, crouch or crawl

• Ability to stand for multiple hours and remain alert at all times

• Weekend and Holiday work is required regularly.

• Ability to lift at least 25 lbs.

EDUCATION::

• High School Diploma or equivalent required.

CERTIFICATES, LICENSES, REGISTRATIONS::

• Must qualify for the New York State Security Guard Certification and possess a valid New York State ID (DMV-issued driver’s license or non-driver’s ID)

• Upon Hiring, the Guide will be asked to obtain electronic fingerprints, complete and pass the Guard Licensing class and exam to be conducted at the Museum

REPORTS TO::: :Associate Director, Security

LOCATION:: 1071 Fifth Avenue, New York, NY 10128

WORK SCHEDULE:: 40 Hours per Week, Schedule TBD

POSITION TYPE:: :Full-time, Non-Exempt

SALARY RANGE:: $23.00 per hour

The Guggenheim is dedicating itself to creating paths that lead to a more inclusive and diverse institution. We encourage inquiries from applicants who will reflect the plurality of our culture and our global audience. The Guggenheim does not discriminate on the basis of age, race, creed, color, religion, marital status, gender identity and/or expression, sexual orientation, veteran status, national origin or disability status.