Security Manager

Job Description

Job Description

Security Manager

Canyon seeks a full-time Security Manager to lead the security operation of Canyon's Lower East Side venue, overseeing a hybrid team of in-house and contracted security personnel.

Who We Are

Canyon is a new media art institution opening on the Lower East Side of Manhattan in fall 2026. Spanning approximately 40,000 square feet, the venue encompasses exhibition galleries, a 120-seat performance space, an 800-person event hall, a restaurant, bar, mezzanine café, and theater. Canyon presents two major exhibitions per year alongside a year-round program of live events, performances, screenings, and community programming.

Position Overview

The Security Manager is responsible for the safety and security of Canyon's visitors, staff, artists, and collection. This role oversees a hybrid team of in-house security staff and contracted security vendors, and is responsible for developing and maintaining the protocols, training, and staffing needed to serve a public venue hosting exhibitions and live performances. This role will report to the Chief Operations Officer.

Because Canyon is a public-facing venue, the Security Manager and their team will regularly interact with patrons - answering questions, offering wayfinding, and shaping visitors' first and last impressions of the organization. As Canyon's first Security Manager, this role carries a rare opportunity: to build a security culture from the ground up, one that reflects Canyon's commitment to a welcoming, unhurried environment where visitors feel at ease - whether they're experiencing art, sharing a meal, or simply spending time. The ideal candidate understands that security in a cultural setting is as much about hospitality and public engagement as it is about safety - and brings the vision and experience to instill that philosophy across an entire team.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and maintain security policies, procedures, and post orders for Canyon's building, exhibitions, and events
• Recruit, hire, and onboard in-house security staff; establish clear performance expectations, conduct regular evaluations, and manage disciplinary processes in partnership with HR; oversee timekeeping and payroll approval for security personnel
• Manage the day-to-day security operation, including scheduling, supervision, and performance management of in-house security staff
• Manage relationships with contracted security vendors, including scoping, scheduling, and quality assurance
• Attend regular operational and planning meetings; partner with the Events Producer and Director of Visitor Services to anticipate staffing needs for large events, performances, and rentals, and coordinate contracted security accordingly
• Develop and deliver training for security staff on emergency response, visitor engagement, and venue-specific protocols
• Conduct regular security assessments and walkthroughs of the building, identifying vulnerabilities and recommending improvements
• Develop and lead emergency evacuation drills and tabletop exercises for all staff
• Manage the security budget, including forecasting labor costs and vendor contracts
• Oversee patron management protocols for high-attendance events, including crowd flow, line management, and capacity monitoring
• Oversee access control, CCTV, alarm, and related security systems in coordination with the Facilities Manager
• Serve as the primary point of contact for emergency response, including coordination with NYPD, FDNY, and EMS as needed
• Maintain incident documentation and produce regular reports on security operations
• Ensure all security staff present a welcoming, helpful, and professional presence for Canyon's visitors

Required Qualifications

• Minimum 8 years of professional experience in security operations, with at least 2 years in a supervisory or management role
• Experience managing both in-house staff and contracted security vendors, including recruitment, onboarding, and performance management
• Strong knowledge of access control, CCTV, and alarm systems
• Demonstrated ability to train and develop staff, particularly in public-facing, hospitality-oriented environments
• Familiarity with OSHA and NYC Department of Buildings safety compliance requirements
• Basic first aid / CPR certification
• Comfort with technology platforms for scheduling, incident reporting, and access control management
• Valid NYS Security Guard license, or ability to obtain prior to start
• Excellent judgment, communication, and interpersonal skills
• Availability to work a flexible schedule, including evenings, weekends, and on-call response
• Ability to stand for extended periods, navigate stairs, and lift up to 25 lbs.

The ideal candidate exercises sound judgment and discretion in all interactions with visitors, staff, and artists.

Desired Skills and Qualifications

• Experience in a museum, performing arts venue, or other cultural institution
• Experience with live event or performance security
• De-escalation training or certification (e.g., Crisis Prevention Institute)
• FDNY Fire & Life Safety Director certification (F-89, F-07) or willingness to obtain

Salary and Benefits

Salary is commensurate with experience. The expected range is $90,000–$110,000.

This is a full-time salaried position. Benefits include medical, dental, and vision insurance; life, AD&D, long-term disability, and short-term disability insurance; a Health Savings Account or Flexible Spending Account; a 401(k) retirement account with a matching contribution; and tuition reimbursement. We are an equal-opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

To Apply

Please upload a resume, cover letter, and contact information for three references in the 'Resume' section of the job application portal.

Employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check. All background checks will be conducted in accordance with applicable federal, state, and local laws.