What are the responsibilities and job description for the Visitor Services Associate position at Chesterwood?
Are you passionate about history and facilitating a warm, welcoming environment? Do you enjoy sharing your knowledge and working with people? If so, then join our team at Chesterwood, the summer home, studio, and gardens of renowned American sculptor Daniel Chester French!
In this role, you'll make the first impression for visitors, ensuring a warm and informative experience. You'll handle admissions, answer questions about Chesterwood and the National Trust, and make our gift shop a delightful browsing experience. You'll also play a key role in welcoming group tours and community partners. Qualified candidates will have the opportunity to cross-train as a Tour Guide.
Why You'll Love Working Here:
- Be a part of history: Share the legacy of Daniel Chester French, the sculptor behind iconic figures like the Minute Man and Lincoln Memorial statue.
- Make a difference: Help visitors connect with American history and spark conversations about monumental representation in public spaces.
- Dynamic and engaging environment: Interact with a diverse range of visitors and learn something new every day.
- Supportive team atmosphere: Work alongside passionate colleagues who share your love for history and creating a positive visitor experience.
What You'll Do:
- Greet visitors with a warm smile and provide an informative introduction to Chesterwood.
- Process admissions and guide visitors through the ticketing process.
- Assist guests with gift shop purchases and curate a welcoming shopping environment.
- Manage cash register duties, including closing procedures and daily reports.
- Answer visitor questions in person and by phone, demonstrating a strong knowledge of Chesterwood and the National Trust.
- Coordinate with tour guides and ensure smooth operation of group visits.
Qualifications:
- Customer Service Experience: A minimum of 1 year of experience in customer service or a related field, demonstrating a commitment to providing friendly, helpful, and professional service.
- Sales and Cash Handling: Experience with cash register operation, processing transactions, and balancing drawers.
- Basic Computer Skills: Proficiency in using basic computer programs and applications, such as point-of-sale systems.
- Communication Skills: Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to explain information clearly and concisely to a diverse audience.
- Availability: Ability to work a flexible schedule, including weekends and potentially some holidays, during the seasonal opening period (May 25th - October 21st, 2024).
- Physical Requirements: remain at a stationary post for up to 90 minutes; move across uneven terrain; move packages up to 25 pounds
Preferred Qualifications:
- Interest in American History and/or Art: A passion for American history, particularly sculpture and artistic movements, would be a plus.
- Museum or Historic Site Experience: Prior experience working in a museum or historic site would be beneficial.
The National Trust for Historic Preservation an equal opportunity organization and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, sexual orientation, veteran status, or disability. The National Trust for Historic Preservation actively seeks opportunities to include members of these groups in its programs and activities.
Chesterwood is open to the public from May 25th to October 21st, 2024, Wednesdays through Mondays, 10 am to 5 pm. This seasonal position offers a flexible schedule with 1 - 3 shifts available per week. Ability to work weekends a plus.
Job Types: Part-time, Seasonal
Pay: $17.50 per hour
Expected hours: 8 – 24 per week
Benefits:
- Employee discount
- Flexible schedule
Schedule:
- 4 hour shift
- 8 hour shift
- Day shift
Ability to Relocate:
- Stockbridge, MA 01262: Relocate before starting work (Required)
Work Location: In person
Salary : $18