Dynamic Art Tour Guide (Part-Time)

Penn State University; State College (Centre County); On-site; USD 17,000 - 24,000; Part time

Job summary

The Palmer Museum of Art at Penn State is seeking part-time student-facing guides to welcome visitors and introduce works from the permanent collection and special exhibitions. You will lead discussion-based tours and create an inclusive, engaging learning environment.

Training will cover museum collections, art interpretation, and facilitating dialogue. Scheduling is flexible, with core shifts on Wednesdays to Fridays and occasional weekends; positions offer 15–20 hours per week depending on

Qualifications

• Must be 18 or older.
• High School diploma or equivalent, plus post-secondary coursework; BA degree preferred.
• Experience working with the public, especially in customer service or education.
• Personable, outgoing; Enjoy meeting and interacting with others, and able to speak in front of groups.
• Flexible and adaptable, with excellent listening skills and the ability to demonstrate empathy and understanding.
• A commitment to accessibility, equity, and anti‑oppression and alignment with the museum’s mission, vision, and goals.
• Capable of learning new material rapidly, thinking critically, and facilitating discussions that may include difficult or controversial content.
• Able to work independently and able to accept supervision.
• The ability to lead groups through a multi‑level, 73,000 square foot museum; walking, using stairs, standing, and/or using a mobility device for 60‑90 minutes at a time.
• Some tours may include the outdoor sculpture path and/or digital exploration gallery.
• Tours are primarily conducted in English.
• Those fluent in more than one language, including ASL, are encouraged to apply.
• Prior knowledge of the Palmer Museum of Art is not required, but successful candidates will have an interest in art and relevant coursework and/or experience in art, art education, art history, education, museum studies or similar.

Responsibilities

• Conducting discussion-based tours of approximately 60–90 minutes in length.
• Providing a welcoming, inclusive environment and a rewarding learning experience to museum visitors through guided tours.
• Conducting occasional tours of the museum and facilities (behind the scenes) for VIPs, special visiting groups, etc.
• Greeting and welcoming groups upon their arrival.
• Dealing skillfully with a variety of visitors under a variety of circumstances.
• Speaking comfortably to small and large groups of people of all ages and backgrounds, including varying levels of interest and knowledge of art and art history.
• Continuously keeping informed about changes in museum exhibitions and tour programs.
• Assisting at the welcome desk by providing information and wayfinding to museum visitors and supporting Visitor Services staff in capturing patron demographics.
• Assisting, on occasion, with special event programs that take place during or outside of museum public hours.

Skills

Public speaking

Customer service

Interpersonal skills

Art appreciation

Education

High School diploma

BA degree preferred

Job description

The Palmer Museum of Art at Penn State is seeking part-time student-facing guides to welcome visitors and introduce works from the permanent collection and special exhibitions. You will lead discussion-based tours and create an inclusive, engaging learning environment.

Training will cover museum collections, art interpretation, and facilitating dialogue. Scheduling is flexible, with core shifts on Wednesdays to Fridays and occasional weekends; positions offer 15–20 hours per week depending on