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ICA Freelance Visitor Services Attendant & Gallery Ambassador

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University Overview

The University of Pennsylvania, the largest private employer in Philadelphia, is a world-renowned leader in education, research, and innovation. This historic, Ivy League school consistently ranks among the top 10 universities in the annual U.S. News & World Report survey. Penn has 12 highly-regarded schools that provide opportunities for undergraduate, graduate and continuing education, all influenced by Penn’s distinctive interdisciplinary approach to scholarship and learning. As an employer Penn has been consistently ranked nationally on many occasions with the most recent award from Forbes who named Penn one of America’s Best Large Employers.

Penn offers a unique working environment within the city of Philadelphia. The University is situated on a beautiful urban campus, with easy access to a range of educational, cultural, and recreational activities. With its historical significance and landmarks, lively cultural offerings, and wide variety of atmospheres, Philadelphia is the perfect place to call home for work and play.

Posted Job Title

ICA Freelance Visitor Services Attendant & Gallery Ambassador

Job Profile Title

Temporary Employee - Non-Exempt

Job Description Summary

Supervisor: Elizabeth Chong
Email: ejchong@ica.upenn.edu
Title: ICA Freelance Visitor Services Attendant & Gallery Ambassador
Positions to be filled: 2
Hours Per Week: 4-20

Position Summary:

The University of Pennsylvania’s Institute of Contemporary Art, Philadelphia (ICA) is seeking freelance seasonal staff for the role of Visitor Services Attendant & Gallery Ambassador, beginning April 2026.

Visitor Services Attendants serve as the first point of contact for visitors and play a critical role in shaping the public’s experience of ICA. In their capacity as Gallery Ambassadors, individuals in this role also lead tours for a range of audiences, including K–12 students, adults, undergraduates, and graduate groups.

Working under the supervision of the Senior Visitor Services Coordinator, this position sets the tone for an exceptional guest experience through informed engagement, thoughtful facilitation, and confident front-of-house presence.

Job Description

Primary Responsibilities

  • Provide a high level of service in greeting, orienting, and assisting ICA visitors

  • Lead guided tours and support interpretive engagement with exhibitions for diverse audiences

  • Answer questions and engage guests in informed, welcoming conversations about ICA and its programs

  • Process book and merchandise purchases

  • Complete book inventory and restock materials as needed

  • Maintain cleanliness, organization, and readiness of public spaces and the bookshop

  • Provide information and assistance related to ICA’s accessibility amenities

  • Assist guests during emergency egress, medical situations, or other unusual circumstances, following established protocols

  • Handle challenging interactions with professionalism, discretion, and sound judgment

  • Actively participate in required trainings and continuously expand knowledge of ICA’s exhibitions, policies, and visitor services practices

  • Support additional visitor services and front-of-house needs as assigned

Skills & Qualifications

  • High school diploma or equivalent education and experience required

  • 1- 2 years of relevant experience in customer or guest services, hospitality, event management, education, or protection services

  • Demonstrated interest in public engagement, education, and working with diverse audiences

  • Strong interpersonal and communication skills with an outgoing, professional demeanor

  • Ability to manage conflict and de-escalate challenging situations effectively

  • Capacity to remain calm and attentive during high-volume, high-stress, or unexpected situations

  • Strong organizational skills and attention to detail

  • Interest in art, museum education, or visitor experience; art background a plus

Job Location - City, State

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Department / School

Provost's Center

Pay Range

$7.25 - $20.00 Hourly Rate

Salary offers are made based on the candidate’s qualifications, experience, skills, and education as they directly relate to the requirements of the position, and in alignment with salary ranges based on external market data for the job’s level. Internal organization and peer data at Penn are also considered.

Equal Opportunity Statement

The University of Pennsylvania is an equal opportunity employer. Candidates are considered for employment without regard to race, color, sex, sexual orientation, religion, creed, national origin (including shared ancestry or ethnic characteristics), citizenship status, age, disability, veteran status or any class protected under applicable federal, state or local law.

Special Requirements
A background check may be required after a conditional job offer is made. Consideration of the background check will be tailored to the requirements of the job.

University Benefits

  • Health and Life: Penn offers comprehensive medical, prescription, behavioral health, dental, vision, and life insurance benefits to protect you and your family’s health and welfare.
  • Retirement: Penn offers generous retirement plans to help you save for your future. Penn’s Basic, Matching, and Supplemental retirement plans allow you to save for retirement on a pre-tax or Roth basis. Choose from a wide variety of investment options through TIAA and Vanguard.

Please note that benefit eligibility is determined/based on ACA guidelines.