Visitor Experience Associate / Retail
Virginia Commonwealth University
Richmond, VA
Full-time
Sales
Posted on April 12, 2024
The Visitor Experience Associate of Retail is a member of the Institute for Contemporary Arts's
retail team, supporting in the daily operations of the ICA Shop + Caf, helping ensure a safe,
high-quality retail experience for visitors. The ICA's retail program is a synthesis of carefully
curated food, beverages, artist books and editions, storytelling, and intimate programming, and
is firmly rooted in our commitment to create sustainable operations that support welcoming,
inclusive, and curious art and artist-focused opportunities. The cafe has zero waste goals, is
committed to working with local food and beverage suppliers, and will encourage visitors to
enjoy a “to stay” dining experience by not offering any “to-go” containers.
This is a part-time, hourly position working 20-29 hours per week.
Job Responsibilities
● Create a welcoming and hospitable environment for visitors, accurately responding
to inquiries in regards to the shop, menu, cafe hours, and basic operational
information
● Provide day-of support for public and private events
● Receive shipments at loading dock and assist with stocking and inventory
● Process ICA Shop + Cafe sales, and log visitor feedback.
● Maintain a deep knowledge of the ICA with a focus on Shop + Caf products and
offerings
● Receive and respond to phone inquiries
● Maintain ServSafe Food Handler Certificate
● Learn menu execution and any updates or menu changes
● Display a working knowledge of all ingredients and preparation used on the menu
● Effectively participate in food prep, ensuring excellence in communication, cooking,
and proper storage and labeling of prepared foods and ingredients
● Ensure that prep station is stocked throughout service and overall station remains
clean and organized
● Barista duties for tea and coffee service
● Effectively participates in a professionally run service period, ensuring excellence in
plate assembly, timing, and communication
● Maintain a calm mental athleticism while managing food and/or beverage tickets
● Working collaboratively and supportively on a small team
● Other duties as assigned
Minimum Qualifications
● Must possess excellent customer service skills and a welcoming demeanor in order to
successfully engage and interact with a diverse audience.
● Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with staff, volunteers, and
members of the public while exercising tact and diplomacy at all times and
demonstrating sensitivity to cultural diversity issues.
● Ability to lift 50 pounds and set up, move, and break down event furniture
● Ability to stand and/or walk for prolonged periods
● Must have a flexible schedule and the ability to work weekends, evenings, and some
holidays.
● Must have strong verbal communication skills
Preferred Qualifications
● Demonstrated experience working in and fostering a diverse faculty, staff, and student
environment or commitment to do so as a staff member at VCU
● Customer service experience including supervisory experience; or an equivalent
combination of education and training
● Experience working public and private events
● Experience working in a hospitality setting
● Experience working with point-of-sale software in a hospitality
Salary Range: $15
Position Details:
Department: Institute for Contemporary Art
Employment Type: H1 - Hourly
FTE: 50%
Exemption Status: Non-Exempt
