National Security & Event Operations Director
National Security & Event Operations Director - Washington, DC
About America250
In 2026, the United States will commemorate its 250th anniversary — a once-in-a-generation opportunity to honor our nation’s history and inspire the future. The U.S. Semiquincentennial Commission (America250) is tasked by Congress to plan and implement programming, events, and initiatives engaging all Americans. Our mission is to reach 350 million people across the nation and abroad with inclusive, safe, and meaningful programming leading up to and through July 4, 2026.
Position Overview
America250 is seeking an experienced National Security & Event Operations Director to design, manage, and oversee security strategy, planning, and implementation across all Commission operations, events, and partnerships. This role will be critical in ensuring the safety of our stakeholders, staff, partners, and the public, especially as America250 hosts large-scale national and international programs in collaboration with federal agencies, state and local governments, and private sector partners.
The National Security & Event Operations Director will serve as the primary liaison to Congressional Task Forces, federal law enforcement, local police, private security vendors, and venue partners, ensuring compliance with all regulations and standards. The ideal candidate is a seasoned professional with experience in event security, protective services, and risk management for high-visibility organizations.
Key Responsibilities
- Develop and oversee comprehensive security strategy and protocols for all America250 events, offices, and staff.
- Coordinate directly with federal and state agencies (e.g., Congressional Task Force, Secret Service, Capitol Police, DHS, FBI) to ensure security compliance for official events.
- Conduct security risk assessments for programs, travel, activations, and large-scale public gatherings.
- Manage relationships with third-party security vendors and contractors.
- Oversee credentialing, access control, and secure logistics for staff, partners, and VIPs.
- Lead incident response planning, including emergency protocols, evacuation procedures, and crisis communication.
- Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local laws and security best practices.
- Train internal staff on security awareness, emergency protocols, and risk management.
- Prepare security briefings for leadership, Commissioners, and VIP guests.
- Serve as on-site security lead at major events.
Qualifications
- Minimum 8–10 years of experience in security operations, protective services, or law enforcement, preferably with federal or large-scale event experience.
- Experience working with U.S. government agencies (Secret Service, DHS, FBI, etc.) strongly preferred.
- Demonstrated experience developing and executing security strategies for high-profile public events.
- Proven ability to manage external vendors, budgets, and logistics.
- Strong crisis management, problem-solving, and communication skills.
- Ability to exercise discretion, sound judgment, and maintain confidentiality.
- Bachelor’s degree in criminal justice, homeland security, emergency management, or related field (advanced degree or security certifications preferred: CPP, PSP, CISSP, etc.).
- Ability to work evenings, weekends, and travel as required.
Compensation & Benefits
- Salary Range: $124,200 – $170,775
- Hiring Range: $140,000 – $150,000
- 4 weeks Vacation, full benefits, 12 holidays, Winter Break
- 401(k) match
Why Join America250
This is a historic opportunity to shape the safety and success of the United States’ Semiquincentennial commemoration. As Security Lead, you will play a pivotal role in ensuring that millions of Americans can safely participate in once-in-a-lifetime events and celebrations that honor our nation’s past and inspire its future.
The America250 Foundation has the right to modify, interpret, or apply this job description to meet the organization’s business needs. This job description in no way implies that these are the only duties, including essential duties, to be performed by the employee occupying this position. This job description is not an employment contract, implied or otherwise. The employment relationship remains “at-will.” The job requirements above are subject to change to reasonably accommodate qualified disabled individuals.