APPLY HERE: https://recruiting.myapps.paychex.com/appone/MainInfoReq.asp?RID=6899990
Our Security Officers are required to help protect the visitors’ positive experience during open hours and to protect the Garden, staff, and assets at all times. They control the main vehicle entrance gate, patrol the grounds, respond to emergencies, and carry out other assigned duties. The Security Officers report to the Security Manager and work at the main Garden campus at 611 SW Kingston Ave.
This seasonal position extends at least through September 30th, 2025.
Primary Duties
Create a safe, friendly environment for patrons and employees while keeping a positive attitude
Become familiar with and enforce site policies and procedures
Observe and report incidents, criminal activities, or hazardous conditions as they arise.
Lock, unlock, and alarm facilities
Control vehicular traffic entering site
Work cooperatively with other Garden departments and staff
Maintain good working relationships with external security providers and law enforcement
Perform regular sweeps of grounds and facility
Write daily activity reports and incident reports to submit for review
Keep work area clean and report any maintenance and/or damage concerns to the appropriate manager
Other duties as assigned
Other Responsibilities
Familiarize oneself with the organization and the Employee Handbook
Get to know fellow staff members, developing trust, establishing credibility, encouraging teamwork, and creating an atmosphere of open, honest, two-way communication
Serve as a role model for Garden volunteers, providing support and encouragement to volunteers in their roles across the Garden
Maintain a high level of professionalism in manner and appearance
Adhere to Garden Dress Code and wear Garden uniform
Qualifications
Studies have shown that women and people of color are less likely to apply for jobs unless they believe they meet every one of the qualifications as described in a job description. We are most interested in finding the best candidate for the position, and that candidate may be one who comes from a less traditional background. If you are interested in applying, we encourage you to think broadly about your background and qualifications for this role.
Minimum one (1) year of experience in security industry
Current DPSST certification preferred, or ability to become certified prior to starting
Proficient in using PC and MS Office (Outlook, Word, and Excel)
Able to read, write, and communicate proficiently
Special Requirements
Security Officers are considered essential employees and must be able to work during Garden closures (e.g., inclement weather)
Must be able to work a flexible schedule including evenings, weekends, and holidays
Must be able to remain in a stationary position and/or move about the Garden for several hours in all weather conditions
Ability to lift, carry, push, or pull up to fifty (50) pounds
Compensation & Schedule
Wage: $21.00/hour
This is a seasonal, full-time, hourly position with approximately 40 hours per week.
Position extends at least through September 30th, 2025.
Benefits:
a household membership to the Garden
reciprocal access to other area attractions, such as Portland Art Museum, OMSI, and Oregon Zoo
a 30% discount on most items in the gift shop
incentives for using alternative transportation to commute to work
free access to the Employee Assistance Program
paid sick time
eligible for the company 401k plan upon completion of 500 hours in the first 6 months of employment (4% employer match after 1 year of service)
Transportation
The Garden is located at 611 SW Kingston Avenue, in Washington Park. Below are the transportation options for staff commuting to the Garden:
Parking: Staff may park in the numbered spaces throughout Washington Park, which require payment. The cost is $8/day, or staff may request parking permits from Washington Park. The Garden subsidizes a portion of the cost for parking permits; the cost for staff is $75 during the high season (March – September) and $50 during the low season (October – February).
Bus Passes: For staff who take public transit as their primary means of commuting to the Garden, we provide paid bus passes. Full-time staff receive a monthly TriMet pass, and part-time staff receive daily passes, based on their work schedule.
Transportation Stipend: Staff who take any form of alternative transit to get to work qualify for a $5 daily stipend. This includes taking public transit, walking, biking, carpooling, or getting dropped off. The only staff who do not qualify for the stipend are those who are receiving a bus pass through the Garden.
Applications
To apply, please submit a resume, cover letter, and three work-related references. Incomplete applications will not be considered. Please no phone calls or hand delivered applications. Applications will be accepted until the position is filled.
All submitted applications will be held in confidence.
We encourage all potential applicants to watch our video entitled “Come to Understand: Welcome to Portland Japanese Garden” (5:56 minutes): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nriDvt0Nay8.