Chautauqua Ambassador Driver (Program Office) /Seasonal Employment

The Program Office team brings artist and creator visions to life by providing by supporting the behind‑the‑scenes needs of hundreds of events each summer — from orchestral performances and lectures to special programs, presentations, and gatherings. Our Ambassador Drivers are an essential part of that work. They are often the first hello and the final farewell of our guest experience, setting the tone for their entire Chautauqua experience.

This role is ideal for individuals who enjoy purpose-driven work, clear communication, and representing a beloved institution with care and discretion.  This role requires individuals who are responsible, self‑aware, and committed to showing up ready to provide safe and professional service.

About Your Compensation  

Compensation for this position starts at $16.00/Hour and, with demonstrated experience and qualifications, candidates may earn up to $18.50/Hour. 

About Your Work Day 

• Maintain strict guest confidentiality at all times, exercising discretion and refraining from sharing guest identities or travel details

• Provide a warm, confident, and professional greeting while representing Chautauqua in all interactions

• Deliver welcome materials, tickets, and guest packets in a timely and organized manner

• Communicate clearly and collaborate effectively within a team-oriented environment

• Maintain consistent communication with dispatchers and guest house contacts to coordinate transportation needs

• Utilize Institution-provided cloud-based and mobile technology to monitor flights, delays, traffic, and team communications

• Ensure vehicles are clean, well-maintained, and presentable inside and out

• Refuel vehicles, report safety concerns, and support efficient daily transportation operations

• Engage respectfully with gate staff, housing partners, and Program Office team members

• Safely handle and transport luggage up to 75 lbs., including carrying items into accommodations (may involve stairs)

• Operate passenger vehicles, including minivans and 12-passenger vans, on local roads and highways

• Maintain reliable attendance and demonstrate broad availability, including weekends, to support guest travel needs

About the Referral Program

Chautauqua Institution’s Referral Bonus Program is a talent solution to recruit, develop, and retain a diverse workforce that encompasses all the skills and experience necessary to deliver on our goals and objectives. Chautauqua Institution will provide a $500 referral bonus (less taxes) for active employees referring a new candidate who is hired and remains employed for at least 90-days from the first physical date of work. In the case of seasonal positions working less than 6-months, the new candidate must remain actively employed for at least 30-days from the first physical date of work and until the closing date of the season. The closing date of the season is the last Sunday in August.

About Your Schedule 

Chautauqua Institution and Chautauqua Hotel Company offer flexible schedules, full and part-time, for seasonal employment during summer operations starting annually each June and concluding in August.  Seasonal employment may be available earlier (pre-season) and beyond season (post-season) based on business needs and candidate availability.  Schedules typically include evenings, weekends, and/or holidays as a requirement. 

While you will confirm your final schedule with management at the time of an interview and offer of employment, you should generally anticipate the following schedule options for this position:   

During season generally works a 25-30 hours per week within a schedule covering 3 AM – 11 PM, 7 days a week, with some early morning and late night hours. Scheduled hours may include early morning, late night, weekends, and holidays and are based on business needs.

Ambassador Drivers support guest arrivals and departures throughout the day and night, which means shifts can start early in the morning or end later in the evening

• • Example: 4am and 11pm shift starts are frequent.

About Living on the Grounds 

No employer-provided housing is available for this position. Applicants should plan to secure independent housing or reside within a commutable distance. 

About Chautauqua Institution

Chautauqua Institution is a not-for-profit global convener of dialogue on the most significant issues of the day through engagement across four pillars of the arts, education, religion, and recreation. The Chautauqua community is located on the shores of Chautauqua Lake in southwestern New York State and comes alive each summer with a unique mix of visual and performing arts, lectures, interfaith worship/programs, and recreational activities.  Chautauqua Institution owns and operates Chautauqua Hotel Company, a comprehensive hotel, food & beverage, conferencing, and events organization.   

Discovering Your Chautauqua Experience

There are countless ways that our talent will engage with our mission, vision, and diverse communities, and you are invited to immerse yourself in our programming as a gateway to this experience.  Employees will receive a traditional Chautauqua gate pass, free of cost, which provides access to many of our programs at the Amphitheater.  

Our Commitment to IDEA

Chautauqua Institution values Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, and Accessibility (IDEA) as a priority in our strategic plan, 150 Forward.  One of our five core values is “The dignity and contributions of all people.”  We are committed to creating conditions where everyone can engage as complete and valued participants in the Chautauqua experience.  The Institution is an equal-opportunity employer committed to equitable and inclusive hiring practices.  Applicants and employees will not be discriminated against based on any status protected under federal, state, or local law. We especially welcome applications from those who can demonstrate experience, engagement, and professional expertise in IDEA.

Joining Our Talent Community

Join our talent community online at CHQ.org/employment.  You are encouraged to learn more about Chautauqua Institution at CHQ.org and view the 150 Forward Strategic Plan at 150fwd.CHQ.org.