Museum Attendant

Canada's Penitentiary Museum; Eastern Ontario; On-site; CAD 30,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A historical museum in Kingston, Ontario, is seeking summer museum attendants to monitor visitor access, maintain exhibits, and operate the gift shop. Ideal candidates will assist with providing information to visitors and maintaining the museum’s area. The position offers a contracted employment period from April 29, 2026, to September 7, 2026, with a pay rate of $17.60 per hour and a schedule that includes weekends and holidays.

Responsibilities

• Monitor Museum access, orient visitors, and maintain daily attendance records.
• Circulate throughout the Museum to monitor visitors, exhibits, and safety.
• Inspect displays for damage or safety issues.
• Maintain cleanliness of exhibits, high-traffic areas, and washrooms.
• Answer visitor questions regarding exhibits, policies, and facilities.
• Open and close the Museum following established procedures.
• Operate the gift shop, including transactions, customer service, and inventory monitoring.
• Assist with basic outdoor grounds maintenance as needed.
• Support the Curator and assist with additional tasks as required.

Job description

Overview

Canada’s Penitentiary Museum is seeking museum attendants for the summer season.

ABOUT THE MUSEUM Located in Cedarhedge, the former Warden’s residence of Kingston Penitentiary, the Museum is dedicated exclusively to preserving and interpreting the history of Canada’s federal penitentiaries. Across several floors, exhibits highlight everything from daring escapes and contraband to inmate art.

Position Details

Contract Period: April 29, 2026 to September 7, 2026
Pay: $17.60
Hours: 37.5 hours per week
Schedule: Includes weekends, holidays, and occasional overtime

Key Responsibilities

• Monitor Museum access, orient visitors, and maintain daily attendance records
• Circulate throughout the Museum to monitor visitors, exhibits, and safety
• Inspect displays for damage or safety issues
• Maintain cleanliness of exhibits, high-traffic areas, and washrooms
• Answer visitor questions regarding exhibits, policies, and facilities
• Open and close the Museum following established procedures
• Operate the gift shop, including transactions, customer service, and inventory monitoring
• Assist with basic outdoor grounds maintenance as needed
• Support the Curator and assist with additional tasks as required