Job Description

Job Title: Docent

Job Status: Part-time (10 hours weekly)

Under general supervision, the Docent conducts guided tours of the Arab American National Museum (AANM) for groups of students and adults. The Docent brings the voices and faces of Arab Americans to mainstream audiences to continue our commitment to dispelling misconceptions about Arab Americans and other minorities.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Conduct guided tours of the museum for groups of students and adults in person or virtually (as assigned)
• Utilize the techniques of dialogue, inquiry, role play and storytelling while leading tour groups through the museum
• Encourage audience to challenge stereotypes and misconceptions of Arab Americans and minorities
• Attend all briefing meetings before the opening of a new exhibit
• Undergo intensive training with education staff before conducting tours
• Select a different section of the AANM to focus on to learn how to transition between exhibits
• Shadow experienced AANM staff on guided tours to gain knowledge and skills in leading tours
• Read materials as assigned, keep up on current events that impact the minority community
• Attend lunch and learns on Arab American and minority community topics
• Operate standard office equipment and use required software applications
• Perform other duties and responsibilities as assigned

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

Knowledge of:

• Arab American National Museum and the various exhibits
• Fundamental concepts, principles and practices of Arab American, Ethnic and Middle Eastern history and current events

Skill in:

• Operating standard office equipment and using required software applications for program area and other applications, including Microsoft Office

Ability to:

• Provide a high level of customer service
• Work independently as well as collaboratively within a team environment
• Be enthusiastic, cheerful, responsible, engaging, flexible, patient and have a willingness to learn
• Be flexible with scheduling availability, especially during peak hours of the museum
• Convey a welcoming environment and introduce guests to the AANM
• Communicate the mission of the AANM and ACCESS
• Share museum programming with visitors
• Public speaking/storytelling experience is preferred
• Stay current on the program offerings and upcoming museum promotions
• Commit to upholding the principles and ethics of the museum

Educational/Previous Experience Requirements:

• Minimum Degree Required:
  • High school diploma or GED equivalent

• Associate degree preferred

~and~

• At least 1 year of experience or education in history, political science, art, or teaching (preferred)
• Any equivalent combination of experience, education and/or training approved by Human Resources
• Must complete four to five-week intensive training of museum permanent and temporary galleries

Licenses/Certifications:

• Licenses/Certifications Required at Date of Hire: None

Working Conditions:

Hours: Normal business hours, including weekends, some additional hours may be required

Travel Required: None

Working Environment: Climate controlled office