Architecture Tour Docent

Staff Career•La Jolla, CA

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 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 to dedicated administrators and brilliant faculty members , 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.
Shadow each current docent on general docent-led tours, 5 hours.
Watch and read the required background information, including, but not limited to My Architect, Cathedrals of Culture, and Shot Felt Round the World.
Lead three supervised tours: 1 with a current docent and manager, and 2 with with public guests and manager.
Total paid training is 8 hours at $25 per hour, total of $200.
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.