Patron Services Associate

Ford’s Theatre Society is currently seeking applications for the part-time position of Patron Services Associate. This role is integral to ensuring that the campus of Ford’s Theatre is accessible and welcoming for patrons. Ideal candidates will be detail-oriented, well-spoken, energetic, approachable and dedicated to providing the highest level of customer service, safety and engagement for those visiting the historic site and museum or attending a mainstage performance or public program.

As a location steeped in culture, history and the performing arts, Ford’s Theatre welcomes a high volume of patrons each year for historical visits and live performances. The site is open nearly every day of the year, except Thanksgiving and Christmas, from 8:30 a.m. to 6 p.m., and it remains open until 10 p.m.—occasionally later—for evening shows and events. This role is an essential public-facing, front-line position that executes both visitor services and front-of-house theatre responsibilities.

Key Responsibilities

Customer Service and Engagement

• Engage proactively with guests, greeting them and offering accurate instructions, directions, recommendations and historical context to enhance their visit to the Ford’s Theatre campus and Washington, D.C.
• Create a warm and welcoming environment for all patrons to have a positive and enriching experience.
• Address and resolve patron concerns or complaints professionally and efficiently, escalating complex issues to the Patron Services Managers when necessary.
• Actively support accessibility programs and initiatives by assisting patrons who require accommodations and ensuring those needs are met.
• Ensure that safety and security standards and protocols are followed by all visitors to the campus, enforcing venue policies and taking appropriate action when needed.

Daily Visitation and Museum Operations

• Work closely and effectively with National Park Service rangers, park guides and volunteers to ensure a smooth, welcoming, pleasing and informative experience for all historic site visitors.
• Complete opening and closing procedures, as scheduled, to prepare Ford’s Theatre for visitation, performances and programs and to secure the campus at the end of each day.
• Operate ticket scanners and manage entry for timed museum experiences; monitor visitor flow and ensure public spaces remain orderly, safe and accessible.
• Conduct regular checks of exhibit areas to maintain cleanliness and functionality.
• Engage patrons in conversation regarding the history of Ford’s Theatre, the life and legacy of Abraham Lincoln and aspects of the Civil War in a manner that supports the interpretive plan for Ford’s Theatre.

Theatre Operations and House Management

• Ensure that theatre spaces are prepared for each event, including cleanliness and tidiness of lobby areas, restrooms, entrances/exits and theatre seating areas.
• Work closely with other departments and volunteer ushers to ensure efficient audience flow, accurate patron seating, distribution of accessibility devices and attention to patron needs before, during and after performances.
• Under the direction of the House Manager, enforce theatre policies regarding late seating, health and safety compliance, noise disturbance and the use of electronic devices for photography or audio/video recording.
• Know and understand the emergency action plan for Ford’s Theatre and respond calmly and precisely to execute appropriate procedures in the event of an emergency.
• All members of the Patron Services team are required to see the final dress rehearsal of each production.

Special Requirements

• Must be available to work evenings, weekends and holidays.
• Possess stamina to stand for long periods of time and be able to move or lift up to 25 pounds, with assistance.
• Complete ongoing training benchmarks for front-line staff.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• Strong interpersonal and communication skills with a customer-focused mindset
• Positive, collaborative and resourceful attitude but flexible, with effective decision-making and problem-solving skills
• Ability to remain calm and professional in a high-volume environment and to adapt to changing conditions and requirements
• Knowledge of, or genuine interest in learning about the history of Ford’s Theatre and events of the assassination of Abraham Lincoln
• Familiarity with—or ability to learn—Microsoft Office programs, particularly Word, Excel and Outlook

Salary

This is a part-time, non-exempt position with an hourly rate of $20.00.

To Apply

Please complete an Employment Application for Part-Time Employees. We are looking to hire multiple candidates and applications will be reviewed until all available positions have been filled.

Ford’s Theatre Society values and is committed to maintaining a diverse, inclusive and equitable workforce and working environment. Ford’s is proud to be an equal opportunity employer where all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, ethnicity, religion, national origin, sex, gender identity or expression, family status, sexual orientation, disability, age, neurodiversity, veteran status or any other characteristic protected by law.