Retail Sales - Chautauqua

Job Details · Description · Chautauqua Literary Arts convenes readers and writers of all ages in community, conversation, intensive craft development, and exploratory learning opportunities. · Summer season programs for the Chautauqua Literary Arts department includes the Chautau ...

Job description

Job Details

Description

Chautauqua Literary Arts convenes readers and writers of all ages in community, conversation, intensive craft development, and exploratory learning opportunities.

Summer season programs for the Chautauqua Literary Arts department includes the Chautauqua Writers' Center, Chautauqua Literary and Scientific Circle (CLSC), youth programs, The Chautauqua Prize, and the Chautauqua Janus Prize.

Chautauqua Literary and Scientific Circle (CLSC) is one of the oldest continuous book discussion groups in the United States and has been a leader in adult education through quality programming since 1878.

Once members read their choice of 12 books from the CLSC Booklist, they are eligible to become graduates of the program.

Each year, the CLSC adds approximately nine books of literary quality to the list and invites the authors to Chautauqua to present their work during the summer season.

The CLSC Young Readers program encourages the enjoyment of good reading; each year books are selected based on their quality, the variety of styles and subjects, and their appeal to young adult readers.

The CLSC Bookstore is located in the Octagon Building. The hours of operation are 12 – 5 p.m. Monday to Friday and Sunday. Closed Saturday.

The retail aspects operate under the inventory, point-of-sale, and deposit systems of the Chautauqua Bookstore in nearby Bestor Plaza and are arranged in cooperation with Chautauqua Bookstore staff.

The CLSC Octagon Clerk provides exceptional customer service by greeting patrons, identifying their needs, and offering knowledgeable assistance with merchandise selection and purchases.

This role supports daily retail operations while promoting a welcoming and informative environment for all guests. This position plays a vital role in delivering an engaging and informative bookstore experience for all patrons.

About You

Ideal candidates have 1-3 years' experience in retail sales or related customer service experience; bookstore sales preferred.

The Ideal Candidate Should Have

Strong customer service and communication skills.
Basic computer proficiency and comfort with POS systems and data entry within databases.
Attention to detail and accuracy in handling transactions.
Ability to work collaboratively in a team-oriented environment.
Interest in books, authors, and community programming preferred.

About Your Compensation

Compensation for this position starts at $16.00/Hour and, with demonstrated experience and qualifications, candidates may earn up to $17.00/Hour.

About Your Work Day

Customer Service & Building Operations/Maintenance

Greet patrons, ascertain patron's wants or need and answer questions regarding merchandise.
Recommend and help locate or obtain merchandise.
Able to provide general information about Chautauqua Institution.
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.

Technology and Communication

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.

Data entry for CLSC memberships.
Ensure accurate records of sales transactions and / or refunds in accordance with department polices.

Event and Program Support

Attends the weekly CLSC author presentation and assists with the author signing on the porch of Alumni Hall.
Supports CLSC Octagon Manager and Director of Literary Arts in logistical, operational, and administrative roles related to literary events.
Supports CLSC Octagon Manager and Director of Literary Arts in operational support of community partnerships and interdepartmental programming.
Knowledgeable about department policies regarding payment, exchanges and security practices.

Special Note:

We encourage the new team member to read the current year's CLSC book selections and the Chautauqua Prize–winning book between their first day of employment in June and throughout the Summer Assembly (June 27 – August 30).

This background will enrich your understanding of the season's programming and help you feel more connected to the community's literary traditions.

About Your Work Schedule & Location

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

Will be scheduled to work an average of 20- to 25-hours/week, Monday to Friday and Sunday afternoons. Scheduled hours may include evenings, weekends, and holidays based on business needs. This position is at Chautauqua Institution's main campus in Southwestern New York (Chautauqua County).

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.

No employer-provided housing is available for this position. Applicants should plan to secure independent housing or reside within a commutable distance.

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, conference, and events organization.

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.

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.

Our Commitment to 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 where everyone can engage as complete and valued participants in the Chautauqua experience.

The Institution is an equal opportunity employer committed to equitable and inclusive hiring practices. Applicants and employees 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 experience, engagement, and professional expertise in IDEA.

Joining Our Talent Community

Join our talent community online at You are encouraged to learn more about Chautauqua Institution at and view the 150 Forward Strategic Plan