Guest Services Associate- CHQ Premium Apparel (The Chautauqua Store)/Seasonal Employment

The Chautauqua Store is located in the Hultquist Center between the Brick Walk Cafe and the Amphitheatre. This is a seasonal business operating between Memorial Day and Labor Day.

About Your Compensation

Compensation for this position starts at $16.00/Hour and, with demonstrated experience and qualifications, candidates may earn up to $17.00/Hour.


About Your Work Day

• Greet patrons, determine their needs, and answer questions about merchandise.
• Describe merchandise and explain use, operation, and care to patrons and/or other associates.
• Recommend and help locate or obtain merchandise.
• Provide general information about the Chautauqua Institution.
• Use a computer to provide information on product availability using our inventory management software and web-based book databases.
• Operate a cash register and / or POS system to compute sale prices, total purchases, process cash or credit payments, and provide customers with proper sales receipts and change.
• Ensure accurate records of sales transactions and/or refunds in accordance with department policies.
• Knowledgeable about department policies regarding payment, exchanges, and security practices.
• Assist in creating a safe, pleasant, and convenient retail environment.
• Sets up displays or arranges merchandise on counters, tables, or racks to promote sales.
• Keep the retail area clean and free of debris by performing light housekeeping duties as assigned.

About the Referral Program

Chautauqua Institution's Referral Bonus Program is a talent solution to recruit, develop, and retain a diverse workforce that encompasses all the skills and experience necessary to deliver on our goals and objectives. Chautauqua Institution will provide a $500 referral bonus (less taxes) for active employees referring a new candidate who is hired and remains employed for at least 90-days from the first physical date of work. In the case of seasonal positions working less than 6-months, the new candidate must remain actively employed for at least 30-days from the first physical date of work and until the closing date of the season. The closing date of the season is the last Sunday in August.

About Your Schedule

Chautauqua Institution and Chautauqua Hotel Company offer flexible schedules, full and part-time, for seasonal employment during summer operations starting annually each June and concluding in August. Seasonal employment may be available earlier (pre-season) and beyond season (post-season) based on business needs and candidate availability. Schedules typically include evenings, weekends, and/or holidays as a requirement.


While you will confirm your final schedule with management at the time of an interview and offer of employment, you should generally anticipate the following schedule options for this position:


Flexible scheduling, work 20 to 40 hours/week within a schedule covering 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. Shifts available range from four to eight hours. One shift per weekend is required. Scheduled hours will include evenings, weekends, and holidays based on business needs.


About Living on the Grounds

No employer-provided housing is available for this position. Applicants should plan to secure independent housing or reside within a commutable distance.


About Chautauqua Institution

Chautauqua Institution is a not-for-profit global convener of dialogue on the most significant issues of the day through engagement across four pillars of the arts, education, religion, and recreation. The Chautauqua community is located on the shores of Chautauqua Lake in southwestern New York State and comes alive each summer with a unique mix of visual and performing arts, lectures, interfaith worship/programs, and recreational activities. Chautauqua Institution owns and operates Chautauqua Hotel Company, a comprehensive hotel, food & beverage, conferencing, and events organization.


Discovering Your Chautauqua Experience

There are countless ways that our talent will engage with our mission, vision, and diverse communities, and you are invited to immerse yourself in our programming as a gateway to this experience. Employees will receive a traditional Chautauqua gate pass, free of cost, which provides access to many of our programs at the Amphitheater.


Our Commitment to IDEA

Chautauqua Institution values Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, and Accessibility (IDEA) as a priority in our strategic plan, 150 Forward. One of our five core values is "The dignity and contributions of all people." We are committed to creating conditions where everyone can engage as complete and valued participants in the Chautauqua experience. The Institution is an equal opportunity employer committed to equitable and inclusive hiring practices. Applicants and employees will not be discriminated against based on any status protected under federal, state, or local law. We especially welcome applications from those who can demonstrate experience, engagement, and professional expertise in IDEA.


Joining Our Talent Community

Join our talent community online at CHQ.org/employment. You are encouraged to learn more about Chautauqua Institution at CHQ.org and view the 150 Forward Strategic Plan at 150fwd.CHQ.org.

Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.