Patron Services Associate

The Contemporary Arts Center (CAC)  is currently seeking applications for the part-time position of Patron Services Associate. This role is integral to ensuring that the CAC is accessible and welcoming for patrons. Ideal candidates will be detail-oriented, well-spoken, energetic, approachable and dedicated to providing the highest level of customer service, safety and engagement for those visiting the CAC.

The CAC welcomes a high volume of patrons each year for art exhibitions, live performances, events, rehearsals and more.  It is open every day from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. It remains open later occasionally for evening shows and events. This role is an essential public-facing, front-line position that executes visitor services, gallery services, and front-of-house theatre responsibilities.

Key Responsibilities

• Engage proactively with guests, greeting them and offering accurate instructions, directions, recommendations artistic context to enhance their visit.
  
• Create a warm and welcoming environment for all patrons to have a positive and enriching experience.
  
• Address and resolve patron concerns or complaints professionally and efficiently, escalating complex issues to the Patron Services Managers when necessary.
  

• Actively support accessibility programs and initiatives by assisting patrons who require accommodations and ensuring those needs are met.

• Ensure that safety and security standards and protocols are followed by all visitors to the campus, enforcing venue policies and taking appropriate action when needed.
  

• Work closely and effectively with other departments.
  
• Complete opening and closing procedures, as scheduled, to prepare and to secure the building at the end of each day.
  
• Operate ticket scanners and manage entry; monitor visitor flow and ensure public spaces remain orderly, safe and accessible.
  
• Conduct regular checks of exhibit areas to maintain cleanliness and functionality.
  

• Ensure that theatre spaces are prepared for each event, including cleanliness and tidiness of lobby areas, restrooms, entrances/exits and theatre seating areas.
  
• Work closely with other departments and volunteer ushers to ensure efficient audience flow, accurate patron seating, distribution of accessibility devices and attention to patron needs before, during and after performances.
  
• Under the direction of the House Manager, enforce theatre policies regarding late seating, health and safety compliance, noise disturbance and the use of electronic devices for photography or audio/video recording.
  

• Know and understand the CAC’s emergency action plan and respond calmly and precisely to execute appropriate procedures in the event of an emergency.

• Must be available to work evenings, weekends and holidays.
  
• Possess stamina to stand for long periods of time and be able to move or lift up to 25 pounds, with assistance.
  
• Complete ongoing training benchmarks for front-line staff.
  
• Perform other duties as assigned.
  

Qualifications

• Strong interpersonal and communication skills with a customer-focused mindset
  
• Positive, collaborative and resourceful attitude but flexible, with effective decision-making and problem-solving skills
  
• Ability to remain calm and professional in a high-volume environment and to adapt to changing conditions and requirements
  
• Familiarity with—or ability to learn—email and ticketing systems, MSOffice or Google Workspace
  
• Demonstrated interest in multidisciplinary arts; previous experience working in a cultural institution 
  
•  Experience safeguarding art/security position