Job Description

Job Description

Job Description

THE THEODORE ROOSEVELT PRESIDENTIAL LIBRARY FOUNDATION

“Believe you can, and you’re halfway there.” -Theodore Roosevelt

Since 2014, the Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library Foundation (TRPLF) has been planning and building a new, ambitious kind of presidential library and museum. Other presidential libraries tell the story of a single individual, but the Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library (TRPL) – being built more than a century after T.R.’s death – will do more than preserve history. The TRPL will be a people’s library, bringing Roosevelt’s values and relentless spirit to life at a critical time in our nation and world, while simultaneously championing the stories of all who “dare greatly, think boldly, care deeply, and live passionately.”

The library is currently being constructed in Medora, North Dakota, with a milestone planned for July 4, 2026 – America’s 250th anniversary. Participants at the TRPL will learn from – not just about – Roosevelt’s story, being transformed into the same stunning Badlands that served as the fulcrum in T.R.’s incredible life story.

Guided by the pillar principles of leadership, citizenship, and conservation, the Foundation has partnered with innovative partners – like the award-winning architecture firm, Snøhetta, and the best-in-class story crafters, the Future of Storytelling – to build an institution like no other. With plans to be the most sustainable presidential library and campus ever, a revolutionary approach to interpretive design, and programming that will spread the library’s message into neighboring Theodore Roosevelt National Park and beyond across the globe, the opportunity to join a talented team in building and opening this institution is truly unique.

About the Role

The Manager of Protective Services will lead the development and daily operations of Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library’s protective services program — ensuring the safety of our visitors, staff, artifacts, and campus. This is a rare opportunity to help shape security protocols, build a protective services team from the ground up, and contribute to the launch of a one-of-a-kind institution set in the rugged beauty of North Dakota’s Badlands.

This position is charged with protecting our people, places, and assets—from day-to-day visitor experiences to complex, high-profile events involving heads of state, dignitaries, and national security partners. The Manager of Protective Services leads a team of in-house personnel and coordinates closely with law enforcement, contractors, Secret Service, and emergency services as needed. This position will be instrumental in creating a secure, welcoming, and mission-aligned environment — one that upholds the values of boldness, curiosity, and inclusion that define the Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library.

Core Competencies

• Emergency Preparedness & Response: Demonstrated experience leading emergency planning, including coordination with law enforcement, fire, EMS, and federal agencies such as the Secret Service
• Security Technology & Infrastructure: Deep understanding of modern security platforms including video surveillance (CCTV/AI), access control systems, intrusion detection, and integrated building management tools
• Leadership & Team Management: Proven ability to recruit, train, schedule, and lead protective services teams, including contracted and in-house personnel
• Crisis Management: Ability to remain composed and make sound decisions under pressure; skilled in incident command, de-escalation, and real-time coordination
• Risk Assessment & Mitigation: Competency in identifying vulnerabilities and implementing layered security strategies across both physical and operational domains
• Policy Development: Experience creating and implementing protocols for access control, incident reporting, visitor safety, and emergency response
• Collaboration & Communication: Skilled at building relationships across departments and with external partners to promote a shared culture of safety without compromising visitor experience
• Cultural Institution Awareness: Familiarity with the unique needs of museums or public institutions, including balancing public access, guest engagement, and preservation of cultural assets
• Discretion & Integrity: High ethical standards, sound judgment, and ability to handle confidential or sensitive information responsibly

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage all security operations across the Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library campus and related sites, including oversight of staffing, control room operations, shift schedules, and emergency response

• Build and manage a highly capable protective services team composed of in-house staff and/or contracted personnel
• Collaborate with architects, engineers, and operations staff to ensure protective services are embedded into the Library’s infrastructure and systems
• Serve as the primary point of contact for law enforcement, fire/rescue, emergency management, the United States Secret Service, and other key federal and state partners
• Plan and support the security infrastructure for high-profile public events, protest scenarios, and VIP visits, including visits by presidents and dignitaries
• Administer and optimize integrated security systems (e.g., surveillance, access control, intrusion detection, emergency communication)
  • Manage building access permissions, physical key control systems, and digital credentialing to maintain secure and efficient operations.
• Lead all emergency planning efforts, including threat assessments, tabletop drills, and incident response protocols
• Oversee investigations, reporting, and digital forensics in response to incidents
• Ensure the Library meets all applicable safety standards (ADA, OSHA, NFPA, etc.) and museum accreditation criteria
• Balance protective measures with the Library’s visitor-first approach to experience, access, and comfort
• Ensure the protection of collections and cultural assets in alignment with museum standards and emergency salvage protocols.
• Develop and deliver training programs for staff and volunteers
• Maintain documentation for incident reports, investigations, training, drills, and certifications
• Support the implementation of the Library’s Protective Services Plan, based on a multi-phase strategic roadmap

Experience & Education

• Bachelor’s degree in criminal justice, emergency management, security studies, public administration, or a related field required
• Advanced degree or relevant certifications (e.g., CPP, PSP, EMT, ICS/NIMS training) preferred
• Minimum 5 years of progressive leadership experience in protective services, law enforcement, military, or emergency management

• Experience securing high-profile facilities, large public events, or cultural institutions strongly preferred

Physical and Environmental Requirements

• Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk, working on a computer, and viewing the security monitor system.
• Ability to perform repetitive tasks such as typing and using a mouse.
• Daily standing, walking, and reaching to access equipment.
• Ability to work in various environmental conditions, including extreme outside conditions.
• On-call schedule
• May be required to respond to urgent issues or events on short notice/off schedule.
• May require to be on-site for evening or weekend for events or special projects.
• This is a full-time, exempt position, working onsite at TRPL, located in Medora, ND.
• Must reside within a reasonable distance of Medora, ND (less than an hour's drive or within 60 miles).

Benefits

Full benefits include 403(b), medical insurance, dental insurance, vision insurance, life insurance, short-term and long-term disability, as well as 20 days of paid time off and 10 days of holidays. The salary ranges between $80,000 to $100,000 commensurate with experience.

EEO Statement

The Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library Foundation (TRPLF) is committed to creating a diverse, equitable, and inclusive environment. TRPLF does not discriminate based on race, sex, color, religion, age, national origin, marital status, disability, veteran status, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other reason prohibited by law as a provision of employment opportunities and benefits.

Reasonable Accommodation

The Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library is committed to creating a welcoming, inclusive, and accessible environment. If you require a reasonable accommodation to complete your application, participate in an interview, or otherwise navigate our hiring process, please email careers at trlibrary.com. Our team will connect with you to explore the best way to support your experience.

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