Job Description

The Gibbes Museum of Art seeks part-time, reliable, customer service-oriented individuals to serve as Museum Engagement Specialist. The position is the first point of contact for the public and combines the responsibilities of visitor services, store sales, and museum and program orientation, by facilitating an exchange with a diverse cross-section of individuals.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Staff either the front desk or Museum Store counter
• Greet, orientate, and direct members, visitors, and tour groups (when needed)
• Be familiar with and able to discuss artists and exhibitions (curatorial training materials will be provided)
• Be familiar and able to discuss the museum building and its key architectural features (training provided)
• Be familiar with all museum functions and programs as well as educational outreach efforts on a day-to-day basis
• Remind visitors of museum policies concerning the artwork, photography, sketching, etc.
• Answer and direct phone calls about the museum, exhibitions, and public offerings to appropriate parties
• Provide visitors with information about Charleston
• Promote and sell museum merchandise, admissions, memberships, program and event tickets
• Adhere to all procedures involving cash transactions and maintain security of cash handling process
• Ensure that all visitors who enter the galleries have either purchased an admission ticket or are identified as staff or special guests
• Monitor visitation in the galleries, keeping the safety of the artwork the main priority and enforcing Gibbes policies
• Serve as an advocate for the visitor while promoting the safety of the museum
• Arrange store merchandise, re-stock merchandise, count store inventory quarterly, and create store displays
• Complete inventory adjustments when shipments arrive as trained by visitors’ services and museum store coordinator and manager
• Aid in maintaining the online store through taking photos, preparing shipments, and relaying messages to supervisor
• Participate in reporting and research as directed (training provided)
• Perform other duties as directed by Visitors’ Services and Museum Store Supervisor

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Commit to between 29 - 32 hours of work per week
• Experience working in a fast-paced environment
• Ability to work evenings, weekends, and/or holidays
• Experience with and/or knowledge of visual or performance art. A degree in visual art or art history is helpful but not mandatory
• Retail experience helpful but not mandatory
• Customer service or hospitality experience preferred
• Solid interpersonal and communication skills
• Knowledge of the Charleston area
• Friendly and outgoing, able to conduct oneself in a polite and professional manner in a variety of situations
• Ability to assert oneself when needed to enforce policies and protect artwork
• Ability to use good judgment and respond to visitor concerns or complaints while remaining calm and presenting a professional demeanor
• Computer skills with preference given to candidates with prior point of sale system experience
• High school diploma and relevant work experience required

PLEASE PROVIDE THE FOLLOWING AS PART OF YOUR APPLICATION:

• Cover letter detailing your interest in the Gibbes Museum and your qualifications (PDF).
• Resume including education and experience (PDF).

Send application by email to: careers@gibbesmuseum.org