"Temporary Visitor Experience Associate, Morris Arboretum & Gardens"

Temporary Visitor Experience Associate, Morris Arboretum & Gardens

University Overview

The University of Pennsylvania, the largest private employer in Philadelphia, is a world-renowned leader in education, research, and innovation. This historic, Ivy League school consistently ranks among the top 10 universities in the annual U.S. News & World Report survey. Penn has 12 highly-regarded schools that provide opportunities for undergraduate, graduate and continuing education, all influenced by Penn's distinctive interdisciplinary approach to scholarship and learning. As an employer Penn has been ranked nationally on many occasions with the most recent award from Forbes who named Penn one of America's Best Large Employers in 2023.

Penn offers a unique working environment within the city of Philadelphia. The University is situated on a beautiful urban campus, with easy access to a range of educational, cultural, and recreational activities. With its historical significance and landmarks, lively cultural offerings, and wide variety of atmospheres, Philadelphia is the perfect place to call home for work and play.

Posted Job Title

Temporary Visitor Experience Associate, Morris Arboretum & Gardens

Job Profile Title

Temporary Employee - Non-Exempt

Job Description Summary

Visitor Experience Associates are the public-facing ambassadors of the Morris Arboretum, welcoming more than 150,000 visitors annually. This role is essential to creating a positive, memorable experience for guests by providing excellent customer service, handling admissions and retail transactions, answering questions, and assisting visitors throughout their time on the grounds.

Visitor Experience Associates must be professional, friendly, dependable, and comfortable working in a fast-paced environment that includes standing for extended periods, working outdoors in various weather conditions, handling money, and using computer-based systems. Flexibility, teamwork, and a sense of humor are valued attributes for success in this role.

This is a year-round, part-time position offering a flexible schedule and the opportunity to support a world-renowned public garden.

Job Description

Responsibilities

• Represent the Morris Arboretum in a professional, service-oriented manner at all times.
• Greet visitors and serve as an information resource by providing directions, answering questions, and offering assistance.
• Deliver an exceptional visitor experience through active listening, empathy, and problem-solving.
• Process admissions, memberships, and retail sales transactions, including handling cash and credit card payments with accuracy and accountability.
• Operate the gift shop and support membership sales as needed.
• When required, transport visitors on Arboretum grounds and between parking locations; direct visitors within designated parking areas.
• Drive rental clients using golf carts during special events.
• Perform other duties as assigned to support daily operations and visitor needs.

Qualifications

• Friendly, customer-centered demeanor with a commitment to excellent service.
• Previous experience in a customer-facing or service-oriented role preferred.
• Ability to remain calm and professional under pressure.
• Willingness to assist wherever needed and proactively address issues.
• Strong attention to detail and experience handling cash and financial transactions.
• Ability to communicate information clearly and concisely to a diverse audience.
• Comfort using computers, tablets, and point-of-sale systems.
• Ability to walk and stand for extended periods and work outdoors in all weather conditions.
• Valid driver's license required.

Schedule

• Year-round, part-time position (approximately 8-24 hours per week)
• Primary work periods: April-October and December
• Variable schedule including weekends, some weekdays, and holidays

About the Division of Business Services

The Division of Business Services (BSD) supports the individual and collective needs of the Penn community by promoting a hospitable, customer-focused campus environment and delivering mission-critical services and essential operations. BSD's mission is to provide high-quality service in a fiscally responsible manner.

The Division is currently focused on three strategic initiatives:

• Revenue growth and retention through improved marketing, expanded services, and new distribution channels
• Driving productivity through enhanced use of technology
• Enhancing service offerings through facility upgrades and expansions

Learn more: https://business-services.upenn.edu

About the Morris Arboretum & Gardens

The Morris Arboretum & Gardens of the University of Pennsylvania inspires an understanding of the relationship between plants, people, and place through education, research, and horticultural display. Located in the northwest section of Philadelphia, the Arboretum is home to a living collection of more than 13,000 woody plants and serves as a destination for plant lovers from the region and beyond.

As a hub for botany, horticulture, and urban forestry-and host to special programs and educational events-the Morris Arboretum is a unique and valued part of Penn and the greater Philadelphia community.

Learn more: https://www.morrisarboretum.org

Job Location - City, State

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Department / School

Morris Arboretum

Pay Range

$7.25 - $16.33 Hourly Rate

Salary offers are made based on the candidate's qualifications, experience, skills, and education as they directly relate to the requirements of the position, and in alignment with salary ranges based on external market data for the job's level. Internal organization and peer data at Penn are also considered.