Discover an exciting opportunity at the VMFA Shop for a dynamic, motivated, and personable Sales Associate. Join our team and bring enthusiasm and energy to enhance the overall shopping experience for our visitors. This part-time, non-exempt role offers a flexible schedule, with a focus on weekend availability and all shifts on Thursday and Friday. Additionally, having evening availability from Wednesday through Friday is highly desirable. With a minimum commitment of 10 hours per week and the opportunity to work up to 1,450 hours annually (May 1-April 30), this position provides a balanced and engaging work experience.

About us:

The VMFA is a state-supported, privately endowed educational institution created for the benefit of the citizens of the Commonwealth of Virginia. Its purpose is to collect, preserve, exhibit, and interpret art, to encourage the study of the arts, and thus to enrich the lives of all. As an extension of the museum, the shop is committed to offering high-end, unique products that complement the museum’s collection; and providing consistent and exceptional service to all of our guests.

Diversity and Inclusivity:

Diversity and inclusivity are at the heart of what we do at Virginia Museum of Fine Arts and we are committed to upholding these values in our retail and foodservice operations. As an extension of the museum’s mission to enrich the lives of all, our Enterprise Operations are passionately dedicated to opening the museum’s doors to people from all backgrounds, including all races, ethnicities, genders, and abilities.

About the role:

A VMFA Shop Sales Associate’s primary role is to provide the highest level of product knowledge and service to guests visiting the museum. Sales Associates report to and partner with management, who will delegate tasks to help accomplish the shop’s goals. Sales Associates should adhere to all VMFA Shop Policies and Procedures and are responsible for maintaining a balanced cash drawer, completing mandatory training, and maintaining a clean, well-presented sales floor. Sales associates will work alongside our staff and volunteers to promote a positive, inclusive, and friendly environment.

Hour Requirements:
The Sales Associate is a part-time, non-exempt position without benefits scheduled to work a minimum of 10 hours a week and up to 1,450 hours annually (May 1-April 30)

Specific hours we are currently looking for are weekend availability, Thursday and Friday all shifts, and evening availability Wednesday – Friday

Departmental Competencies:

Adheres to the Museum’s EDIA policies and demonstrates these on the sales floor and customer interactions
Ability to work a flexible schedule, including days, evenings, weekend, and holidays
Ability to read, write, and comprehend directions and instructions; basic computer skills
Outstanding interpersonal and oral communication skills, and the ability to work confidently and courteously with museum staff and the general public
Ability to maintain a professional demeanor and appearance
Ability to function efficiently, professionally, and graciously in a fast-paced, high-pressure environment providing a high standard of customer service
Ability to work well as part of a team and independently
Ability to stand for long periods of time with scheduled breaks
Willingness to learn about our collections, products, and events
Ability to attend trainings and meetings
Ability to communicate with the public in person

Specific Role Requirements:

Proficient in Counterpoint POS system and able to process transactions with minimal error
Proficient in the Museum’s membership program and able to process both regular and gift memberships through Counterpoint
Ability to effectively multitask on the sales floor
Proficient in all shop policies and procedures
Maintain a clean, well-stocked sales floor
Consistently signs off on announcements using the shop’s online communication board

Minimum Qualifications:

Commits to working a minimum of 10 hours a week and has availability for nights, weekends, and holidays
Demonstrates exceptional customer service skills
Prior experience working in a public-facing role either in a customer service, hospitality, retail, or food service setting
Minimum of 10 hours per a week with availability for nights, weekends, and holidays

Specific training related to the Museum and role-specific requirements will be provided onsite.

Additional Considerations:

Previous retail or museum experience preferred

Agency Employee Benefits:

Agency employees enjoy benefits such as free admission to special exhibitions, previews of special exhibitions, employee pricing for select museum programs and classes, as well as discounts in Amuse Restaurant, Best Café, and VMFA shop.