Ushers

Global Arts Live; Cambridge (MA); On-site; USD 25,000 - 30,000; Part time

Benefits offered by this job

Complimentary tickets

Flexible scheduling

Professional development

Artist engagement

Job summary

Global Arts Live in Cambridge, MA, seeks part-time ushers for The Platform to deliver welcoming guest experiences. You will guide patrons, answer inquiries, and support seating, accessibility needs, and merchandise areas during events.

Responsibilities include ticket scanning, program distribution, and assisting with safety protocols under the House Manager's direction. Prior usher or customer service is preferred; multilingual candidates are encouraged.

Qualifications

• Commitment to outstanding patron service with interpersonal skills and an inclusive environment.
• Prior usher or customer service experience is preferred but not required.
• Proficiency in additional languages is a plus; multilingual candidates are encouraged to apply.
• Flexibility to work evenings, weekends and holidays as needed by event schedule.

Responsibilities

• Welcome patrons and assist with directions and inquiries.
• Prepare and distribute event programs and printed materials.
• Scan tickets and coordinate with House Manager on any issues.
• Assist patrons with seating and accessibility needs.
• Manage coat check area and merchandise sales as assigned.
• Support venue safety protocols and emergency response as directed.

Skills

Patron service

Interpersonal skills

Multilingual

Flexibility

Job description

Global Arts Live + The Platform

Cambridge, MA, United States

ORGANIZATIONAL OVERVIEW

For 35 years, Global Arts Live has been a leading force in bringing exceptional global music and dance to stages across Greater Boston. We aspire to transcend borders, cultivate community, and enrich lives through cultural diversity and artistic expression. To date, we have presented more than 800 artists from over 70 countries, performing in over 1,500 events attended by more than 1 million people.

We are in the midst of unprecedented growth as we launch a state-of-the-art performing arts center, called The Platform, in Kendall Square, Cambridge, MA, to open in November 2026. Supported by a $20M campaign, this new venue, which includes a 400-seat theater, 125-seat cabaret space, and rehearsal studio, will further our mission and amplify our impact.

USHER JOB OVERVIEW

Global Arts Live + The Platform are seeking Ushers to serve as the first point of contact for patrons attending events at The Platform. Reporting to the Audience Services Director, House Manager, and Assistant House Manager, Ushers play an essential role in creating a welcoming and positive guest experience. This position is responsible for providing exceptional customer service while supporting performances and events presented by Global Arts Live and venue rental partners at our new performing arts center.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Welcome and assist patrons, provide directions throughout the venue, and act as a primary source of information to address event-related inquiries.
• Prepare and distribute event programs and other printed materials as needed
• Scan tickets for entry and alert the House Manager on duty to any ticketing issues or concerns
• Assist patrons in locating their seats and alert the House Manager on duty to seating issues or concerns
• Assist patrons with accessibility requests and needs
• Staff the coat check area as assigned, ensuring the secure and efficient handling of patrons' belongings
• Staff the venue and/or artist merchandise area as assigned, ensuring efficient and accurate sales transactions
• Support emergency response efforts by guiding patrons and assisting with the implementation of venue safety protocols under the direction of the House Manager on duty.
• Assist as needed with cross-departmental projects including but not limited to special events, donor receptions, and rehearsal studio rentals.
• Responsibilities list is not exhaustive and may include other duties as assigned

QUALIFICATIONS

Not sure you meet 100% of our qualifications? Research shows that cis men apply for jobs when they fulfill an average of 60% of the criteria, while others tend only to apply if they meet every requirement. If you believe that you could excel in this role, we encourage you to apply.

We are dedicated to considering a broad array of candidates, including those with diverse workplace experiences and backgrounds. So, whether you're taking the next step in your career path, looking to transition, or returning to work after a gap in employment, we will be glad to have you on our radar.

• Commitment to providing outstanding patron service, with strong interpersonal skills, professionalism, and the ability to create a welcoming and inclusive environment for diverse audiences
• Prior usher or customer service experience is preferred but not required
• Proficiency in additional languages is a plus; multilingual candidates are encouraged to apply
• Flexibility to work evenings, weekends, and holidays as needed by event schedule

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

This position may require employees to:

• Lift and carry up to 50 pounds
• Stand for extended periods
• Climb stairs
• Work in environments with theatrical lighting effects, including strobe lights
• Safely and efficiently navigate a darkened theater

The physical requirements described above are representative of those necessary to successfully perform the essential functions of this position. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform these essential functions.

HOURS

During the performance season (September–June), this position will be scheduled based on the performance calendar (guaranteed minimum of four hours per shift).

A minimum commitment of 80 hours per year is required.

COMPENSATION

These are part-time hourly positions with a rate of $20/hour

Additional benefits include complimentary ticket opportunities to Global Arts Live performances, flexible scheduling, and opportunities for professional development and engagement with artists and the broader arts community.

Reflecting the artists we present and the audiences we serve, Global Arts Live is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes applications from candidates demonstrating diversity of race, gender, sexual orientation, religion, ethnicity, and national origin. Global Arts Live is committed to creating a work environment that values respect, integrity, diversity, and inclusion.