Safety and Security Patron Screening Supervisor

Position Title:

Safety and Security Patron Screening Supervisor

Department:
Safety and Security

Reports To:

Associate Director of Safety and Security

Range: $28.00 per hour

Company Description

At Ravinia, we believe in the transformative power of shared, live-music moments and their ability to inspire individuals, strengthen communities, and foster a more connected world.

Beyond presenting outstanding performances by the world's greatest musicians, our mission as a not-for-profit organization is to develop broader, more diverse audiences and performers in the music

industry with our Reach Teach Play® community engagement and education programs, our Steans Institute's collaborative and experiential artistic training programs, and more. Together, Ravinia's initiatives serve tens of thousands of students, families, and emerging professional musicians.

Our 36-acre park is home to North America's longest-running outdoor music festival and its most artistically diverse. Over 100 different events, featuring a mix of classical, rock, pop, jazz, R&B, indie, and country performers, make up a typical summer season across our open-air and indoor stages, including the annual residency of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra.

Position Summary:

Under the direction of the Associate Director of Safety and Security the Patron Screening Supervisor oversees all contracted patron entry screening operations, walk-through metal detectors, handheld screening devices, and bag inspections. This position is responsible for ensuring safe, efficient, courteous, and professional screening operations while maintaining a welcoming environment for guests, staff, artists, and vendors.

The Supervisor leads screening personnel during events in coordination with both Ravinia staff and contracted employees, ensures compliance with venue policies and applicable laws, and responds to security concerns or prohibited item detections in a calm and professional manner.

Staff Supervision

• Supervise contract patron screening staff during venue operations and special events.
• Oversee the operation of walk-through metal detectors, handheld wands, bag check stations, and credential verification points.
• Ensure screening procedures are conducted consistently, professionally, and in accordance with venue policy.
• Monitor entry flow to maintain efficient guest throughput while preserving security standards.

Monitor for Compliance and Incident Response

• Monitor and respond to alarms, prohibited item discoveries, and screening disputes.
• Monitor and coordinate scheduling of staff with contract patron screening vendors.
• Coordinate with law enforcement, event security, medical personnel, and venue management as necessary.
• Ensure proper documentation of incidents, confiscated items, refusals of entry, and policy violations.
• Conduct pre-event inspections and operational readiness checks of screening equipment.
• Maintain inventory and accountability of screening equipment and related supplies.
• Assist with developing and updating screening procedures.
• Monitor staff professionalism, appearance, and compliance with attendance requirements.
• Provide exceptional guest service while maintaining security integrity.

Staff Training and Coaching

• Train and coach screening personnel on:
  • Metal detector operations
  • Search procedures
  • Customer service expectations
  • De-escalation techniques
  • Emergency response protocols

Knowledge and Skills

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Minimum [2-3] years of security or event operations experience preferred.
• Prior supervisory or leadership experience preferred.
• Experience with metal detectors, magnetometers, or access control systems preferred.
• Strong interpersonal and conflict-resolution skills.
• Ability to remain calm under pressure in crowded or high-stress environments.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work evenings, weekends, holidays, and extended event hours.
• Basic computer and report-writing skills.

Core Competencies

• Leadership
• Professionalism
• Situational Awareness
• Customer Service
• Communication
• Decision-Making
• Team Coordination
• De-escalation
• Attention to Detail

Education and Experience

• Must be at least 18 years of age
• High School Diploma or equivalent…