Patron Experience Ambassador (Patron Services)/Seasonal Employment

There are four information centers within the Chautauqua grounds.  At the Main Gate Welcome Center there is the Information Office and the Business Center.  On-grounds there is the Visitors Center and Colonnade Lobby.  Each one is staffed with knowledgeable Ambassadors who help patrons and staff have an outstanding Chautauqua experience by providing detailed information about programs, events and how to navigate the grounds.  This is a fast-paced environment where team members work quickly and accurately while maintaining a welcoming and professional demeanor.

About Your Compensation  

Compensation for this position starts at $16.00/Hour and, with demonstrated experience and qualifications, candidates may earn up to $17.50/Hour. 

About Your Work Day

• Provides navigational directions to businesses, accommodations, & venues.  This is done in-person, website chat and email.
• Provides support with website navigation. Includes explaining chq.org website to patrons.  This is done in-person, website chat and email.
• Provides support with CHQ Assembly platform navigation. This is done in-person, website chat and email.
• Acts as a Contact Center service representative.  This is done by computer using Ring Central.  Includes responding to phone calls, transferring phone calls, live chat and email. 
• Provide support for patrons with the accommodations website.
• Uses Microsoft SharePoint to find information for patrons.    
• Facilitates use and rental transactions of Business Center spaces and services using SKEDDA software. 
• Instructs Business Center patrons on use of technology; including setting up a laptop.
• Processes Business Suite, scooter & wheelchair rental transactions using the ticket system.
• Cleaning and charging all scooters and wheelchairs that are returned during the nine-week season. 
• Instructs guests on safe use and operation of rental equipment. 
• Sanitizes and cleaning office space an equipment, stock pamphlets. 
• Contributes to team goals established by Patron Relations department. 
• Communicates effectively with Supervisors and Managers as needed to problem solve. 

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:   

Typically work between the operation hours of 8:00 a.m.-8:00 p.m. with varying shifts with hours ranging from 20-26/week.  

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.