Duties
This position is located in the Office of the Curator of the Supreme Court of the United States in Washington, D.C. The Office of the Curator serves the Supreme Court by promoting a greater public understanding and appreciation of the nation's highest court.
The Visitor Programs Assistant is responsible for a wide range of activities focusing primarily on visitor services and public and private programming, including Courtroom Lectures and tours. Reporting to the Visitor Programs Manager, the incumbent is responsible for educating the public and guests of the Court on the history of the Supreme Court, its Justices, and the Supreme Court Building. To accomplish this work, the Visitor Programs Assistant assists the Visitor Programs Manager with oversight of the volunteer docent and intern programs and has primary responsibility for creating daily schedules for docents and interns. The Visitor Programs Assistant handles routine public contact, preparing a variety of interpretive materials, reports, and other forms as assigned. The position requires strong communication and interpersonal skills; someone who genuinely enjoys working with the public, volunteers, and staff at all levels. Precise attention to detail, tact, diplomacy, and the ability to adapt and adjust accordingly to changes in the daily schedule and last-minute requests for tours and services are also essential. The position requires occasional after-hours work for special events.
The Visitor Programs Assistant supports Visitor Programs at the Supreme Court by:
- Preparing and updating daily schedules to ensure staffing for the Visitor Desk, and that all Courtroom Lectures, building tours, and other office duties are covered.
- Responding to inquiries and requests regarding visiting the Supreme Court.
- Assisting with recruiting, training, managing, and evaluating volunteer docents and interns.
- Assisting the Visitor Programs Manager with the coordination, development, and evaluation of visitor programs.
- Conducting building tours and Courtroom Lectures.
- Assisting with the production of in-person, print, and web-based activities for visitors, including students, teachers, families, and persons with disabilities.
- Creating and distributing newsletters to the docent corps, and other updates as necessary.
Requirements
Conditions of employment
- Meet Experience Requirements (see Qualifications)
- Employment is subject to successful completion of a security background check.
- If you are a male applicant born after December 31, 1959, you must certify that you have registered with the Selective Service System, or are exempt from having to do so under the Selective Service Law. See: www.sss.gov
Qualifications
One to three years of experience working with the public in a museum setting or in an educational/teaching environment is required. Highly motivated individual with knowledge of American history, public speaking experience, strong organizational skills, and the ability to maintain precise records. Candidates must possess the ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing, to interact with diverse audiences using tact and diplomacy, and to perform under pressure while acting on best judgment.
Proficiency with Microsoft Office required. Proficiency with Adobe Creative Suite (in particular Adobe InDesign and Adobe Photoshop) strongly preferred.
Education
A bachelor's degree in a related field such as History, Museum Education, Museum Studies, Parks, Recreation and Tourism, or American Studies is required.
Additional information
Working for the Supreme Court of the United States offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes, in part, paid vacation, sick leave, holidays, life insurance, health benefits, and participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System. Additional benefits include flexible spending accounts, long-term care insurance, and the SmartBenefits transit subsidy.
Candidates should be committed to improving the efficiency of the Federal government, passionate about the ideals of our American republic, and committed to upholding the rule of law and the United States Constitution.
How you will be evaluated
You will be evaluated for this job based on how well you meet the qualifications above.
We will review and assess your application package in comparison with the posted qualifications for the position.