Guest Service & Events - Interdepartmental Associate

phippsconservatory; Pittsburgh (Allegheny County); On-site; USD 16,531 - 22,041; Part time

Job summary

Phipps Conservatory is seeking an Interdepartmental Associate (Part-Time) to greet customers, assist with admissions and purchases, and provide guest service across the gift shop and admissions areas.

You will support departments with special projects, seasonal vacancies, and temporary needs while representing the Conservatory in a friendly, professional manner. Weekend and evening availability is required.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• 1–2 years’ relevant retail experience preferred.
• Exceptional guest service skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communications.
• Ability to obtain RAMP certification and Food Safety Handler certification within 30 days (Phipps covers the cost).
• Must be available to work weekends and evenings.

Responsibilities

• Greet customers and assist with admissions and purchases; maintain a positive, courteous tone.
• Operate the cash register and POS to process admissions and sales.
• Assist with special projects and seasonal needs across departments (Gift Shop, Guest Service, Events).
• Support patrons with gift-buying needs and direct guests to information or shows.
• Open/close duties when directed and balance the register when required.
• Keep admissions and gift shop areas clean and report restroom needs to housekeeping.
• Answer phones and provide directions about events.

Skills

Guest service

Written & verbal communication

Computer proficiency

Plant knowledge

Fast-paced environment

Enthusiastic about mission

RAMP & Food Safety Handler certs

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Tools

Cash register / POS

Job description

TITLE

Interdepartmental Associate (Part-Time)

DEPARTMENT

Guest Service (will have occasion to support multiple departments)

REPORTS TO

Gift Shop Manager or Guest Service Manager

GENERAL SUMMARY

Under the direction of the Gift Shop Manager or the Guest Service Manager, the Interdepartmental Associate will be responsible for greeting customers and assisting with their admission and purchasing needs, while providing an excellent level of guest service in the gift shop and admissions area. In addition, this position will be responsible for providing support to departments with special projects, temporary vacancies, and seasonal assignments. Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens is an equal opportunity employer that is committed to attracting and retaining a diverse staff. We strive to create a working environment that is inclusive, equitable and welcoming as we honor employee experiences, perspectives, and unique identities.

PRINCIPAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

1. Assist departments throughout Phipps, including Guest Services and Events, with special projects and seasonal needs. Will have the occasion to be scheduled in any department, rotating to fill needs where present.
2. Greet the public from inside the Conservatory, distribute information, answer questions and direct guests where necessary. Present the Conservatory in a positive, friendly and courteous tone to all guests.
3. Operate the cash register and computer to process admissions and sales.
4. Work proactively in assisting patrons with their gift‑buying needs.
5. In the absence of the Gift Shop/Guest Service Manager or Gift Shop/Guest Service Coordinators, open and close the register, count money and balance the drawer.
6. Work with other Conservatory personnel to continually update the public on Conservatory happenings.
7. Answer phones, providing directions and information concerning shows, events, etc.
8. Handle all visitor complaints, accidents and problems.
9. Assist with the training of new part-time Guest Service Associates.
10. Model professional communication with both coworkers and guests at all times.
11. Maintain cleanliness of admissions and gift shop areas. Check on restrooms and notify housekeeping when these are in need of attention.
12. Sell memberships upon request and prepare paperwork for the Membership department.
13. Perform computer data entry.
14. Support Café operations as needed.
15. Track questions asked by patrons and keep information available for future reference.
16. Perform other activities and duties as required.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES REQUIRED

1. Must have exceptional guest service skills.
2. Must have excellent written and verbal communications skills.
3. Computer proficiency required.
4. Knowledge of plants preferred.
5. Ability to work in a fast‑paced environment.
6. Ability to communicate enthusiastic support of Phipps' mission.
7. Ability to obtain RAMP certification and Food Safety Handler certification within 30 days (Phipps covers the cost).

PHYSICAL, MENTAL AND SENSORY DIMENSIONS

1. Physical mobility: sitting, standing, walking, lifting/carrying objects up to 30 pounds; manual dexterity to operate keyboard.
2. Mental effort: reading, writing, analyzing, and visualizing.
3. Sensory requirement: Ability to communicate and respond both in person and over the phone to the general public, staff and volunteers in a friendly manner.

WORKING CONDITIONS

1. Must be available to work weekends and evenings.
2. Will have occasion to work in or pass through any area of the Conservatory or growing houses.

MINIMUM POSITION GUIDELINES (Education, Experience and Certification)

1. High school diploma or equivalency required.
2. Minimum of 1-2 years' relevant experience in the field of retail preferred.