Travel Coordinator (Program Office)/Seasonal Employment

The Program Office brings artist and creator visions to life by providing behind-the-house support for events and programs. There are multiple events each day, including music and orchestral productions, visual presentations, special functions, lectures, conferences, and meetings.

The Travel Coordinator will be responsible for the coordination of the Chautauqua Ambassador Drivers as they transport staff, contracted guests, artists and talent to and from the Institution.  As the coordinator, your role will include full support of the Ambassador Driver team’s communications, scheduling, administrative duties, and fleet equipment readiness.

About Your Compensation  

Compensation for this position starts at $18.00/Hour and, with demonstrated experience and qualifications, candidates may earn up to $20.00/Hour. 

About Your Work Day 

• Manage and coordinate daily transportation operations, including scheduling, dispatching, and real-time adjustments based on guest travel needs and logistics
• Oversee Ambassador Driver team operations, including communication, weekly meetings, and performance support to ensure high-quality guest service
• Coordinate airport transfers (primarily to/from Buffalo), local transportation, and on-campus shuttling services
• Utilize scheduling systems and mobile technology to organize travel, monitor changes, and support team communication
• Supervise vehicle fleet operations, ensuring cleanliness, safety, and coordination with vendors and rental partners
• Develop and maintain coverage schedules, including overnight and emergency support
• Work a flexible schedule based on guest travel demands, including early mornings, evenings, weekends, and overnight availability
• Strong organizational, communication, and team leadership skills
• Proficiency with Excel, scheduling systems, mobile devices, and payroll processes
• Ability to maintain strict guest confidentiality and respond to needs or emergencies outside standard business hours

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: 

Will be scheduled to work an average of 35 to 40-hours/week. Work hours may include nights, weekends, and holidays, based on business needs.

• Ambassador Driver shifts start times vary from 4:00 am to 11:00 pm and last-minute changes are part of the daily work routine.

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.