This position is the first point of contact for visitors to the Aspen Art Museum. Guides share information about the museum, the exhibitions, and programs with visitors and are available to assistant visitors throughout their time in the museum. Guides also assist our security department in protecting the museum, visitors, staff, and art against fire, theft, and accidents. Our guides are art enthusiasts who enjoy delivering excellent service and creating a seamless facilitation of the visitor experience.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

COMMUNICATION

• Welcome, orient, and direct visitors while maintaining the ability to introduce and discuss current and upcoming exhibitions, artists and programs.
• Introduce and discuss the building’s physical layout, including the galleries, sculpture garden, cafe, shop, and key architectural features.
• Introduce and discuss the museum's functions, including its public programs, membership programs, educational programs, and special events, as well as the daily schedule of events.
• Staff the galleries as assigned and the service desk if needed.
• Observe visitors and take appropriate measures to protect art, visitors and staff -- including alerting security personnel whenever needed.
• Graciously require visitors to place personal belongings that are inappropriate for the galleries in the coat room.
• Effectively assist in emergency situations with crowd control and evacuation.
• Assist visitors with general, local information (e.g., directions, transportation, parking, and local know how).
• Other duties as assigned.

GENERAL FACILITY UPKEEP

• Maintain the museum's galleries and other public spaces during shifts, including making sure galleries and hallways are presentable and clean, refilling printed material, and notifying security personnel if additional maintenance is needed.
• Inspect art objects, signage, lighting, furnishings and other features of the museum for indications of change or damage.
• Report any change in condition immediately to the security officer on-duty and guide manager.
• Other duties as assigned.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Ability to represent the museum with a high level of integrity and professionalism, adhere to museum policies, and support management decisions in a positive and professional manner.
• Ability to communicate effectively with individuals of varying social and cultural backgrounds.
• Ability to work positively with the public, colleagues, members, artists, donors, and volunteers.
• Ability to provide excellent visitor service -- including the ability to be both friendly and authoritative.
• Ability to remain calm in stressful situations, effectively use conflict-resolution skills, and help resolve issues with courtesy.
• Ability to anticipate, intervene, and help prevent potentially harmful situations that could affect people and/or objects of art. 
• Knowledge of security operations, safety practices, and enforcement procedures.
• Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, product information manuals, and instructions, as well as the ability to communicate effectively in writing.
• Attention to detail with excellent organizational and task management skills.
• Familiarity with standard computer applications, including email, Word, Excel, and file management.
• Ability to sit and/or stand for up to four hours at a time, as well as the ability to stay alert for long periods of time in quiet environments.
• Dependability, flexibility, and adaptability.

Requirements and Qualifications 

High school diploma or GED with at least two years of customer/guest service work experience, preferably in security, museums, art galleries, or similar environments. A combination of experiences that provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities may be considered. The Aspen Art Museum is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes applicants from diverse backgrounds. We are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. 

Hours and Work Schedule

This is an hourly position requiring availability for day, evening, and holiday shifts. The Guide position is nonexempt from the Fair Labor Standards Act and will receive overtime pay for all hours worked in excess of forty in a seven-day workweek.