Sculpture Garden Attendant (Part-Time)

NEW ORLEANS MUSEUM OF ART; New Orleans (LA); On-site; USD 17,000 - 25,000; Part time

Job summary

The New Orleans Museum of Art (NOMA) is seeking a part-time Sculpture Garden Attendant to monitor the Sydney and Walda Besthoff Sculpture Garden, engage visitors, and support daily operations. The role requires weekend and holiday availability, a high school diploma, and strong interpersonal skills to explain exhibitions and safety procedures.

First Aid/CPR is preferred; training will be provided. You will help maintain a welcoming environment, assist with tours and light maintenance, and

Qualifications

• Experience in customer service and an interest in the visual arts.

Responsibilities

• Monitor assigned posts to ensure visitor and artwork safety.
• Provide information and directions to visitors and promote a welcoming experience.

Skills

Customer service

Interpersonal communication

Arts interest

Education

High school diploma or GED

Job description

NEW ORLEANS MUSEUM OF ART is an EEO Employer - M/F/Protected Veteran Status

Why NOMA

The New Orleans Museum of Art (NOMA) is one of the city’s most significant cultural institutions and home to the Sydney and Walda Besthoff Sculpture Garden, one of the most important sculpture gardens in the United States. Working at NOMA offers the opportunity to engage with art, nature, and the community while contributing to a welcoming environment for visitors from around the world. Our team is dedicated to preserving and protecting art while creating meaningful and memorable experiences for everyone who visits.

Job Summary

The Sculpture Garden Attendant (SGA) – Part-Time is an outdoor, guest-facing role responsible for monitoring the sculpture collection, engaging with the public, and supporting the daily operations of the Sydney and Walda Besthoff Sculpture Garden. SGAs play a vital role in maintaining a welcoming and secure environment by protecting artworks, assisting visitors, and providing information about NOMA and its programs.

This position requires availability on weekends, holidays, and occasional special events, as assigned by the Sculpture Garden Manager. SGAs may also participate in informal programming and assist with special projects, including visitor education and light maintenance tasks.

Essential Job Functions

• Maintain assigned posts to observe and engage with visitors, ensuring the safety of individuals and artwork.
• Monitor and report irregularities such as fire hazards, leaking pipes, unsecured doors or windows, and other safety concerns.
• Serve as a visitor advocate while promoting safety; provide positive experience and assist with educational materials and use museum spaces.
• Conduct scripted tours related to the garden’s history, flora, sculpture collection, and topics such as ecology, architecture, and water management.
• Provide accurate information to visitors about museum exhibitions, public programs, directions, and events in a friendly and welcoming manner.
• Perform routine garden checks and opening/closing procedures, including locking/unlocking gates and inspecting areas for cleanliness and safety.
• Assist with routine or seasonal maintenance projects, such as gate upkeep, placard cleaning, raking, blowing entry areas, and graffiti removal and documentation.
• Enforce NOMA policies respectfully and consistently.
• Participate in daily briefings and attend training sessions related to exhibitions, events, and safety.
• Maintain a high level of professionalism in both behavior and appearance.
• Perform additional duties as assigned by the department manager.

Minimum Qualifications

• Experience in customer service and an interest in the visual arts and museum work.
• High school diploma or GED required; additional education or experience in safety/security roles preferred.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to engage respectfully with visitors of all ages, abilities, and diverse backgrounds.
• Ability to remain calm and professional while assertively enforcing museum policies and protecting artwork and garden areas.
• First Aid and CPR certification preferred; training will be provided if needed.

Equal Opportunity Employer

The New Orleans Museum of Art is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace. NOMA does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected status under applicable law.