Visitor Experience Specialist — Front Desk & Programs

Smithsonian Institution; Washington (District of Columbia); On-site; USD 37,000 - 48,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health Insurance

Dental Insurance

Vision Insurance

Transit Benefits

Life Insurance

Annual Leave

Job summary

Smithsonian Institution in Washington, DC invites qualified applicants for the role of Visitor Experience Associate (IS-1001-03). This full-time position supports the National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute by assisting with admissions, answering inquiries, and delivering engaging guest experiences in a welcoming environment.

The role emphasizes professional customer service, accurate ticketing, and safety awareness, with opportunities to support events, educational programs, and daily

Qualifications

• Basic knowledge of visitor services and customer engagement.
• Able to communicate clearly with diverse audiences.
• Understand safety and emergency procedures.
• Familiar with zoo layout and programs.
• Experience handling cash and memberships is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Greetes and assists visitors with information on exhibits, programs, and amenities.
• Responds to visitor inquiries, wayfinding requests, and concerns.
• Operates POS systems for ticket sales and rentals.
• Verifies tickets and supports efficient visitor entry.
• Processes cash and electronic transactions.
• Supports educational activities and guest experiences.
• Addresses visitor concerns and assists with conflict resolution.
• Monitors safety and conduct standards in public areas.
• Collaborates with staff across departments for events and services.
• Collects visitor feedback and communicates observations to supervisors.

Skills

Customer service

Public engagement

Communication

POS systems

Cash handling

Safety awareness

Teamwork

Tools

POS systems

Job description

Smithsonian Institution in Washington, DC invites qualified applicants for the role of Visitor Experience Associate (IS-1001-03). This full-time position supports the National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute by assisting with admissions, answering inquiries, and delivering engaging guest experiences in a welcoming environment.

The role emphasizes professional customer service, accurate ticketing, and safety awareness, with opportunities to support events, educational programs, and daily