Cathedral Guide (Part Time)

Posted April 12, 2024

Washington National Cathedral seeks part-time Cathedral Guides to support the peak tour seasons by presenting engaging 30-minute guided tours to the public. As a member of the Cathedral’s hospitality and interpretive team in the Guest and Event Management Services department, the Cathedral Guide works alongside volunteer docents to welcome groups that have made reservations for a Cathedral visit. Applicants must be able to speak in front of groups and present accurate information about the Cathedral. Training is provided.

Duties and Responsibilities
  • Serves as an interpretive guide for youth and other groups ranging from 2-60 people.
  • Gives engaging and informative 30-minute 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.

minimum qualifications

  • Excellent interpersonal and oral communication skills;
  • Degree, working toward a degree, and/or comparable experience in education, museum education, museum studies, art history, architecture, or a related field;
  • Strength, dexterity, and mobility to perform all duties;
  • Experience as a tour guide strongly preferred; and
  • The Protestant Episcopal Cathedral Foundation (“PECF”) requires all Washington National Cathedral employees and contractors who are regularly working at the Cathedral, absent an exemption for a medical condition or a sincerely held religious belief, to either (a) have received an original course of a COVID-19 vaccine (e.g. the original Pfizer/Moderna/Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 vaccines) and at least one COVID-19 booster vaccine; or (b) be up-to-date with the COVID-19 vaccine as defined by the CDC by having received an updated COVID-19 vaccine. Employees and covered contractors are also strongly encouraged to obtain all additional COVID booster shots for which they are eligible under then current CDC eligibility guidelines for COVID-19 boosters.

Preferred Characteristics of a cathedral Guide

  • Excellent interpersonal and communications skills;
  • Excellent public presentation skills and ability to engage groups and facilitate tours;
  • Ability to learn and retain extensive amount of information necessary;
  • Team-oriented disposition with strong customer service skills;
  • Enjoyment at working with the public and a sincere and genuine interest in people of all ages, especially middle and high school students;
  • Flexibility, enthusiasm, and an attitude of respect for working with diverse staff and visitors;
  • Ability to react to change quickly and positively;
  • Strong voice and language skills; and
  • Knowledge of, or interest in, art history and architecture a plus.
Working Conditions
  • Must be able to work a flexible schedule, including weekends and occasional evenings. Open availability is required, including nights, weekends, and holidays.
  • This is a part time position (15-20 hours weekly with a potential of more hours per week if needed) during Cathedral bus seasons: March-June, and September-November.
  • Times will vary based on tour reservation needs
  • Occasional Saturdays required. Typically one Saturday per month.
  • Please include your schedule availability in your cover letter.
  • 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 comfortable working in a multi-function venue, as the Cathedral is an active house of worship and cultural heritage site.

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.

Apply Now

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