Museum Store Sales Associate

Job Type Part-timeDescriptionReports to: Store ManagerClassification: Hourly, non-exemptSchedule: 25 hours per week, with the ability to work weekends required (This is not a seasonal position. We are looking for individuals that are available year round.)This is an onsite, Boston-based position. Local candidates strongly preferred. Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum Core ValuesIsabella Stewart Gardner believed that art had the power to change lives and she built a beautiful, personal, and immersive Museum setting to do so. Today the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum (ISGM) is a living embodiment of her bold vision; it's a dynamic place where ideas and creativity in all its forms inspire visitors. Through exhibitions, music, programs, and performances we strive to tell new stories and challenge assumptions by engaging diverse voices and community members.The Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum seeks to connect past with present, develop and sustain mutually beneficial partnerships with our local communities and artists, expand and diversify our audiences, and generate opportunities for creativity. We are firmly committed to creating both an inclusive work culture and a welcoming visitor experience. Our five-year strategic plan outlines the Museum's core values, goals, and initiatives that serve as a renewal of Isabella's promise for the Museum to be a place for "the education and enjoyment of the public forever."Department and Position OverviewGift at the Gardner, a unique destination spot within the visual splendor of the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum, inspires the senses with products that reflect the Museum's mission, its historical collection, our relationship with contemporary artists, music, and landscape.The Museum Store Sales Associate will partner with the Store Manager and colleagues to help our customers find the perfect memento for their visit to the Gardner Museum. The Sales Associate will be knowledgeable about the products presented, fluent in the services that the Museum has to offer, and will promote the Museum's mission, exhibitions, programs, and special events. As a representative of the Museum, the Sales Associate will maintain the highest level of courtesy and service to the visiting public. The hourly rate for this position is $20.00.Essential Functions and ResponsibilitiesCustomer Service Arrive on time for all assigned shiftsCreate a welcoming experience for customers by providing excellent customer servicePrepare the store for daily opening and closing in a safe and efficient manner; count cash drawers, ensure POS equipment is properly working, replenish back stock of products and all other store suppliesAssist with in-person transactions, online order pick-ups, and phone special ordersMaintain merchandise displays and store appearance, ensuring the sales floor is fully stocked and visually inspiringRemain knowledgeable about store sales goals and actively participate in achieving those goalsDemonstrate knowledge about the store's products and policies, as well as exhibitions and programs happening in the Museum. Demeanor and Interpersonal Relationships Warmly engage customers and ask open-ended questions to uncover their needsBe a friendly and approachable presence to all customers in our store and courteously respond to all inquiriesUtilize sales talents to excite customers about our product assortment and close salesRemain calm and patient during peak traffic times Teamwork and Collaboration Assist the Store Manager and colleagues in administrative activities related to store operations and setting up for special events and special salesCommunicate with colleagues in a joint effort to close sales and maintain flow of merchandise as a team Problem Solving Possess a solutions-oriented approach to customer inquiriesBe able to think on your feet to troubleshoot minor problems; ask for help from Store Manager or colleagues when necessaryPerform other duties as assigned Requirements High school diploma or equivalentOutstanding customer service backgroundPrior professional retail sales experience; prior luxury goods experience a plusAbility to work well in a team environment; exceptional interpersonal skillsProactive; able to multitask and prioritizeReliable and promptComfortable and competent working with numbers/figuresFamiliarity and comfort with using POS systemsAbility to safely lift up to 40 pounds; ability to climb laddersAbility to stand for extended periods of timeThis is not a seasonal position. We are looking for individuals that are available year round and will not consider applicants that can only work during the summer.Legal authorization to work in the United States. Must complete a pre-employment background check to the Museum's satisfaction.Equal Opportunity EmployerThe Museum is committed to affording equal opportunity to qualified individuals regardless of race, color, religion, age (40 or older), disability, national origin, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, genetic information, pregnancy, childbirth or related conditions, ancestry, or status as a veteran. Consistent with our core values and our founder's legacy, the Museum is dedicated to building a work community that fosters collaboration, excellence, belonging, and a diversity of perspectives and experience.Request An AccommodationApplicants with disabilities who are unable to fully access ISGM's online application system may contact us at hr@isgm.org for assistance with a reasonable accommodation.Salary Description $20.00 per hour