Museum Associate at The Sailing Museum & National Sailing Hall of Fame

Position Overview

The Museum Associate (MA) plays a vital role in delivering an engaging, welcoming, and educational experience for guests. This position blends retail operations, ticketing, basic inventory management and docent-style interpretation, serving visitors ranging from novice to highly experienced sailors. The MA is responsible for maintaining a high standard of customer service, supporting museum revenue through retail sales and membership upsell, and ensuring the museum and gift shop remain clean, organized, and visitor-ready throughout the day.

Key Responsibilities

Guest Experience & Docent Services

• • Welcome guests warmly, creating an inclusive and engaging environment
  • Guide visitors through interactive exhibits, tailoring interpretation for:
  • Novice sailors and first-time visitors
  • Experienced sailors and maritime enthusiasts
  • Answer questions about exhibits, programs, and museum offerings
  • Support special programs, group visits, and seasonal events as scheduled

Ticketing, Sales & Membership

• • Process admissions and retail transactions accurately using the POS and ticketing systems
  • Actively promote and upsell museum memberships, programs, and special events
  • Assist guests with online ticket purchases and membership sign-ups when applicable
  • Provide clear information on admission policies, schedules, and visitor flow

Gift Shop & Inventory Support

• • Handle gift shop purchases with attention to accuracy, cash handling, and customer service
  • Support gift shop merchandising and organization
  • Assist with inventory management, including:
  • Receiving and checking in merchandise
  • Restocking shelves and maintaining visual standards
  • Monitoring inventory levels and reporting low stock

Facilities & Daily Operations

• • Ensure museum galleries, interactive spaces, restrooms, and gift shop remain clean, safe, and orderly
  • Perform opening and closing duties as assigned
  • Monitor exhibit areas and report maintenance or safety concerns promptly
  • Follow museum procedures for security, cash handling, and guest safety

Event Support

• Associates will be responsible for supporting private and donor event activities which typically occur after hours
• Frequent activities include but are not limited to set up and breakdown of rental equipment, guest check-in, bathroom maintenance, and vendor support

Qualifications & Skills

• • Strong customer service and communication skills
  • Comfortable engaging with diverse audiences, including children and adults
  • Interest in maritime history, sailing, or museums (sailing experience a plus but not required)
  • Ability to learn exhibit content and present information clearly and enthusiastically
  • Retail, ticketing, or hospitality experience preferred but willing to train
  • Organized, detail-oriented, and reliable
  • Ability to stand for extended periods and perform light lifting (e.g., stocking merchandise)

Schedule, Availability & Transportation

• • Flexible availability required, including weekends, holidays, and special events
  • Part-time hours with increased scheduling during peak summer visitation
  • Regular and punctual attendance is required

What We Offer

• • A dynamic, guest-focused work environment in a nationally recognized museum
  • Training in museum interpretation, retail operations, and visitor services
  • Opportunity to build experience in cultural institutions, tourism, and nonprofit operations
  • Staff discounts and access to museum programs

What We Offer

• • A dynamic, guest-focused work environment in a nationally recognized museum
  • Training in museum interpretation, retail operations, and visitor services
  • Opportunity to build experience in cultural institutions, tourism, and nonprofit operations
  • Staff discounts and access to museum programs