Multiple Positions (3) - Detroit Historical Society

Posted on 8/27/26

Job Title: Visitor Experience Associate (VEA) - Part Time

Department: Retail & Visitor Services

Reports to: Director of Retail & Visitor Services

Hourly Wage: $15.00 per hour

History saved and preserved is the foundation for strong, vibrant communities and future generations. The Detroit Historical Society’s mission is to tell Detroit’s stories and why they matter. Founded in 1921, the Society has been bringing together diverse voices and communities around the stories of the region to find their place in the present and inspire the future for over one hundred years. Located in Detroit’s cultural district, the Society administers and develops exhibitions and programming for the Detroit Historical Museum, the Dossin Great Lakes Museum on Belle Isle, and our Collection Resource Center at Historic Fort Wayne. The team cares for over 250,000 artifacts in its collection and relies on a staff of over sixty individuals to help continue to bring Detroit’s vibrant stories to life.

Position Description

At the Detroit Historical Society, our Visitor Experience & Retail team assists with creating wonderful guest experiences and memories at our museums. The Visitor Experience Associate position provides a unique opportunity to engage with customers at the Detroit Historical Museum and the Dossin Great Lakes Museum, which showcase our expertly curated and locally themed gift shops. In this role you will demonstrate your exceptional hospitality skills, engage with our community, and learn the key principles of retail operations. The Visitor Experience Associate (VEA) supports the Detroit Historical Society’s mission, strategy, and DEAI goals by providing exceptional hospitality and visitor experiences to all individuals and groups visiting the museum. The VEA sells admissions, memberships and Museum Store merchandise, answers questions, and provides visitors with access to amenities.

Major Responsibilities

• Provide a warm and welcoming greeting, be friendly and approachable, and resolve conflict in a professional and courteous manner.
• Facilitate the daily sale of museum admission tickets, event and program tickets, and memberships.
• Ensure accurate processing of financial transactions, balancing of cash drawers, and preparation of deposits.
• Operate point–of-sale system with accuracy to ensure proper protocols, including correct software usage, accurate data capture, and consistent messaging/communication is made with guests.
• Sell and restock museum store merchandise, organize and rearrange store displays, replenish general store supplies as needed, and maintain cleanliness within the store.
• Assist with inventory intake, routine inventory and price checks, and packaging/shipping of online orders.
• Deliver inventory to different locations including Somerset Mall (Troy, MI) and local deliveries within Detroit.
• Stay up-to-date on product features, recommend appropriate products to customers, and maintain knowledge of how they relate to the collection and exhibitions of the Detroit Historical Museum/Dossin Great Lakes Museum.
• Deliver excellent customer service that helps to develop and cultivate strong buying relationships to achieve service and sales goals.
• Introduce promotions and opportunities to customers.
• Effectively and accurately provide information to guests regarding museum policies, exhibits, collections, special events and programs.
• Develop in-depth knowledge of museum operations, as well as its history, exhibitions, and membership program.

General Responsibilities

• Promote and process memberships and assist with membership mailings and database entry.
• Maintain work areas—front desk, gift store, employee break room and volunteer spaces.
• Monitor museum security cameras and perform routine walkthroughs of gallery spaces.
• Assist with exhibit opening and closing procedures.
• Attend meetings as required.
• Perform other duties as assigned, directed, or as required to facilitate Society business.

Required Qualifications for Successful Position Performance

• Basic knowledge of customer service best practices and possess excellent communication skills.
• Experience in cash handling and utilizing computerized point-of-sale systems with a high level of accuracy.
• Customer-focused and detail oriented with an ability to multi-task.
• Effectively communicate both verbally and in writing with customers and at all organizational levels, professionally and with emotional intelligence.
• Enjoys working with the public and is comfortable working with diverse populations, including and integrating all people and groups; respecting people from all backgrounds and cultures; understanding, accepting, and valuing differences between people.
• Willingness to work flexible schedules, including weekends and holidays.
• Ability to lift-up to 40 pounds with or without a reasonable accommodation.
• Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation for deliveries.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with marketing and/or inventory management.
• Familiarity with Downtown and Midtown Detroit.
• First Aid/AED/CPR certification is a plus (can be obtained after hiring).
• Bi-lingual a plus.

Education and Experience

• High school diploma or G.E.D credential required.
• College or advanced education in hospitality is preferred.
• Minimum 1-year of retail experience or equivalent education & experience.

Compensation & Benefits

• Hourly Wage is up to $15.00 per hour.
• Paid Parental Leave after 12 months of qualifying service in coordination with FMLA.

Candidates must have reliable transportation, be willing to undergo a criminal background check, and provide references (as needed/requested). Please note the hourly wage prior to sending a résumé and cover letter to the Human Resources Department at humanresource@detroithistorical.org. No phone calls, please.

EEO Statement

Detroit Historical Society is committed to the principles of equal employment. We respect diversity and accordingly are an equal opportunity employer that does not discriminate on the basis of actual or perceived race, color, creed, religion, national origin, ancestry, citizenship status, age, sex or gender (including pregnancy, childbirth, related medical conditions and lactation), gender identity or gender expression (including transgender status), sexual orientation , marital status, military service and veteran status, disability, genetic information, height, weight, or any other status protected by federal, state, or local laws and ordinances. The Organization is dedicated to the fulfillment of this policy in regard to all aspects of employment, including, but not limited to, recruiting, hiring, placement, transfer, training, promotion, rates of pay, and other compensation, termination, and all other terms, conditions, and privileges of employment.

Job Title: Visitor Experience Supervisor, Part Time

Department: Retail & Visitor Services

Reports to: Director of Retail & Visitor Services

Hourly Wage: $18.00 per hour

History saved and preserved is the foundation for strong, vibrant communities and future generations. The Detroit Historical Society’s mission is to tell Detroit’s stories and why they matter. Founded in 1921, the Society has been bringing together diverse voices and communities around the stories of the region to find their place in the present and inspire the future for over one hundred years. Located in Detroit’s cultural district, the Society administers and develops exhibitions and programming for the Detroit Historical Museum, the Dossin Great Lakes Museum on Belle Isle, and our Collection Resource Center at Historic Fort Wayne. The team cares for over 250,000 artifacts in its collection and relies on a staff of over sixty individuals to help continue to bring Detroit’s vibrant stories to life.

Position Description

At the Detroit Historical Society, our Visitor Experience & Retail team assists with creating wonderful guest experiences and memories at our museums. The Visitor Experience Supervisor position provides a unique opportunity to engage with customers at the Detroit Historical Museum and the Dossin Great Lakes Museum, which showcase our expertly curated and locally themed gift shops. In this role you will demonstrate your exceptional leadership and hospitality skills, engage with our community, and learn the key principles of retail operations.

The Visitor Experience Supervisor oversees daily operations and coordinates the efforts of the Visitor Experience Associates at both the Detroit Historical Museum and Dossin Great Lakes Museum including their respective front desks and retail stores.

Preferred candidates should have an interest in Detroit history and have availability to work a combination of weekdays, weekends, occasional evenings and potentially on holidays the museum is open. This is an hourly position. Compensation is $18.00 per hour.

Major Responsibilities

• Coordinate the overall functions of the front desk, gift shops and the efforts of the Visitor Experience Associates (VEAs) as they greet and welcome museum visitors.
• Assist with training VEAs for daily responsibilities and delegate duties to team members to maintain daily operations and organization of the front desks and gift stores.
• Accurately perform opening and closing procedures for the front desks, museum gift shop, and museum exhibits at the start and end of each shift.
• Ensure accurate processing of financial transactions, balancing of cash drawers, and preparation of deposits.
• Assist with inventory intake and processing, perform routine inventory and price checks, and package/ship online orders.
• Assist with occasional off-site sales events and pop-up functions.
• Coordinate breaks for VEAs and fulfill the role of VEA when completing tasks.
• Ensure exhibits are functioning properly and alert any issues immediately to the Exhibitions Team.
• Report and document all operational issues as they arise, as well as any incidents that occur on museum grounds.
• Participate in meetings with team members as required to ensure effective communication between frontline staff and management.
• Be prepared to conduct duties of the VEA in the event of a scheduling conflict or when providing breaks (i.e. have the ability to process memberships, group tours payments; complete transactions and other duties in the museum stores; answer telephones, assist with paperwork, mailings and database entry).

General Responsibilities

• Direct inquiries from guests and customers to respective departments within the organization.
• Troubleshoot technological issues with point-of-sale and admissions programs/software when they arise.
• Maintain the family-friendly environment of the museums and ensure public spaces are welcoming and tidy.
• Monitor security cameras and perform frequent walkthroughs of gallery spaces.

Required Qualifications for Successful Position Performance

• Minimum one-year supervisory experience required.
• Retail and/or customer service experience with cash handling.
• Ability to lift up to 40 lbs. with or without a reasonable accommodation.
• Outgoing personality with the ability to find positive solutions in all situations .
• Data entry and computer skills; the ability to use Microsoft Outlook.
• Certified in Blackbaud Altru Fundamentals or willing to be certified within 90 days of hire date.
• Scheduling availability and flexibility to include weekdays, weekends, weeknights, and holidays in which the museums are open.
• Friendly, reliable, and personable.

Preferred Qualifications

• First Aid/AED/CPR certification is a plus (can be obtained after hiring).
• Experience with Shopify a plus.

Education and Experience

• High School Diploma or G.E.D. credential required.
• College or advanced education in hospitality is preferred.

Compensation & Benefits

• Paid Parental Leave after 12 months of qualifying service in coordination with FMLA.

Please note the hourly wage prior to sending a résumé and cover letter to the Human Resources Department at humanresource@detroithistorical.org. No phone calls, please.

Candidates must have reliable transportation, be willing to undergo a criminal background check, and provide references (as needed/requested). Please note the hourly wage prior to sending a résumé and cover letter to the Human Resources Department at humanresource@detroithistorical.org. No phone calls, please.

EEO Statement

Detroit Historical Society is committed to the principles of equal employment. We respect diversity and accordingly are an equal opportunity employer that does not discriminate on the basis of actual or perceived race, color, creed, religion, national origin, ancestry, citizenship status, age, sex or gender (including pregnancy, childbirth, related medical conditions and lactation), gender identity or gender expression (including transgender status), sexual orientation , marital status, military service and veteran status, disability, genetic information, height, weight, or any other status protected by federal, state, or local laws and ordinances. The Organization is dedicated to the fulfillment of this policy in regard to all aspects of employment, including, but not limited to, recruiting, hiring, placement, transfer, training, promotion, rates of pay, and other compensation, termination, and all other terms, conditions, and privileges of employment.

Job Title: Event Operations Specialist – Part Time

Department: Retail & Visitor Services

Reports to: Director of Retail & Visitor Services

Hourly Rate: $15.00 per hour

History saved and preserved is the foundation for strong, vibrant communities and future generations. The Detroit Historical Society’s mission is to tell Detroit’s stories and why they matter. Founded in 1921, the Society has been bringing together diverse voices and communities around the stories of the region to find their place in the present and inspire the future for over one hundred years. Located in Detroit’s cultural district, the Society administers and develops exhibitions and programming for the Detroit Historical Museum, the Dossin Great Lakes Museum on Belle Isle, and our Collection Resource Center at Historic Fort Wayne. The team cares for over 250,000 artifacts in its collection and relies on a staff of over sixty individuals to help continue to bring Detroit’s vibrant stories to life.

Position Description

The Event Operations Specialist is a part-time position responsible for assisting in the setup, execution, and breakdown of events for the Detroit Historical Society. Working under the direct supervision of the Public Programs Manager and potential day-to-day operational direction of the Event Operations Supervisor or designated leadership for the assigned event such as the Facility Rentals Manager or the Fundraising Events Manager. The Event Operations Specialist will assist in the successful setup, execution, and breakdown of museum programs, rentals, and special events.

This role also includes assisting with A/V equipment, maintaining the cleanliness of the venue, and providing exceptional customer service to ensure a positive guest experience. The ideal candidate is dependable, energetic, and able to perform tasks with attention to detail.

This position requires a minimum availability of 10 hours per week with the potential for up to 29 hours per week. Occasional additional hours may be available. Weekend and evening availability is required.

Major Responsibilities:

• Follow day-to-day operational direction provided by the Public Programs Manager, Event Operations Supervisor, and designated leadership for the assigned event to execute event setup, event support, and breakdown activities efficiently and professionally.
• Provide excellent customer service by anticipating client needs, addressing concerns, and ensuring a positive experience for all event attendees.
• Learn to navigate preferred event software to retrieve important event documents.
• Arrange tables, chairs, podiums, and decor to accommodate the event floor plans.
• Assist vendors, caterers, and event guests with load-in and set-up during events, ensuring their needs are met promptly.
• Direct foot traffic and provide accurate information regarding the events’ programming, amenities, and restrictions.
• Operate and troubleshoot museum-owned A/V equipment during events, including microphones, projectors, speakers, etc.
• Promptly communicate operational issues, facility concerns, equipment malfunctions, or guest incidents to the Event Operations Supervisor, escalating directly to the designated event Manager when appropriate.
• Help maintain a safe, welcoming, and family-friendly environment while promptly reporting concerns to the Event Operations Supervisor, Public Programs Manager, or designated leadership for the assigned event.
• Respond to any safety concerns and assist with emergency procedures and incident documentation where needed.

General Responsibilities

• Maintain cleanliness during the event in partnership with 3rd party cleaning company, including restroom upkeep, emptying trash receptacles, cleaning spills, changing light bulbs, and addressing breakages.
• Complete other event-related tasks as assigned by the Public Programs Manager.

Required Qualifications for Successful Position Performance

• Ability to remain calm and focused in emergency situations and assist with emergency procedures.
• Capable of general problem solving and knowing when to escalate.
• Works well with staff, vendors, and guests to ensure seamless event execution.
• Strong customer service skills with a helpful and cheerful demeanor.
• Must be available to work evenings, weekends, and occasionally on weekdays.
• Ability to lift up to 40 lbs. with or without a reasonable accommodation.

Preferred Qualifications

• First Aid/AED/CPR certification is a plus (can be obtained after hiring).

Education and Experience

• High school diploma or G.E.D credential required.
• College or advanced education in hospitality is preferred.
• Minimum 1-year of experience in hospitality/event operations/janitorial roles or equivalent education & experience.

Compensation & Benefits

• Hourly Wage is $15.00 per hour.
• Paid Parental Leave after 12 months of qualifying service in coordination with FMLA.

Candidates must have reliable transportation, be willing to undergo a criminal background check, and provide references (as needed/requested). Please note the hourly wage prior to sending a résumé and cover letter to the Human Resources Department at humanresource@detroithistorical.org. No phone calls, please.

EEO Statement

Detroit Historical Society is committed to the principles of equal employment. We respect diversity and accordingly are an equal opportunity employer that does not discriminate on the basis of actual or perceived race, color, creed, religion, national origin, ancestry, citizenship status, age, sex or gender (including pregnancy, childbirth, related medical conditions and lactation), gender identity or gender expression (including transgender status), sexual orientation , marital status, military service and veteran status, disability, genetic information, height, weight, or any other status protected by federal, state, or local laws and ordinances. The Organization is dedicated to the fulfillment of this policy in regard to all aspects of employment, including, but not limited to, recruiting, hiring, placement, transfer, training, promotion, rates of pay, and other compensation, termination, and all other terms, conditions, and privileges of employment.