Store Associate (Full-time)

National Geographic Society•Washington, DC

8d•$22•Onsite

About The Position

The National Geographic Society headquarters, based in Washington, D.C., is undergoing a significant renovation project on its campus (called Base Camp). In 2026, we are opening the Museum of Exploration, featuring a state-of-the-art pavilion entrance, auditorium, iconic photo gallery, exhibition space, immersive walk-through attraction, retail, food and beverage, education center, archives, tours, and exciting new event space. The capstone of the renovation is a one-of-a-kind nighttime experience in the courtyard. The Retail Sales Associate assists in daily operations in the Museum of Exploration Shop and associated retail outlets across Base Camp, and external pop-up events. The Retail Sales Associate is responsible for servicing visitors, maintaining organization of all retail outlets, performing the functions of a cashier, and supporting the fulfillment activities of the retail outlets. The Retail Sales Associate reports to the Store Manager, Retail Shop and operates within the Hospitality Team for the Museum of Exploration. We are seeking a team member who values interoperability and is ready to jump in and support colleagues across different projects when needed. At the Museum of Exploration, we believe that our greatest successes come from shared expertise and a willingness to step outside of a single role. This isn't just a part of the job; it's a core aspect of how we operate and collaborate, reflecting the spirit of partnership that defines National Geographic's culture.

Requirements

High school Diploma preferred.
0–1-year experience in a retail store setting preferably in a museum or visitor attraction.
Experience in a visitor attraction or museum retail shop or warehouse
Cash-handling experience
Attention to detail
Strong written and oral communication skills
Collaborative mindset and ability to work in a team or group to accomplish a task
Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and Google Workplace tools
Be able to lift up to 25lbs
Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the United States.
This position is not eligible for visa sponsorship.

Nice To Haves

Ability to work in a fast-paced environment with shifting priorities
Proactive customer service mindset
Ability to work nights and weekends as needed

Responsibilities

Provide exceptional customer service in accordance with the National Geographic visitor service philosophy
Utilize the Retail POS to process purchases, exchanges, and returns within the Museum of Exploration Shop, retail outlets across Base Camp, and at external pop-up events
Upsell add-on items during visitor transactions
Maintain an organized and orderly environment for ease of navigation and execution of retail operations within the retail outlets
Stay up to date on product knowledge in order to answer customer inquiries quickly and efficiently
Answer customer questions about the Museum of Exploration, including exhibits and events
Support the Retail Warehouse Team in transferring merchandise from the warehouse to the sales floor
Place product quickly and accurately as it is brought from the warehouse to the sales floor
Assist the Assistant Manager, Retail Shop in merchandising and setting product displays
Complete the damage process for merchandise that is returned damaged or is damaged on the sales floor
Assist the General Manager, Retail Shop with monthly cycle counts and inventory spot checks
Be able to support the Warehouse Team in the warehouse if needed
Participate in the annual inventory process
Support various teams as needed, providing cross-trained coverage for breaks, absences, or high volume.
Assist with general museum tasks such as maintaining public spaces, providing basic visitor assistance, and helping with event setup/breakdown.

Benefits

medical, dental, and vision insurance
engaging and comprehensive wellness program
401(k) retirement savings plan with matching contributions after 6 months of employment
flexible paid time off benefits with up to 22 days of paid annual leave per calendar year (15 days for new hires in their first year, prorated based on the number of pay periods remaining in the year) and 10 days of sick leave
12 paid holidays and a paid winter break between December 25 and 31
paid parental leave, adoption and surrogacy expense reimbursement, fertility benefits
learning and development opportunities
Lifestyle Spending Account
pet adoption assistance and insurance
pre-tax transportation benefits with a generous employer subsidy
employer-paid life insurance and disability benefit
a variety of National Geographic discounts and perks