Visitor Services Associate (Chesterwood)

National Trust for Historic Preservation in the United States•Stockbridge, MA

2d•$0 - $20•Onsite

About The Position

Chesterwood is the summer estate of Daniel Chester French (1850-1931), famed sculptor of the Minute Man for Concord, MA, and the seated Abraham Lincoln for the Lincoln Memorial in Washington, DC. Owned and operated by the National Trust for Historic Preservation, Chesterwood is located in idyllic Stockbridge, MA with multiple buildings set within 122 acres. The site includes French’s Studio, the recently restored Colonial Revival Residence, and the gardens and woodland walks that he designed. The Barn Gallery houses a permanent exhibition exploring French’s life and highlighting iconic works while the Residence and Woodshed Galleries house seasonal exhibitions. Guided tours and educational programs highlight French’s life and artistic achievements while contemporary art is advanced through special exhibitions, such as the annual outdoor sculpture show, and artist residencies. Chesterwood also presents a robust performance series (ArtsAlive!) and events/programs for children.

Requirements

Ability to operate cash register and use systems to complete visitor transactions in a professional and timely manner.
Effective and engaging interpersonal skills.
Excellent verbal and written communication, with ability to speak and read English fluently.
Demonstrated ability to engage effectively with a variety of internal and external stakeholders, including culturally diverse audiences, patrons, and guests.
Problem-solving skills, including issue identification and prioritization.
Ability to adapt and be flexible in a dynamic work environment.
Regular and reliable attendance required.
Minimum physical requirements include but are not limited to: Ability to stand or be active for periods up to 6 hours; lift book or merchandise boxes; walk over uneven terrain; climb stairs.
BA/BA in process or equivalent work experience in retail, in hospitality or at a cultural institution.

Nice To Haves

Experience in retail establishments and the hospitality field preferred.
Previous experience at a cultural institution is a plus.

Responsibilities

Provide an exceptional experience for all visitors.
Greet guests and outline visit options given day of week, time of day and specific date.
Convey the mission of Chesterwood and the National Trust for Historic Preservation, sharing current initiatives and upcoming programs and events.
Answer phone and assist callers.
Respond to emails and voicemails.
Open and close Admissions, the Museum Shop and the Barn Gallery.
Prepare the cash register each morning.
Balance the cash register each evening and provide summary details to accompany deposits.
Ensure all areas are clean and tidy.
Restock Museum Shop merchandise as needed.
Assist in monitoring collections security (buildings, objects and grounds) and visitor safety, responding calmly and professionally to emergencies and promptly notifying supervisors of incidents or unsafe conditions.
Assist with other site-related, marketing and event activities as needed.