Guest Relations Specialist

Position Title: Guest Relations Specialist (Temp/Part Time)

Work Location: In-Person

Classification: Part Time/Temporary
FLSA Status: Non-Exempt

About Griffiss Institute:

Griffiss Institute is a 501c3 nonprofit organization based in Rome, NY, accelerating national security innovation through its three-pillar mission of Talent, Technology, and Venture Development. As the steward of the Innovare Advancement Center, an open, unclassified research and collaboration campus, Griffiss Institute fosters and drives partnerships across government, industry, and academia to advance dual-use technologies. Griffiss Institute is committed to strengthening national security through nontraditional STEM education, accelerated innovation, and the commercialization of emerging technologies, with a deep belief in American-made solutions, the reshoring of advanced manufacturing, and the development of a resilient U.S. science and engineering workforce. To learn more visit us at www.griffissinstitute.org

Position Summary:

Seeking a driven, outgoing, and customer service-minded individual who enjoys working in a fast-paced team environment. This temporary position focuses on delivering impactful and memorable guest experiences that reflect GI’s commitment to excellence. The ideal candidate will demonstrate strong organizational skills, computer proficiency, and excellent writing and verbal skills. Schedule flexibility including evenings and weekends.

What will you do?

• Welcome and engage with guests and provide elevated customer service in person and by phone,ensuring a professional and positive experience.
• Communicate effectively with team members on guests, events, facility, partners, and program happenings and requests
• Support daily guest services operations including meeting room coordination, reservations, and setup.
• Manage event refreshments, including coffee setup and cleanup.
• Maintain inventory and cleanliness of the staff refreshment area.
• Oversee the appearance and functionality of public areas (Welcome Center, Hive, and rental spaces).
• Utilize digital tools such as Outlook, Teams, and reservation systems for scheduling and communication.
• Participate in necessary team meetings

Supervises:

This is not a supervisory role. Occasional work direction to interns, project staff and contractors may be required.

Responsibilities and Duties:

• Demonstrate excellent communication skills with diverse audiences.
• Maintain professionalism and composure in dynamic or emergency situations.
• Uphold high standards for customer service and organizational excellence.
• Efficiently use office technology including Microsoft Office Suite, Smartsheet, Teams, and Zoom.
• Exhibit initiative by seeking clarification when needed and following through on assigned tasks.
• Apply sound judgment to resolve issues and enhance guest satisfaction.

Qualifications /Skills and Abilities:

Required:

• Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
• Experience in customer service or front desk/reception environments.
• Proficiency with digital calendar systems, word processing, and visitor registration tools.
• Professional demeanor with a high level of integrity, tact, and diplomacy.
• Ability to multitask and stay organized in a dynamic environment.

Preferred:

• Familiarity with local Rome/Mohawk Valley area and its organizations.
• Prior experience supporting events or facility operations.
• Knowledge of marketing or hospitality practices is a plus.

Experience:

• Demonstrated experiences with:
• Must have excellent clerical skills.
• Engages professionally with team, board, and guests.
• Must possess tact, diplomacy and a cooperative attitude.

Education/Licensure/Certifications:

High school diploma required; associate degree or two years of relevant experience preferred.

Schedule and Location:

This position is based at Griffiss Institute’s headquarters in Rome, NY. A flexible schedule is required, including occasional evenings and weekends to support events.

Security Clearance Eligibility:

• Incumbents will not be expected to hold a clearance.

Physical Requirements and Work Environment:

The physical requirements and work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

The Griffiss Institute is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to an inclusive and uplifting culture and practices that make everyone feel welcome. We embrace and celebrate diversity as a driver of good decisions and better business results. All applicants will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran, or disability status.

Job Types: Part-time, Temporary

Pay: $20.00 - $25.00 per hour

Expected hours: 20 – 30 per week

Work Location: In person

Salary : $20 - $25