Astronomy Gift Shop & Visitor Center Associate

Association of Universities for Research in Astronomy; Tucson (AZ); On-site; USD 19,320 - 27,517; Part time

Benefits offered by this job

Paid time off

Retirement plan contributions

Attractive work environment

Job summary

The Association of Universities for Research in Astronomy (AURA) invites applications for a Part-Time Gift Shop Customer Service Representative at the Kitt Peak Visitor Center in Arizona. You will welcome visitors, handle tickets, sales, and inventory, delivering outstanding customer experiences in a retail environment.

The role requires weekend and holiday availability, prior POS experience, and a passion for science outreach.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Minimum two years of experience in a retail, customer service, hospitality, tourism, or nonprofit setting.
• Experience operating a computerized POS system and handling cash accurately.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to follow cash-handling procedures.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and exercise sound judgment in customer interactions.
• Strong organizational skills and the ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
• Proficiency with computers including email, internet applications, scheduling systems, and retail software.
• Ability to work most weekends and some holidays.

Responsibilities

• Greet visitors in person, by phone, and through other channels.
• Provide accurate information about observatory programs, tours, and services.
• Deliver outstanding customer service with a professional demeanor.
• Handle inquiries tactfully and maintain visitor experience.
• Open/close the Visitor Center and Gift Shop as assigned.
• Operate the POS system to process sales, returns, and inventory adjustments.

Skills

Customer service

Attention to detail

Interpersonal skills

Confidentiality

Organization

Independent work

Computer skills

Weekend availability

Education

High school diploma

Tools

POS system

Retail software

Ticketing systems

Job description

The Association of Universities for Research in Astronomy (AURA) invites applications for a Part-Time Gift Shop Customer Service Representative at the Kitt Peak Visitor Center in Arizona. You will welcome visitors, handle tickets, sales, and inventory, delivering outstanding customer experiences in a retail environment.

The role requires weekend and holiday availability, prior POS experience, and a passion for science outreach.