Front Desk Associate & Tour Docent (Part- Time)

Position Overview

The Marathon County Historical Society is seeking a part-time Front Desk Associate & Tour.

Docent to support daily operations at the Woodson History Center and provide guided tours of

The Yawkey House Museum.

This role is ideal for someone who enjoys working with the public, takes pride in maintaining

welcoming spaces, and is comfortable balancing independent tasks with visitor interaction. In

addition to front desk coverage and tours, this position supports the overall visitor experience

through operational, organizational, and event preparation work.

Schedule:

● Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday: 12:00 PM – 4:30 PM

● Every other weekend (Sat/Sun): 12:30 PM – 4:30 PM

● Total Hours: Weeks with weekend work: 26hrs, Weeks without weekend work: 18hrs, Pay Period Total: 44hrs

Primary Responsibilities

Front Desk & Visitor Experience

● Welcome visitors and provide information about exhibits, programs, tours, and services

● Answer and direct incoming phone calls; take messages as needed

● Assist with gift shop purchases and maintain daily sales and visitor logs

● Offer brochures, encourage memberships, and suggest donations when appropriate

● Maintain a clean, organized, and professional reception area

● Monitor visitor flow and ensure a positive, engaging experience for all guests

Tour Docent – Yawkey House Museum

● Serve as the primary docent for Yawkey House tours during scheduled shifts

● Provide guided tours at 1:00 PM and 3:00 PM, as requested

● Deliver accurate and engaging information about the Yawkey House and its history

● Coordinate with staff to ensure front desk coverage during tours

Operations & Visitor Experience Support

During times when tours and front desk activity are lighter, this role supports the overall

museum experience through:

● Restocking brochures and visitor materials

● Ensuring exhibit spaces are clean, functional, and visitor-ready

● Organizing and maintaining front desk and gift shop areas

● Monitoring inventory needs and communicating restocking needs

● Preparing materials and spaces for upcoming programs and events

● Assisting with basic administrative or organizational tasks as needed

Event & Program Support

● Assist with pre-event setup, including arranging furniture and preparing program spaces

● Support event readiness by organizing supplies and materials

● Assist with resetting and organizing spaces following events

Opening & Closing Duties

● Prepare museum spaces for visitors, including lights, signage, and general readiness

● At closing:

○ Ensure all visitors have exited

○ Turn off lights and equipment

○ Secure both buildings (alarms, locks, etc.)

Qualifications

● Strong interpersonal and communication skills

● Comfortable speaking with individuals and small groups

● Reliable, self-directed, and able to manage time independently

● Interest in history, museums, or education preferred

● Basic computer and cash-handling experience preferred

Physical Requirements

● Ability to stand and walk for extended periods

● Ability to climb stairs multiple times per shift

● Ability to lift to 35 lbs

Additional Information

● Training will be provided for: Yawkey House tour content, Front desk procedures & Customer service expectations