Visitor Experience Lead - Programming Specialist

The Program Specialist develops and presents innovative and engaging interpretation, programs, and activities, inspired by the Conservatory’s exhibits and collections, with the goal of driving attendance. This position is directly responsible for Family Fun activities, books entertainment, and handles logistics for all public programming., * Plans, and presents family-friendly programming, used to drive attendance and promote loyalty and membership with visitors.

• Works creatively and collaboratively with peers across the organization to create an outstanding and cohesive visitor experience.

• Engages with community partners to develop programs aimed at expanding patron diversity.

• Handles all programs logistics including, securing payment for performers, reserving performance spaces and coordinates set-up of programs with the facilities team.

• Secures volunteers and staff support as needed for the successful implementation of programming.

• Helps organize departmental program information for dissemination to Marketing, the Visitor Center and other staff as needed.

• Leads the development, creation and daily maintenance of the Children’s Interactive Play Area and lower concourse train display.
• Helps organize departmental program information for dissemination to Marketing, the Visitor Center and other staff as needed.

• Assists with the annual Gingerbread Competition and display, and/or similar type community engagement.

• Answers the main phone line, so must be well versed in all aspects of the registration and point of sale systems, and capable of handling all types of transactions.

• Conducts visitor tours of the facility.

• As a member of the Visitor Experience team, the Programming Specialist may be used as support staff for the ticket center, butterfly door and train staffing when necessary to meet minimum coverage requirements.

• Acts a weekday Manager on Duty as assigned.

• Demonstrates knowledge of Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Garden and other local activities, events and exhibits.

• Performs other duties as assigned and demonstrates focus on serving the visitors and guests of Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens.

• High School diploma or equivalent required.

• 3+ years of experience in informal or formal education and/or customer service

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES

• Ability to provide outstanding customer service to internal and external clients.

• Strong written and verbal communication skills with the ability to engage an audience.

• Strong interpersonal and teamwork skills.

• Willingness to take initiative and think and act proactively to solve problems and assess priorities.

• Strong, detail oriented, organizational and time management skills with the ability to manage a variety of tasks calmly and effectively.

• Proficient with a computer, with a working knowledge of Word, Excel, and Powerpoint.

• Research, writing, program conceptualization and delivery skills.

Additional Information: This is a full-time, non-exempt position. This position is eligible for the Conservatory’s benefit package offered to full-time employees, which includes medical, dental and vision insurance, company paid Life/AD&D/Short-Term and Long-Term Disability insurance, participation in the Ohio Public Employees Retirement Program (OPERS), optional 457(b) Deferred Compensation plan, generous Paid Time Off (PTO), and complimentary membership to the Conservatory.

Compensation: $19/hourly paid biweekly.

Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens offers world-class horticulture, art & nature-based exhibitions and educational programs. The 13-acre indoor and outdoor facility-situated two miles from downtown Columbus-features glasshouses including the historic John F. Wolfe Palm House; botanical gardens including the Scotts Miracle-Gro Foundation Children’s Garden and Scotts Miracle Gro-Foundation Community Garden Campus; and event venues. The Conservatory is home to the largest collection of Chihuly glass in a botanical garden and Light Raiment II by internationally renowned artist James Turrell. Committed to the community, the Conservatory strives to provide an accessible and welcoming experience to all.