Discovery Guide

As a Discovery Guide, you provide the highest level of customer service and frontline engagement for visitors, facilitating exploration of museum exhibits and experiences. You actively interact with children, adults, families and groups, respond to visitor questions, and work with other staff members to support educational programs. You consistently model appropriate behavior, show enthusiasm, and help create a creative and fun experience for all visitors.

The role requires schedule flexibility and a part‑time commitment of 20–29 hours per week, including a minimum of one weekend day and occasional holidays and after‑hours availability for special events and facility rentals as assigned.

Customer Service and Visitor Stewardship

• Exemplify outstanding customer service, proactively anticipating visitor needs while maintaining professionalism and support.
• Help expand relationships with visitors by creating a safe, fun and friendly environment.
• Actively engage visitors, guide proper use of exhibits, interpret exhibit content and present gallery experiences to broaden visitor experience and foster repeat visitation.
• Provide assistance by answering general questions about museum offerings, exhibits and navigation.
• Serve as Birthday Guide and/or Tour Facilitator.

Teamwork and Collaboration

• Work cross‑functionally with other Discovery Guides, Leads and departments to support the museum’s mission.
• Listen to visitor ideas and concerns and communicate regularly with management about visitor experiences to support continuous improvement.
• Demonstrate a team approach, remain flexible and adapt to different roles.
• Proactively prepare supplies for gallery experiences and help maintain inventory.
• Assist with facilitating experiences in galleries and directly engage visitors in activities.

Dependability and Accountability

• Maintain thorough knowledge of exhibit content and programs, rapidly learning relevant content.
• Arrive punctually and be prepared for scheduled shifts, meetings and programs.
• Communicate scheduling needs and issues promptly.
• Seek professional development opportunities to support lifelong learning.

Required Education / Certification

• High School diploma.

Minimum Experience / Skills / Certificates

• Experience and interest in a youth‑oriented environment and interacting with families of young children, school groups and a diverse community of learners.
• Early childhood and/or elementary program/camp counseling experience a plus.
• Ability to consistently provide excellent customer service, listen actively, and respond to visitors’ needs.
• Excellent interpersonal skills, professional maturity, adaptability and self‑reliance.
• Ability to problem‑solve and quickly respond to customer service issues.
• Proven sales skills with the ability to promote museum membership, programs and events.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Flexible with last‑minute changes.
• Sensitivity to diversity, including individuals with physical challenges or special needs.
• Consistent use of good judgment in the presence of visitors and staff.
• Bilingual a plus.
• Physical ability to kneel, walk and/or stand for prolonged periods; lift and maneuver up to 10–50 pounds; operate and load/unload museum resources.
• Experience participating in theatrical performances and wearing costumes or characters.