Visitor Services Associate

Visitor Services Associate

Location: Earthplace, 10 Woodside Lane, Westport, CT

Schedule: Thursdays, 8:45am - 5:15pm, Fridays, 8:45am - 5:15pm, Saturdays 8:45am - 5:15pm

Reports to: Veronica Swain, Director of Nature Education and Conservation

About Earthplace

Earthplace is a center for nature discovery and environmental learning. We blend science, conservation, and education so people of all ages can experience the outdoors and take action for a more sustainable community.

Role summary

As the “first impression” for visitors, families, members, and volunteers, the Visitor Services Associate provides welcoming, informed, and efficient service at our lobby desk and in Natureplace, our indoor nature museum. You’ll handle check-ins, phones, payments, store transactions, recycling programs, and wayfinding while keeping public spaces safe, tidy, and engaging.

Key responsibilities

• Open/close public areas (Lobby, Natureplace, Lobby Store) per checklist; secure cash/POS and facilities at close.
• Greet and assist visitors; provide wayfinding, program information, and membership details; uphold house rules and safety guidelines.
• Answer phones and emails; triage inquiries; assist with program registrations.
• Process payments (admissions, store, memberships, donations) accurately; maintain petty cash; reconcile POS end-of-day.
• Log incidents, maintenance needs, lost & found, and visitor feedback; escalate as needed.
• Coordinate with the Events Coordinator about weekend programs, parties, and rentals.
• Welcome and sign in volunteers, vendors, and guest presenters.
• Help maintain a safe, clean, inclusive environment in Lobby/Natureplace (light cleaning/straightening throughout the day).

Natureplace Guidelines for Visitors

To keep Natureplace safe, fun, and engaging for all, Visitor Services staff model and reinforce these expectations:

• Use soft indoor voices & walking feet
• Keep feet on the ground
• Be mindful of others
• Gentle hands with exhibits
• Keep entry doors open
• Learn & have fun!

Qualifications

• Strong customer-service mindset; friendly, patient, and solutions-oriented in a busy, public setting.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills; comfortable with children and families.
• Detail-oriented with reliable cash-handling and POS accuracy.
• Proficient with web-based tools and basic office software (e.g., Word/Google Docs, Excel/Sheets); POS experience preferred.
• Able to work independently and exercise sound judgment with diplomacy and tact.
• Passion for nature and early childhood learning; bilingual a plus.
• Education: Bachelor’s degree or equivalent customer-facing experience.

Requirements

• Onsite weekend availability (both days) with occasional holiday coverage.
• Ability to stand for extended periods and lift/move up to 25 lbs.
• Successful background check; completion of required trainings (e.g., child-safety/mandated reporter, first aid/CPR—Earthplace can provide).

To apply

Email a single PDF (resume and short cover letter) to v.swain@earthplace.org In the subject line, specify, Visitor Services Associate (Weekends) – Your Name. Include two references (names and contact info). Resumes are reviewed on a rolling basis until filled.

EEO & inclusion

Earthplace is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees and visitors. If you need a reasonable accommodation during the application or interview process, please let us know.

Qualifications

• Strong customer-service mindset; friendly, patient, and solutions-oriented in a busy, public setting.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills; comfortable with children and families.
• Detail-oriented with reliable cash-handling and POS accuracy.
• Proficient with web-based tools and basic office software (e.g., Word/Google Docs, Excel/Sheets); POS experience preferred.
• Able to work independently and exercise sound judgment with diplomacy and tact.
• Passion for nature and early childhood learning; bilingual a plus.
• Education: Bachelor’s degree or equivalent customer-facing experience.

Requirements

• Onsite weekend availability (both days) with occasional holiday coverage.
• Ability to stand for extended periods and lift/move up to 25 lbs.
• Successful background check; completion of required trainings (e.g., child-safety/mandated reporter, first aid/CPR—Earthplace can provide).