Guest Service Associate

GUEST SERVICE ASSOCIATE

Position Overview:

Peace River Botanical & Sculpture Gardens seeks a welcoming, dependable, and guest-focused Guest Services Associate to support daily guest operations and create exceptional visitor experiences within our 27-acre Sanctuary of Art & Nature. This part-time position serves as one of the primary points of contact for guests and supports admissions, memberships, retail sales, exhibitions, programs, and special events while ensuring smooth front-of-house operations and outstanding customer service. The ideal candidate demonstrates professionalism, adaptability, strong communication skills, and a positive attitude within a fast-paced, mission-driven environment. This role works closely with the Experience team and collaborates with volunteers and cross-departmental staff to support daily operations and organizational events. This position requires flexibility, including weekends, holidays, and occasional evenings based on operational and event needs.

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES 1.

Guest Experience & Admissions Welcome guests in a friendly, professional, and engaging manner Process admissions, memberships, retail sales, and POS transactions accurately Provide information regarding exhibitions, programs, memberships, and garden amenities Assist guests with questions, concerns, and wayfinding while delivering exceptional customer service Maintain a clean, organized, and welcoming front-of-house environment 2. Membership, Retail & Event Support Promote Garden memberships and assist with Gift Shop and Plant Sale transactions Monitor and restock informational materials and retail displays Reconcile cash, credit card, and POS transactions accurately Support guest operations during exhibitions, programs, rentals, and special events Assist with event setup, guest flow, and operational readiness during high-attendance activities 3. Administrative & Operational Support Answer incoming phone calls and assist with guest inquiries professionally Monitor assigned communications and maintain working knowledge of organizational procedures Perform light custodial duties including maintaining cleanliness of guest-facing areas and restrooms Complete assigned daily operational tasks efficiently and accurately Communicate operational concerns, inventory needs, and guest feedback to leadership 4. Team Collaboration Work collaboratively with staff and volunteers to support a positive team environment Demonstrate initiative, flexibility, and proactive problem-solving Support a guest-centered culture focused on hospitality, accessibility, and continuous improvement

QUALIFICATIONS & EDUCATION

High School Diploma or GED required Equivalent combinations of education and relevant experience will be considered

EXPERIENCE

Experience in customer service, hospitality, retail, admissions, or guest services preferred Experience using POS systems, cash handling, and membership transactions preferred Experience in nonprofit, cultural, botanical garden, museum, or hospitality settings is a plus

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES

Strong interpersonal and guest service skills Professional, welcoming, and positive demeanor Ability to multitask and adapt within a fast-paced environment Strong communication and organizational abilities Basic math, computer, and cash-handling skills required Working knowledge of Microsoft Office and POS systems, Square preferred Ability to work independently while exercising initiative and sound judgment Collaborative mindset with flexibility and adaptability Familiarity with outdoor environments or cultural attractions preferred

SCHEDULE & WORK ENVIRONMENT

Part-time position Typical schedule includes Sundays and other flexible shifts including weekends, holidays, evenings, and additional hours as operational and event needs require Additional weekday, evening, or event shifts may be required Combination of indoor and outdoor guest service support Ability to stand and walk for extended periods Ability to lift up to 25 pounds Valid driver's license and reliable transportation preferred

COMPENSATION & BENEFITS

This is a part-time position with compensation commensurate with experience and qualifications.

Part-time benefits may include:

Annual membership with reciprocal access to hundreds of gardens and museums nationwide Employee discounts Group discount opportunities for select insurance programs

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER STATEMENT

Peace River Botanical & Sculpture Gardens is an equal opportunity employer and celebrates diversity in its workforce. The Gardens does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, age, national origin, disability, marital status, sexual orientation, or military status in any of its activities or operations.

Job Type:

Part-time Pay:

$15.00 per hour

Shift:

8 hour shift Day shift

Education:

High school or equivalent (Preferred)

Experience:

Retail sales: 3 years (Preferred)

License/Certification:

Driver's License (Preferred)

Work Location:

In person