Position Overview

The Newport Historical Society is seeking engaging, reliable, and service-oriented individuals to join our Visitor Services team. This role serves as the front line of the visitor experience across multiple NHS properties, helping guests connect with Newport’s stories in meaningful and memorable ways.

Visitor Services Associates may be scheduled at a variety of sites, including the historic Colony House, the NHS Resource Center’s rotating exhibition front desk, the new Museum of Newport History upon reopening, and may also be expected to support both internal programs and external events as needed.

This is an ideal position for someone who enjoys working with the public, thrives in dynamic cultural environments, and takes pride in representing an organization dedicated to preserving and sharing Newport’s history.

Schedule

• Flexible part-time hours available (1–3 days per week)
• Shifts generally fall between 9:30 AM and 5:00 PM, depending on site
• Some weekends and holidays required
• All positions are in-person/on-site in Newport, RI

Key Responsibilities

Visitor Services Associates support daily operations and ensure a welcoming, organized, and professional environment for all guests. Responsibilities may include:

• Serving as the first point of contact for visitors, providing a warm and informed welcome
• Answering questions about exhibitions, historic sites, tours, programs, and local attractions
• Processing transactions for retail merchandise, tour tickets, admissions, and other sales using point-of-sale and ticketing systems
• Answering and directing phone calls in a professional and timely manner
• Assisting visitors with digital ticketing platforms and self-guided tour technology
• Monitoring galleries, exhibition spaces, and historic interiors to ensure visitor safety and site security
• Opening and/or closing sites in accordance with established procedures
• Restocking merchandise and maintaining organized, visually appealing front desk and retail areas
• Troubleshooting basic operational or technology-related issues
• Supporting general administrative or operational tasks as assigned

Associates may rotate between sites depending on scheduling and organizational needs.

Qualifications

• Strong interpersonal and communication skills with a hospitality-driven mindset
• Comfortable handling financial transactions and working with point-of-sale systems
• Tech-savvy and able to assist visitors with digital platforms
• Ability to work independently and make sound decisions in real time
• Reliable, punctual, and detail-oriented
• Interest in history, museums, or cultural institutions preferred
• Ability to stand for extended periods, navigate stairs where applicable, and lift up to 20 pounds
• Professional appearance and adherence to Newport Historical Society policies

What You Bring to the Role

You understand that visitor services is more than staffing a desk; it’s shaping someone’s first impression, answering the unexpected question, solving small problems before they become big ones, and helping every guest feel welcome in historic spaces.

How to Apply

Please send a cover letter and resume to:

Matt Lanni
Manager of Visitor Experience
mlanni@newporthistory.org

Newport Historical Society is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, age, genetic information, or pregnancy, or any other characteristic protected by law. Our policy of equal employment opportunity applies to all aspects of employment, including recruitment, hiring, promotions, transfers, discipline, terminations, wage and salary administration, benefits, and training. We are committed to fostering a fair and merit-based workplace where every employee feels valued and respected.

Pay: From $17.00 per hour

Benefits:

• Employee discount

Application Question(s):

• Are you available to work on weekends?

Education:

• High school or equivalent (Required)

Work Location: In person