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Seasonal Retail Associate (Castle Hill)

Who We Are:

Founded in 1891 by a group of visionary volunteers, The Trustees of Reservations (The Trustees) is the nation’s premier conservation and preservation organization. The Trustees’ preserves, for public use and enjoyment, properties of exceptional scenic, historic, and ecological value in Massachusetts. Our properties are open to all, and we thrive by involving as many people as possible in all that we do. We aim to protect special places for future generations to enjoy in perpetuity, and have helped protect more than 50,000 acres, including 27,000+ acres on more than 120 reservations that are open to the public. As a non-profit conservation organization, we are funded and supported entirely by our visitors, supporters, volunteers, and our 100,000 Member households. We encourage you to learn more about The Trustees on our website, www.thetrustees.org.

Posting Information:

Salary/Hourly Rate: $16-$18 

Hours per week: 8-16 hours a weekend June-August 

Job Classification: Nonexempt, Limited Term 

Job Type: Onsite 

Duration: Variable. Est- May - December 

Location: Castle Hill on the Crane Estate, Great House, Ipswich, MA 

What You’ll Do:

The Role:

As a Seasonal Retail Associate, you perform the essential function of welcoming all guests to Castle Hill on the Crane Estate and selling merchandise in the Gift Shop and/or Welcome Cottage.  

You are crucial as ambassadors of The Trustees, introducing guests to Gift Shop merchandise, sharing the history of the house and Crane family with guests, directing guests to refreshments and amenities, and explaining the many benefits of membership.    

Specifically, you’ll:

  • Operate Shopify POS system to sell merchandise/refreshments.  
  • Maintain supplies. This includes but is not limited to restocking and maintaining inventory as needed and alerting the Manager to inventory levels.  
  • Independently open and close the Gift Shop, including starting and closing register sales sessions and reporting sales.  
  • Upon request, work at the tour desk and/or welcome cottage directing visitors and selling merchandise, tickets, and memberships.  
  • Establish a positive visitor experience and provide excellent customer service   

This is a limited term nonexempt position (8 – 16 hours/week) reporting directly to the Castle Hill Retail Manager. 

What You’ll Need:

Skills and Experience:

  • Able to provide respectful, exceptional customer service to all guests with a friendly, courteous, and confident demeanor.   
  • Able to learn and use POS and Ticketing systems, handle cash, and make credit card sales.   
  • Able to handle multiple tasks and unexpected situations in a calm manner.   
  • Team-oriented, with a professional, positive attitude towards all staff, volunteers, and guests.   
  • Availability to work at least one day each weekend and some evenings and holidays. 
  • Must be able to lift 40 lbs. 
  • Must be able to work in varying weather conditions, including summer heat. 
  • Must be able to work 2-3 days a week, including some weekend days and holidays. 

Eligibility Criteria:

  • Current authorization to work in the United States – a candidate must have such authorization by his or her first day of employment. 
  • A satisfactory criminal background (CORI) check. 

Don’t quite have all the skills and experience listed above? We still want to hear from you! Research shows that historically marginalized groups are less likely to apply if they do not meet every single requirement. We are committed to building a diverse team and encourage you to apply even if you are missing some of the skills and experience above.

Questions? Contact our People team at people@thetrustees.org!

Your Benefits:

  • Sick time: Mass Sick Leave Accrual 
  • Reciprocity: Employees have access to free and discounted admission and membership to more than 50 nearby museums and cultural institutions.  
  • Discounts: Enjoy free entry to all Trustees properties, discount event tickets, and discounted merchandise at our stores and on stays at our inns.  

Equal Opportunity and Diversity:

The Trustees is a proud equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate against any protected status including, but not limited to, age, race, ethnicity, sex, gender, sexual preferences, nation of origin, religion, or disability status and strongly encourages applications from people of color, persons with varying abilities, women, and LGBTQ+ applicants. We aspire to reflect and effectively serve the residents and communities of Massachusetts, who are at the core of our mission.

The Trustees’ commitment to advancing the organization’s vision for this work may be found here: Diversity, Belonging, Inclusion and Equity.

It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

We are committed to creating an inclusive and accessible work environment. To request reasonable accommodations during the application or interview process, please contact us at people@thetrustees.org.

Average salary estimate

$17680 / YEARLY (est.)
min
max
$16640K
$18720K

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What You Should Know About Seasonal Retail Associate (Castle Hill), The Trustees of Reservations

Join us as a Seasonal Retail Associate with The Trustees at Castle Hill on the Crane Estate! As a part of our passionate team, you’ll be the friendly face welcoming guests to our stunning property, sharing its rich history, and ensuring a memorable experience for everyone who visits. This role is perfect for those who thrive in a lively retail environment. You’ll engage directly with guests, assisting them in exploring our diverse selection of merchandise while operating our Shopify POS system for sales. We’re all about building a positive atmosphere, so your exceptional customer service skills will shine as you interact with visitors, share insights about the estate and its fascinating stories, and promote membership benefits that enhance their time with us. With variable hours available during weekends and holidays, you’ll be required to work between 8 to 16 hours weekly from June to August, and you can look forward to some shared laughs with your team as you support one another through the ebbs and flows of the retail world. A passion for customer service, the ability to handle tasks amid an ever-changing environment, and a friendly disposition are essential for this role. At The Trustees, we believe that every individual adds to our unique tapestry, and we welcome authentic voices to apply to this limited-term position. Come help us create delightful experiences at Castle Hill!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Seasonal Retail Associate (Castle Hill) Role at The Trustees of Reservations
What are the qualifications required to become a Seasonal Retail Associate at Castle Hill?

To qualify for the Seasonal Retail Associate position at Castle Hill with The Trustees, candidates should possess strong customer service skills, a friendly demeanor, the ability to handle cash transactions, and a willingness to learn about merchandise and history. It’s essential to be team-oriented and available to work weekends, with the ability to lift up to 40 lbs. While experience in retail is helpful, we encourage anyone willing to learn to apply.

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What responsibilities does a Seasonal Retail Associate at Castle Hill have?

As a Seasonal Retail Associate at Castle Hill, your primary responsibilities include greeting guests, selling merchandise at the Gift Shop and Welcome Cottage, operating the POS system, maintaining inventory levels, and providing excellent customer service. You’ll also work on directing visitors to refreshments and share the estate’s rich history, making every guest feel valued and informed.

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How many hours can a Seasonal Retail Associate expect to work at Castle Hill?

The work schedule for a Seasonal Retail Associate at Castle Hill varies between 8 to 16 hours per week, primarily on weekends and occasionally on holidays during the summer months. This limited-term position allows flexibility within a fun, dynamic work environment, perfect for those looking for part-time seasonal work.

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What kind of benefits do Seasonal Retail Associates at Castle Hill receive?

Seasonal Retail Associates at Castle Hill will enjoy benefits such as sick time accrual, discounts on admission to various museums and cultural sites, and reduced pricing on event tickets and merchandise. This enriching experience not only provides financial perks but also opportunities for personal growth within a respected conservation organization.

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Is previous retail experience necessary for the Seasonal Retail Associate position at Castle Hill?

While previous retail experience can be beneficial, it is not a strict requirement to apply for the Seasonal Retail Associate role at Castle Hill with The Trustees. We value a positive attitude and a willingness to learn; thus, we encourage candidates from diverse backgrounds to apply even if they do not meet all the listed experience criteria.

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Common Interview Questions for Seasonal Retail Associate (Castle Hill)
How would you handle an unhappy customer at Castle Hill?

To address an unhappy customer, I would listen attentively to their concerns while maintaining a calm and friendly demeanor. Acknowledging their feelings is essential, and I would work towards providing a solution that satisfies them, whether it’s a refund or exchanging an item, ensuring they leave with a positive impression of both the store and the experience.

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What do you know about the history of Castle Hill?

During the interview, I would share my understanding of Castle Hill’s significance, including its beautiful architecture, its connection to the Crane family, and its role as one of The Trustees’ cherished properties. By showing enthusiasm for its history, I can demonstrate my commitment to conveying that heritage to guests.

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How would you prioritize your tasks during a busy shift at the Gift Shop?

In a busy environment like the Gift Shop, I’d prioritize customer service first while ensuring that inventory is well-managed. By quickly greeting patrons, helping with sales, and restocking items where needed, I can maintain a smooth workflow while ensuring visitors feel welcomed.

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Tell me about a time you worked as part of a team.

I would share an experience where I collaborated with colleagues to achieve a common goal. For instance, we might have worked together to prepare for a large event, emphasizing how open communication and mutual support led to a successful outcome and a great experience for our guests.

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What attracts you to the Seasonal Retail Associate position at Castle Hill?

The opportunity to work at Castle Hill attracts me because of my passion for conservation and community engagement. I appreciate how The Trustees preserve nature and history, and I want to be part of a team that educates and enriches our visitors while providing them with unforgettable experiences.

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How do you stay calm under pressure in a retail setting?

To stay calm under pressure, I focus on taking one task at a time, remaining organized, and utilizing my training effectively. I remind myself of the importance of providing excellent service and view each situation as an opportunity to learn and adapt.

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How do you see the role of a Seasonal Retail Associate impacting guests at Castle Hill?

As a Seasonal Retail Associate, I see my role as pivotal in enhancing the guests’ experience. By providing information, answering questions, and showcasing merchandise, I am creating positive memories and fostering a sense of belonging to The Trustees community.

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What would you do if you noticed a potential safety hazard in the Gift Shop?

If I noticed a safety hazard in the Gift Shop, I would immediately inform my supervisor and take the necessary precautions to ensure the safety of our guests and team members. This might mean blocking off an area or addressing the hazard until it is resolved.

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Describe how you would inform guests about membership benefits.

I would inform guests about membership benefits by engaging them in conversation while at the register or on the floor. Explaining the perks, such as free admission to other properties and discounts, allows me to position the membership not just as a transaction but as an opportunity for continued exploration of what The Trustees offers.

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Why is customer service important in a role like this?

Customer service is crucial as it sets the tone for guests' experiences at Castle Hill. By ensuring visitors feel welcomed, appreciated, and informed, I can enhance their satisfaction and encourage repeat visits while representing the values of The Trustees.

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As a steward of distinctive and dynamic places of both historic and cultural value, The Trustees is the nation’s first and Massachusetts’ largest preservation and conservation nonprofit, and its landscapes and landmarks continue to inspire discuss...

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SENIORITY LEVEL REQUIREMENT
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Part-time, on-site
DATE POSTED
January 4, 2025

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