ICA Freelance Visitor Services Attendant & Gallery Ambassador

Job Description

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.

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
• Maintain cleanliness, organization, and readiness of public spaces and the bookshop
• Provide information and assistance related to ICA’s accessibility amenities
• Aid guests during emergency egress, medical situations, or other unusual circumstances, following established protocols
• Handle challenging interactions with professionalism, discretion, and sound judgment
• 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
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail
• Interest in art, museum education, or visitor experience; art background a plus

Job Location

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Department / School

Provost's Center

Pay Range

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.