Part-Time Museum Guide

Overview

Location:

United States, Pennsylvania, University Park

Approval of remote and hybrid work is not guaranteed. For additional information on remote work at Penn State, see Notice to Out of State Applicants.

The Palmer Museum of Art at Penn State is recruiting part-time guides to welcome visitors and introduce works of art from the permanent collection and special exhibitions. The Museum is a vital and accessible cultural resource for Penn State's students, faculty, and visitors. More information about the museum and the permanent collection can be found at (Use the "Apply for this Job" box below)..

We are seeking dynamic, outgoing individuals interested in art and connecting with people of all backgrounds and experiences. In-depth knowledge of or a degree in art and art history is not necessary. Paid training will provide knowledge and develop skills in museum collections, art interpretation, and facilitating guided presentation, dialogue and discussion.

Scheduling is responsive to tour demand and may vary from 4-6 hours per week up to 10-15+ hours per week. Shifts will primarily take place within the museum's public hours: 11:00am to 5:00pm, Wednesdays - Sundays, with additional hours until 8:00pm on Thursdays.

Pay: $15 per hour; part-time, hourly wage position, no benefits

Qualifications include:

• Must be 18 or older
• High School diploma or equivalent, plus post-secondary coursework; BA degree preferred
• Experience working with the public, especially in customer service or education
• Personable, outgoing; enjoy meeting and interacting with others, and able to speak comfortably in front of groups
• Reliable and responsible
• Flexible and adaptable, with excellent listening skills and the ability to demonstrate empathy and understanding
• Commitment to accessibility and equity in alignment with the museum's mission, vision, and goals
• Capable of learning new material rapidly, thinking critically, and facilitating discussions that may include difficult or controversial content
• Able to work independently and accept supervision
• The ability to lead groups through a multi-level, 73,000 square foot museum; walking, stairs, standing, and/or using a mobility device for 60-90 minutes at a time. Some tours may include the outdoor sculpture path and/or exploration gallery
• Tours are primarily conducted in English; those fluent in more than one language, including ASL, are encouraged to apply
• Prior knowledge of the Palmer Museum of Art is not required, but interest in art and relevant coursework/experience is desirable

Responsibilities include:

• Providing a welcoming, inclusive environment and a rewarding learning experience to museum visitors through guided tours
• Conducting discussion-based tours of approximately 60-90 minutes
• Conducting occasional tours of the museum and facilities for VIPs and visiting groups
• Greeting and welcoming groups upon arrival
• Engaging diverse visitors and speaking comfortably to groups of various ages and backgrounds
• Keeping informed about changes in museum exhibitions and tour programs
• Assisting at the welcome desk with information and way finding and supporting Visitor Services in capturing patron demographics
• Assisting with special event programs as needed

Background Checks and Clearances

This position requires the following clearances in addition to applicable background checks: PA State Police Criminal Background Check, PA Child Abuse History Clearance Form, and Federal (FBI) Fingerprint Criminal Background Check.

Campus Security and Equal Opportunity

Penn State is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact .

EEO is the Law;
Penn State and its affiliates value belonging and inclusivity.

Application instructions:
Please submit a cover letter and resume to be considered for this position. Candidates selected for interviews will be asked to make a short presentation on a work of art or other visual media (detailed instructions will be provided).

We are directing you to the original job posting. Please apply directly for this job at the employer’s website.