Interpretive Guide Jobs in Washington, DC (NOW HIRING)

Description

Washington National Cathedral is searching for an outgoing, energetic, and communicative Guest Services Associate. This part time position 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 and 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.

This is a part-time position with hours scheduled based on the needs of the Cathedral. Flexibility is essential, as the role requires availability on weekends, evenings, and holidays. Additional hours may be needed during peak seasons (mid-February through June, and December). Candidates with open and adaptable availability will be given strong consideration.

Duties and Responsibilities:

Individual/Small Group Sightseeing

• Process transactions at the welcome desk, including sightseeing admission, donations, retail items, 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 directions to group leaders/chaperones.

Individual and 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 directed by 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 eventgoers, worshipers, and meeting attendees.
• Monitor doors and scan tickets as guests enter the Cathedral.

Perform other duties as assigned.

Requirements

Minimum Qualifications:

1. At least one year of customer service experience.

2. High School diploma or GED.

3. Two years' customer service experience, preferably in a high volume and visitor friendly atmosphere.

4. Open availability. This role will have shifts available on nights, weekends, and holidays.

Knowledge, Skills, Abilities:

1. Excellent interpersonal and communications skills with a helpful, friendly attitude; team-oriented disposition with strong customer service skills.

2. Ability to react quickly and positively.

3. Sensitivity to the needs of a diverse public, including the ability to interact with those in need of pastoral care.

4. Basic computer skills are required.

5. Ability to handle cash and provide change.

6. Ability to multitask during periods of high volume.

7. Ability to operate radio/walkie-talkie communications.

Preferred Qualifications

1. Experience in events or the hospitality industry is a plus.

2. Proficiency in other languages is a plus.

3. Experience as a tour guide is strongly preferred.

Working Conditions:

• Scheduling: This is a part-time position with hours scheduled based on the needs of the Cathedral. Flexibility is essential, as the role requires availability on weekends, evenings, and holidays. Additional hours may be needed during peak seasons (mid-February through June, and December). Candidates with open and adaptable availability will be given strong consideration.
• Physical requirements:
• 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, and balance.
• Must be able to work on foot for extended periods of time, frequently ascend and descend stairs, and walk throughout the entry spaces.
• 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.

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: Commensurate to market value and experience, starting at $22 per hour.