Security Officer (Security Manager)

Overview

The Security Officer role involves managing a comprehensive security program dedicated to safeguarding all Smithsonian Institution-controlled and -managed sites. This role also includes oversight of physical security operations for one or more facilities within the institution.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide effective leadership by directing, mentoring, and empowering security staff, encompassing key supervisory functions such as recruitment, personnel training, workload distribution, performance evaluation, and addressing administrative and personnel matters to ensure a compliant and high-performing security operation.
• Manage physical security efforts by administering extensive security programs, planning systems, coordinating resources, and performing ongoing threat evaluations to maintain continuous, 24/7 protection of premises, staff, and valuable assets.
• Create and present security briefings, develop security plans, and offer expert recommendations to senior management focused on protecting exhibitions, collections, and facilities.
• Act as the primary on-site security consultant for the museum or complex, ensuring protection against diverse threats including vandalism, terrorism, and criminal activities, while delivering technical guidance for efficient and responsive security operations.

Qualifications and Requirements

• Successful completion of a Pre-employment Background Investigation.
• Possibility of undergoing a Probationary Period.
• Maintain an active bank account for direct deposit or electronic payment transactions.
• Males born after December 31, 1959, must have registration with the Selective Service System.
• Promotion candidates must meet qualification criteria, including one year of time-in-grade at the next lower grade, within 30 days after the job posting closes.
• No mandatory educational background requirements.
• Specialized experience for GS-12 level includes at least one year equivalent to GS-11 involving management of physical security and law enforcement within museums or cultural institutions, covering program planning, policy oversight, performance metric development, and reporting on security operations.
• For GS-13 level, specialized experience must include all GS-12 qualifications plus management of acquisition, installation, inspection, and maintenance of security devices.
• Applicants are encouraged to provide detailed, descriptive resume content that clearly outlines alignment with stated experience requirements, avoiding replication of vacancy announcement language.
• Both paid and unpaid experiences, such as volunteer service, will be evaluated for relevance and credit.

Additional Information

• This position is non-bargaining unit.
• Recruitment incentives may be authorized but are subject to availability and contingent upon service agreements.
• Applicants consent to sharing of their application materials with multiple SI hiring officials for consideration of similar roles at Smithsonian Institution locations.
• Candidates should demonstrate commitment to federal service efficiency, the principles of the American republic, adherence to the rule of law, and uphold the U.S. Constitution.
• The federal government offers a comprehensive benefits package including health insurance, life insurance, long term care insurance, retirement programs, flexible spending accounts, and leave benefits.