Public Safety Shift Lead

The Winterthur Museum, Garden & Library Public Safety Department is seeking a professional and experienced leader to join our Team. 

The Public Safety Shift Lead is responsible for supervising on-duty personnel and ensuring the safety and security of Winterthur's guests, employees, collections, and 1,000-acre estate. This role provides direct leadership during routine operations, special events, and emergency incidents while maintaining the highest standards of customer service and professionalism throughout the property.

JOB DESCRIPTION

The Public Safety Department has undergone significant modernization and growth, creating a structured, professional, and service-oriented public safety environment. We are seeking experienced leaders who value professionalism, accountability, teamwork, sound judgment, continuous learning, and a commitment to safety, security, and exceptional customer service.

The Public Safety Shift Lead is responsible for providing frontline leadership and operational oversight while ensuring the safety and security of Winterthur's staff, guests, visitors, collections, and physical assets. Serving as the on-duty supervisor, the Shift Lead coordinates daily operations, oversees Public Safety personnel, supports emergency response and incident management, and ensures adherence to departmental policies and procedures.

In addition to supervisory responsibilities, the Shift Lead serves as a visible and approachable ambassador for Winterthur, fostering positive interactions with guests, staff, volunteers, and contractors. Duties include directing patrol operations, responding to emergencies, supporting de-escalation efforts, monitoring security systems, coordinating special event coverage, and maintaining operational readiness across the estate's galleries, museum buildings, grounds, and access points.

The Shift Lead serves as the on-duty supervisor, overseeing daily operations, supporting Public Safety personnel, coordinating incident response, and ensuring consistent application of departmental policies and procedures. To maintain a comprehensive understanding of departmental operations and the unique demands of each shift, Shift Leads rotate among first-, second-, and third-shift assignments every four months. Cross-training in all departmental assignments and functions is required to support operational readiness, effective supervision, and continuity of services.

Compensation: $17.00–$20.00 per hour (based on experience and training)

Benefits:   Including, but not limited to, medical, dental, and vision insurance; generous paid time off plan including 10 holidays, vacation, personal, sick time; 403b with employer match for eligible employees; discounts in the museum store and cafe; free general admission for you and your immediate family members.

Responsibilities

Leadership 

• Lead daily shift operations and serve as a member of the department’s frontline leadership team.
• Foster a professional, positive team environment that supports accountability, communication, and employee success.
• Ensure compliance with departmental Standard Operating Procedures and public safety protocols.
• Direct responses to incidents involving the safety of guests, staff, collections, property, and facilities.
• Review shift documentation for accuracy, completeness, and policy compliance before submission to management.
• Prepare and distribute incident-related documentation, reports, and supporting materials to appropriate departments and leaders.
• Confirm shift readiness by monitoring attendance, uniforms, equipment issue and return, and post assignments.
• Provide clear pass-on communication, including operational updates, incidents, and upcoming events.
• Troubleshoot security and access control issues and support badge access updates while maintaining required records. 

Key Responsibilities 

1. Systems Monitoring: Oversee security systems, HVAC and mechanical alarms, fire systems, and CCTV; perform basic troubleshooting for access control (AMAG), video surveillance (Salient), and art security (Art Sentry).
2. Shift Oversight: Maintain accurate shift logs, ensure staffing coverage, and enforce Standard Operating Procedures.
3. Property & Communications: Manage property control documentation and provide timely notifications during emergencies or incidents affecting staff or operations.
4. Emergency Response: Follow established evacuation and safety protocols; identify and address hazardous conditions proactively.
5. Policy Enforcement: Ensure compliance with Winterthur policies and the Standard Operating Policies of the Winterthur Public Safety Department governing people, vehicles, and property on Winterthur grounds. 

JOB REQUIREMENTS:

Minimum Experience: High school diploma or equivalent proof of education with a minimum 3–5 years in public safety, security, or law enforcement, with leadership or supervisory experience.

Preferred:  At least 2 years of supervisory or team leadership experience in a public safety, security, or law enforcement setting, with CPR/AED and First Aid required; Experience working in civilian, public-facing environments where communication, professionalism, and service are essential. Strong decision-making skills and the ability to remain calm and effective in dynamic situations.

Knowledge/Skills: 

• Valid driver’s license with no conviction for driving under the influence of drugs/alcohol within 3 years of application. Certified copy is to be provided by applicant upon request.
• No convictions for theft or sexually related offenses.
• The ability to talk to people in a friendly manner that gets results.
• A "team" orientation and willingness to collaborate.
• Flexible work days/hours and ability to work overtime, on occasion with little notice.
• This position requires clear thinking during any situation that may arise with a calm and professional demeanor.
• Proficient oral and written communication skills.
• C.P.R./First Aid certification is preferred. Without prior certification, must be able to pass a written and practical test after attending a training course as designated by Winterthur.
• Basic computer skills, including word processing, accessing and managing  a Winterthur provided e-mail account, and navigating the internet
• Ability to utilize computerized security and office systems, after training

Essential Functions:

1. Must be able to work within the confines of the Museum or other Collection areas that require tight security and attention to detail.
2. Must enjoy dealing with the public in a Cultural Property setting. 
3. Must be capable of performing C.P.R. /First Aid after training.
4. Must be able to sit in and operate a patrol vehicle for a minimum 8-hour shift.
5. Must be able to climb multiple stairs (9 floors), walk or stand for extended periods of time (8 hours)
6. Must be able to lift 50+ pounds.
7. Must be able to climb a ladder.

 

Thank you for considering Winterthur Museum job opportunities.