Museum Visitor Services Attendant

Washington and Lee University • Lexington, VA

1d • Onsite

About The Position

This position ensures a positive and welcoming Museum experience and environment for guests and demonstrates the highest level of customer service, remaining professional, personable, and engaging to all museum visitors. Washington and Lee University actively promotes a dynamic and inclusive environment that allows students and employees of multiple backgrounds, cultures, and perspectives to learn, work, and thrive together. Successful candidates will contribute to that environment and exhibit potential for excellence in their areas of expertise.

Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent GED
• Minimum of 1 year of front-line customer service experience required
• Demonstrated passion and appreciation for art, history, culture, and a willingness to share it with the public.
• Must be comfortable with technology and/or willing to learn virtual reality set ups and use of iPad.
• Ability to read, understand, and retain written information pertaining to the Museum, local history, and exhibits and ability to utilize these resources effectively.
• Must have exceptional verbal and written communication skills and the ability to clearly explain Museum policies and procedures.
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision, but also able to works well with others by showing courtesy and respect to colleagues and demonstrate skills such as diplomacy and empathy.
• Must be able to work in a fast-paced environment and interface effectively with visitors; remain calm and effective during high-traffic times.
• Must be able to respond to security or emergency situations calmly and with good judgement.
• Must be able to wear PPE when necessary.

Nice To Haves

• Previous museum/cultural organization experience preferred.
• College education in art history, and some museum or public/customer service work experience is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Staffing the chapel orientation space, providing a pro-active, friendly, and professional welcome to visitors, answering queries, in person or over the phone, or referring visitors to the appropriate place or resource for additional information.
• Assists groups or individuals with special needs (persons with disabilities, children, seniors, etc.).
• May provide short orientations as necessary.
• Remaining knowledgeable about exhibitions, programming, and educational opportunities for visitors.
• Referring inquiries to proper staff as needed or, in their absence, handles inquiries, referrals or problems as they arise.
• Monitoring status of museum facilities and systems, ensuring public spaces are set-up and tidy for general operations, including performing occasional custodial tasks to ensure cleanliness and safety for visitors.
• Ensuring the safety of guests through building evacuation and notification of staff during an emergency; and coordinating with Public Safety officers to ensure museum policies are followed to ensure a safe environment for all guests and staff.
• Tracking and recording daily attendance, receiving visitor feedback, and collecting visitor contacts, marketing information, and process data in management system, AudienceView.
• Working special events, performances, opening receptions, public programs, and other programs as assigned.
• Providing clerical support to museum staff including assisting with preparation of documents such as folding brochures, research, basic data entry and assisting with special projects when needed.

Benefits

• The University provides a comprehensive benefits package aimed at supporting the work-life balance, health and wellbeing, financial security, and professional development of employees.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Part-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED