Address
Form of work
SalaryThe Chautauqua Bookstore is located on Bestor Plaza and is open all year round. The Bookstore carries a variety of merchandise including a wide selection of new books. It also carries a selection of Chautauqua themed clothing and souvenirs, stationery and posters. Other popular items include creative and educational toys for children, as well as an assortment of locally produced products and international Fair Trade items. During the summer season the bookstore is open daily 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.
About Your Compensation
Compensation for this position starts at $15.00/Hour and, with demonstrated experience and qualifications, candidates may earn up to $16.00/Hour.
About Your Work Day
- Greet patrons, ascertain patron’s wants or needs and answer questions regarding merchandise.
- Describe merchandise and explain use, operation, and care to patrons and/or other associates.
- Recommend and help locate or obtain merchandise.
- Able to provide general information about Chautauqua Institution.
- Use a computer to provide information on product availability using our inventory management software and web-based book databases.
- Operate a cash register and / or POS system to compute sale prices, total purchases, process cash or credit payment and provide customer with proper sales receipt and change.
- Ensure accurate records of sales transactions and / or refunds in accordance with department polices.
- Knowledgeable about department policies regarding payment, exchanges and security practices.
- Assist in creating a safe, pleasant, and convenient retail environment.
- Sets up displays or arranges merchandise on counters, tables or racks to promote sales.
- Keep retail area clean and free of debris by performing light housekeeping duties as assigned.
- All other duties assigned.
About the Referral Program
Chautauqua Institution’s Referral Bonus Program is a talent solution to recruit, develop, and retain a diverse workforce that encompasses all the skills and experience necessary to deliver on our goals and objectives. Chautauqua Institution will provide a $500 referral bonus (less taxes) for active employees referring a new candidate who is hired and remains employed for at least 90-days from the first physical date of work. In the case of seasonal positions working less than 6-months, the new candidate must remain actively employed for at least 30-days from the first physical date of work and until the closing date of the season. The closing date of the season is the last Sunday in August.
About Your Schedule
Chautauqua Institution and Chautauqua Hotel Company offer flexible schedules, full and part-time, for seasonal employment during summer operations starting annually each June and concluding in August. Seasonal employment may be available earlier (pre-season) and beyond season (post-season) based on business needs and candidate availability. Schedules typically include evenings, weekends, and/or holidays as a requirement.
While you will confirm your final schedule with management at the time of an interview and offer of employment, you should generally anticipate the following schedule options for this position:
Flexible scheduling, work 20 to 40 hours/week within a schedule covering 7:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. Shifts available range from four to eight hours. One shift per weekend is required. Scheduled hours will include evenings, weekends, and holidays based on business needs.
About Living on the Grounds
Chautauqua Institution may provide limited housing options on our grounds or assist you with locating nearby housing arrangements for select opportunities based on business needs. Housing is not an option for many positions and may be of a cost to you. Candidates should assume there are no employer-provided or employer-assisted housing options available for this position unless it is otherwise stated.
About Chautauqua Institution
Chautauqua Institution is a not-for-profit global convener of dialogue on the most significant issues of the day through engagement across four pillars of the arts, education, religion, and recreation. The Chautauqua community is located on the shores of Chautauqua Lake in southwestern New York State and comes alive each summer with a unique mix of visual and performing arts, lectures, interfaith worship/programs, and recreational activities. Chautauqua Institution owns and operates Chautauqua Hotel Company, a comprehensive hotel, food & beverage, conferencing, and events organization. The Institution’s office in Washington, DC is located strategically for an ongoing role in the cultural conversations of the nation.
Discovering Your Chautauqua Experience
There are countless ways that our talent will engage with our mission, vision, and diverse communities, and you are invited to immerse yourself in our programming as a gateway to this experience. Employees will receive a traditional Chautauqua gate pass, free of cost, which provides access to many of our programs at the Amphitheater. In addition to a traditional gate pass, employees and their families will receive full access to our current and historical programs online at CHQ Assembly.
Commitment to Values of IDEA
Chautauqua Institution values Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, and Accessibility (IDEA) as a priority in our strategic plan, 150 Forward. One of our five core values is “The dignity and contributions of all people.” We are committed to creating conditions in which everyone feels that they can engage as full and valued participants in the Chautauqua experience. The Institution is an equal opportunity employer committed to equitable and inclusive hiring practices and applicants will not be discriminated against based on any status protected under federal, state, or local law. We especially welcome applications from those who can demonstrate past experience, engagement, and professional expertise in IDEA.
Joining Our Talent Community
Join our talent community online at CHQ.org/employment. You are encouraged to learn more about Chautauqua Institution at CHQ.org and view the 150 Forward Strategic Plan at 150fwd.CHQ.org.
Experience
Preferred- No prior retail experience is required for this position.
Skills
Required- Positive Attitude
- Listening
- Interpersonal Skills
- Friendliness
- Dependability
- Problem Solving
- Enthusiastic
- Empathy
- Critical Thinking
- Cooperation
- Collaborating
Behaviors
Required- Team Player: Works well as a member of a group
- Enthusiastic: Shows intense and eager enjoyment and interest
- Detail Oriented: Capable of carrying out a given task with all details necessary to get the task done well
Motivations
Required- Ability to Make an Impact: Inspired to perform well by the ability to contribute to the success of a project or the organization
- Flexibility: Inspired to perform well when granted the ability to set your own schedule and goals
- Entrepreneurial Spirit: Inspired to perform well by an ability to drive new ventures within the business
