Guest Services Associate

Posted February 2, 2024

Washington National Cathedral is searching for an outgoing, energetic, and communicative Guest Services Associate. This part time position (20-35 hours weekly with a potential of 40 hours per week during peak seasons) will often be the first point of contact for visitors to Washington National Cathedral. They will provide hospitality at the Cathedral’s main entry points, primarily during sightseeing hours as well as during other events and worship services as needed. The Associate will sell sightseeing admission, check print-at-home tickets, retail items, and monitor doors at other events. This position will also participate and conduct individual and group tours as needed.

Duties and Responsibilities

Individual/Small Group Sightseeing

  • Process transactions at the welcome desk, including sightseeing admission, donations, National Cathedral Association memberships and special event ticket purchases.
  • Sell tickets and scan print-at-home tickets for Cathedral admission and specialty tours.
  • Ensure completion and accuracy of all register transactions, including register tills at the end of shift.
  • Answer basic visitor questions and assist with wayfinding.
  • Issue audio tours and printed materials as needed.
  • Provide occasional support for greeting bus groups and providing direction to group leader/chaperones.

Individual/Small Group Tours

  • Serves as an interpretive guide for bus groups and sightseeing visitors ranging from 2-60 people.
  • Gives engaging and informative guided tours of the Cathedral and answers questions about Cathedral mission, history, art, architecture, worship, and programs.
  • Works as a member of the daily docent/guide team under the direction of the Docent and Tour Manager.
  • Performs other visitor service-related duties as needed to ensure a welcoming/hospitable reception for visitors. Some tasks may be in lieu of sightseeing hours.

Event Support

  • Perform tasks as needed supporting front-of-house operations for programs held in lieu of sightseeing hours.
  • Welcome and direct event-goers, worshipers and meeting attendees.
  • Monitor doors and scan tickets as guests enter the Cathedral.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.
minimum qualifications
  • At least one year of customer service experience
  • High School diploma or GED
  • Two years’ customer service experience, preferable in a high volume and visitor friendly atmosphere.
  • Open availability. This role will have shifts available on nights, weekends, and holidays.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, ABILITIES
  • Excellent interpersonal and communications skills with a helpful, friendly attitude; team-oriented disposition with strong customer service skills.
  • Ability to react to change quickly and positively.
  • Sensitivity to the needs of a diverse public, including the ability to interact with those in need of pastoral care.
  • Basic computer skills required.
  • Ability to handle cash and provide change.
  • Ability to multitask during periods of high volume.
  • Ability to operate radio/walkie-talkie communications.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience in events or hospitality industry is a plus.
  • Proficiency in other languages a plus.
  • Experience as a tour guide strongly preferred.
WORKING CONDITIONS

While performing the duties of this job, the Guest Services Associate is frequently required to stand, walk, and use hands to type and handle objects. The employee is occasionally required to reach, climb, balance, and stoop. Specific working condition requirements include:

  • Must be able to work on feet for extended periods of time, to frequently ascend and descend stairs, and walk throughout the entry spaces.
  • Must be able to work a flexible schedule, including weekends and occasional evenings. Open availability is required, including nights, weekends, and holidays.
  • Must be able to work outside in all weather conditions.
  • Must be able to lift and/or move up to 10 pounds.
  • Must be comfortable working in a multi-function venue, as the Cathedral is an active house of worship & cultural heritage site.
  • This is a part time position (20-35 hours weekly with a potential of 40 hours per week during peak seasons)

Washington National Cathedral is an equal opportunity employer and strives to create a more diverse and inclusive atmosphere for all. Applicants will not be discriminated against because of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, or national origin.

We support an inclusive workplace where associates excel based on personal merit, qualifications, experience, ability, and job performance.

Washington National Cathedral seeks individuals who are committed to our mission. We appreciate interest from those who will contribute to an atmosphere in which diversity is valued and supported.

Hourly rate: starting at $22 per hour

Apply Now

To apply, send a cover letter and resume to [email protected].