Seasonal Museum Assistant

SEASONAL MUSEUM ASSISTANT

DEFINITION

To assist in the daily operations of the City’s museums; to support volunteer coordination, collections care, exhibits, and educational programming and events; to enhance communication among staff, volunteers, and the public; and to perform related duties as assigned.

SUPERVISION RECEIVED AND EXERCISED

Receives general supervision from the Cultural Facilities Curator. May provide direction to volunteers and temporary staff.

EXAMPLES OF ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS - Essential functions may include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Assists with daily museum operations across multiple sites, including opening and closing facilities in accordance with established procedures.
• Provides excellent customer service by greeting guests, answering inquiries, and offering information on exhibits, programs, and historical content.
• Assists in coordinating volunteer activities, schedules, and communications to ensure consistent coverage and engagement at each site.
• Supports the planning, setup, and facilitation of public programs, school tours, and community events.
• Provides clerical and administrative support including recordkeeping and correspondence.
• Assists with exhibit maintenance and updates; helps prepare and install interpretive displays and signage.
• Supports the care, cleaning, and preservation of museum collections under the guidance of the Cultural Facilities Curator.
• Performs light custodial and facility maintenance duties to maintain clean and safe public spaces.
• Assists in developing and distributing outreach materials; supports social media and marketing efforts to promote programs and events.
• Provides assistance in compiling attendance, volunteer hours, and activity reports.
• Monitors museum security and safety procedures; reports maintenance or safety concerns promptly.
• Participates in staff meetings, training sessions, and safety briefings.
• Performs related duties as assigned.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Knowledge of:

• Basic principles and practices of museum operations, visitor services, and public engagement.
• Methods and techniques used in exhibit preparation and collections care.
• Proper handling and care of historical artifacts and materials.
• Volunteer coordination and community outreach practices.
• Modern office procedures, recordkeeping, and computer applications.
• Basic maintenance and custodial practices.
• Safe work practices and emergency procedures.

Ability to:

• Learn and apply City and department policies, procedures, and standards.
• Communicate effectively with the public, staff, and volunteers in a courteous and professional manner.
• Assist in the planning and delivery of programs, tours, and events.
• Maintain accurate records and prepare simple reports.
• Perform light custodial and facility maintenance tasks.
• Operate office equipment, including computers and associated software, Microsoft Suite and point-of-sale systems.
• Exercise sound judgment and attention to detail in handling artifacts and interacting with the public.
• Meet the physical requirements necessary to safely perform assigned duties.

Experience:

• One year of experience in a customer service, educational, or administrative support role is required.
• Experience working or volunteering in a museum, cultural center, or historic site is desirable.

Education:

• High school diploma or GED equivalent.
• Coursework or degree in history, anthropology, museum studies, education, or a related field is desirable.

Additional Requirements:

• Possession of a valid California driver’s license.
• Possession of valid CPR and First Aid certification is desirable.

TYPICAL WORKING CONDITIONS

Work is performed primarily indoors in a museum or historic facility environment and occasionally outdoors during events or site maintenance. Incumbents may be exposed to dust, cleaning agents, temperature fluctuations, and moderate noise levels. May require working flexible hours, including weekends and holidays.

TYPICAL PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

Requires the ability to stand and walk for extended periods; sit occasionally; bend, stoop, kneel, reach, and climb stairs; lift and/or move up to 40 pounds; use hands to handle and operate objects, tools, and equipment; see and hear well enough to engage visitors and maintain site safety. Must be able to use a telephone and computer for communication and data entry.

This class specification lists the major duties and requirements of the job and is not all-inclusive. Incumbents may be expected to perform job-related duties other than those contained in this document.

Job Type: Seasonal

Pay: $18.73 - $26.35 per hour

Work Location: In person

Salary : $19 - $26