Architecture Tour Docent

Salk Institute Office of Technology Development • San Diego, CA

6d

About The Position

Salk Docents are ambassadors to professional architects, scientific visitors,
and the general public.  The docent is expected to have knowledge of the history
of the Salk Institute, the buildings and architecture, architect Louis Kahn, and
the founder, Dr. Jonas Salk.  The Salk Docent guides assigned visitors through
the Salk campus on a pre-determined path, answers questions, and broadly
describes the current research of the Institute.  The docents are expected to
work with Salk Operations teams to ensure guest safety and to uphold Salk
guidelines.

Who We Are

The Salk Institute is an internationally renowned research institution that
values all [https://www.salk.edu/about/our-community/] members of our scientific
community. We seek bold and interactive leaders passionate about exploring new
frontiers in science. Our collaborative community embraces perspectives across
discipline, professional acumen, and unique life experiences, fostering
innovation, and a sense of belonging. Together, we strive to improve the
wellbeing of humanity through groundbreaking research.

Founded by Jonas Salk, developer of the first safe and effective polio vaccine,
the Institute is an independent, nonprofit research organization and
architectural landmark: small by choice, intimate by nature, and fearless in the
face of any challenge. Salk's vibrant community has many talented individuals
from varied backgrounds, each playing a crucial role in driving our mission
forward. From visionary leaders [https://www.salk.edu/about/management-team/] to
dedicated administrators [https://www.salk.edu/administration/] and
brilliant faculty members [https://www.salk.edu/science/directory/faculty/], the
Institute is united by a shared passion for scientific exploration and
innovation.

Requirements

• Public speaking experience through volunteer or paid positions as tour guide or docent.
• Associate's Degree (AA) or equivalent from a two-year college or technical school, or six months to one year of related experience and/or training, or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Computer skills required: Microsoft Office

Nice To Haves

• Background in Architecture or Design preferred.

Responsibilities

• Complete docent training as assigned by manager.
• Docents can sign up for tours as it suits their schedule. To remain active, docents must lead at least 2 tours a months and stay current on tour script, Salk research, and tour guidelines.
• Complete the necessary Institute trainings with EHS, SEC, and FS, and attend any additional Salk-required trainings assigned by manager.
• Manage assigned tour tasks, which include, but are not limited to, the following: meet tour attendees and make introductions, check in tour attendees with tour badge, lead tour group along designated tour route (or ADA route) while discussing the history, architecture and science of Salk Institute, ensure guests stay with the group, report all safety and security risks to Salk security and program manager, collect tour badges and remind guests of Salk visitor policies, and attend trainings about the program and the Institute.
• Must be knowledgeable of the Institute’s safety plans in the event of an emergency. The docent is responsible for leading the tour group to the correct meeting location in the event of an Institute emergency.
• Performs other related duties as assigned by management.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Part-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: Associate degree