Maker Space Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Duties: Under the general supervision of the Visitor & Member Engagement Manager, the PlayHouse Floor Staff will be responsible for:

• Visitor Engagement & Customer Service:
  • Welcome and interact with visitors, including the general public, school groups, birthday parties, and privately booked groups.
  • Ensure a positive and engaging experience by answering questions about PlayHouse programs, ticket options, and museum offerings.
  • Promote and sell admissions, memberships, programs, and gift shop items.
  • Lead and facilitate play experiences through exhibits, workshops, and educational programs.
  • Assist with visitor check-in for workshops and events.
  • Maintain a thorough understanding of museum programs and operations.
• Exhibit & Facility Maintenance:
  • Perform daily opening and closing procedures, including cleaning and resetting exhibits.
  • Conduct routine spot cleaning throughout the day and participate in weekly deep cleaning.
  • Report supply needs, exhibit repairs, or maintenance concerns to the appropriate supervisor.
  • Assist in organizing and maintaining the front desk, exhibits, and museum spaces.
• Educational & Program Facilitation:
  • Lead planned and impromptu group activities, special events, and workshops.
  • Prepare materials for educational programs, workshops, and off-site outreach.
  • Teach Home School and Scout programs in the maker space.
  • Assist visitors in the maker space, guiding them through the use of tools and materials to complete projects.
  • Conduct program evaluations by gathering visitor feedback.
• Administrative & Clerical Tasks:
  • Perform cashier duties, handling cash, checks, and card transactions.
  • Answer and direct phone calls, complete data entry, and assist with clerical tasks.
  • Process in-kind donations of craft and carpentry materials.
  • Attend all required staff meetings and training sessions.
• Exhibit an understanding and promotion of PlayHouse's mission and core values in all areas of work and interactions.
• Follow all safety procedures that pertain to the duties performed; support all aspects of the Park District's safety program.
• Perform all other duties as assigned.

Essential Functions: Physically able to manage a group of children and families in the PlayHouse space and outdoors. The work requires periodic physical exertion in handling supplies, equipment, and materials typical of the hospitality industry. Prolonged standing, bending, stooping and ability to lift and carry up to 40 pounds are required on a periodic basis. Must be able to bend at waist and knees in order to file and stock. The indoor work environment is adequately lighted, heated, and ventilated.

Education: A high school diploma or equivalent is required. Some college is preferred. Experience in a similar role may be substituted for all or part of the educational requirements.

Experience: Experience working with children in some capacity, formally or informally. Experience or desire to work with a highly diverse audience in a busy atmosphere. Successful completion of school science classes or the ability to learn science concepts on the job. A background in education, art, or early childhood development is a plus.

Knowledge and Ability:

• Ability to work with others to make sure programs and other educational offerings are enjoyable and successful.
• Interest in and commitment to educational best practices.
• Ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously with a minimal degree of supervisory oversight.
• Must be able to work with children of all ages, as well as adults.
• Must show interest in children and families.
• Ability to arrive on time at locations around Peoria.
• Must have excellent customer service, problem solving and organizational skills
• Ability to maintain focus and professional demeanor in a highly demanding atmosphere.
• Ability to create an atmosphere of teamwork and positive energy among staff and volunteers.
• Ability to establish and maintain good working relationships with co-workers and the general public.
• Must demonstrate an ongoing commitment to learning and innovation.
• Ability to be professional, respectful, accountable, innovative, to follow safety procedures, and be equitable to both internal and external customers
• Interest and commitment to the mission of the Peoria PlayHouse and the welfare of local children and families.
• Must demonstrate an ongoing commitment to learning and innovation.
• Ideal candidates should show interest and ability to cross-train in other positions, such as Admissions Attendant, Playologist, and Maker Playologist in Real Tools.

Perks:

• Part-time employees enjoy discounted recreation classes and free admission to select Park District facilities.

The Peoria Park District hires without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, citizenship status, ancestry, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, pregnancy, military status or unfavorable discharge from military service, protected veteran status, or on the basis of any characteristic protected by law.

All qualified individuals are encouraged to apply.

AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER.