Part-Time Visitor Service Associate

The Museum of Chinese in America (MOCA) is a nonprofit institution that engages audiences in an ongoing dialogue, in which people of all backgrounds are able to see American history and society through a critical lens, to reflect on their own experiences, and to make meaningful connections between the past and the present, the global and the local, themselves and others. MOCA celebrates the living history of the Chinese experience in America by preserving and presenting the two century-long history, heritage, culture, and diverse experiences of American communities of Chinese descent. As one of "America's Cultural Treasures," MOCA is devoted to educating the public on this important history and to inspiring meaningful intercultural dialogues through exhibitions, education, and public programs. Since its founding in 1980, MOCA has evolved from a Chinatown history project in New York City into an ambitious reflection of the whole of Chinese American history, becoming the country’s leading museum of Chinese American history and a global destination.

Visitor Service Associate Role

Reporting to the Venue Manager, the Visitor Services Associate (VSA) provides a warm, welcoming experience for MOCA’s diverse audiences. As the first point of contact, the VSA serves as an ambassador for the Museum—friendly, knowledgeable, helpful, and engaging.

Status: Part-time, hourly, non-exempt

Schedule: Typically 8–16 hours (1–2 days) per week; weekend availability required; some evenings and holidays as needed

Pay Rate: $20/hour

Responsibilities

• Assist with daily admissions desk operations: process ticket sales, memberships, and handle visitor inquiries; proactively engage visitors in meaningful conversations.


• Ensure adherence to admission procedures and that all outgoing information is current and accurate.


• Maintain a strong working knowledge of MOCA exhibitions, programs, and services; serve as an information resource for visitors.


• Advocate for visitors while upholding MOCA policies to ensure a positive museum experience for audiences with diverse interests and abilities.


• Partner with Education and Public Programs to staff the front desk and support programs and events, including weekends, evenings, and select holidays.


• Maintain accurate cash-handling procedures, including the cash drawer and donation box, during each shift.


• Assist with daily opening and closing procedures.


• Provide front-door assistance during busy hours or events.


• Perform other duties within the Operations and Public Programs departments as needed.

Requirements/Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent preferred.


• Proficiency with Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint; database or CRM experience a plus.


• Strong verbal and written communication skills; confident, articulate, and a motivated self-starter.


• Fluency in English required; proficiency in Mandarin and/or Cantonese a plus.


• Genuine interest in working with the public; ability to interact pleasantly and professionally with local and international visitors, members, patrons, and staff.


• Experience with visitor services principles and practices; familiarity with arts/culture audiences a plus.


• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment, manage multiple priorities, meet deadlines, and adapt to shifting needs.


• Consistent, courteous enforcement of museum policies while delivering excellent customer service.


• Basic troubleshooting of customer service and simple technology issues; sound judgment on when to escalate to management.


• Able to work collaboratively on a team and independently as needed.


• Weekend availability required; some holiday and after-hours event availability necessary.

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled. Candidates selected to advance will be contacted directly for interviews.

The Museum of Chinese in America (MOCA) is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, age, sex, pregnancy (including childbirth or related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, genetic information, military or veteran status, citizenship, or any other xacharacteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.

We recognize that it’s unlikely any candidate meets 100% of the qualifications. If much of this description resonates with you, we encourage you to apply.