DOCENT

SAN ANTONIO MUSEUM OF ART • San Antonio, TX

1d • Onsite

About The Position

The San Antonio Museum of Art welcomes friendly people who enjoy engaging in dialogue with a variety of museum patrons of all ages, especially school-aged children. Docents must have a sincere interest in art and history (though no formal background is required in either subject area), as well as a passion for lifelong-learning and education. Becoming a docent is a commitment, and each biannual class is carefully selected. Docents commit to a minimum of three years of service, including two years of weekly training during the academic year (Mondays, September-May, 10:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m.). New docents who are selected for the program must attend a three-day New Docent Orientation (Monday, September 14-Wednesday, September 16, 2026). Following orientation, weekly training classes are held on Mondays from 10:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m. throughout the academic year (September-May). Training focuses on the Museum's collection, age-appropriate tour techniques, inquiry methods, and gallery activities.

Requirements

• Docents must be flexible, friendly, and have a sincere interest in art and history (though no formal background is required in either subject area).
• Docents should also possess a passion for lifelong learning and education.
• With the aid of weekly training sessions, new docents must become proficient in all school tour themes offered by the Education Department, covering every collection area in the Museum.
• Walking, bending, climbing, stooping, and lifting up to 35 pounds.
• Must be able to sit and stand for long periods of time.
• Physical ability to climb stairs and work in a multi-level building.
• Docents must maintain email contact and internet access.
• Docents must become a Museum Member at their preferred level.
• The San Antonio Museum of Art Docent Association charges annual dues of $35 to support continuing education, docent events, recognitions, etc.

Responsibilities

• Participate in weekly training sessions.
• Select touring opportunities become available as docents progress through first-year training.
• Participate in weekly training sessions with an increased emphasis on leading PK-12 school tours during the academic year.
• Participate in monthly continuing education sessions and lead at least four PK-12 school tours each academic year.

Benefits

• New and active docents are permitted to receive the educator discount on Member, Member Plus, and Family memberships.

What This Job Offers

• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: No Education Listed