Contemporary Art Museum Engagement Guide

Are you passionate about Contemporary Art? Do you want to share your enthusiasm with others? ICA San Diego is looking for individuals to join their dynamic team as Engagement Guides at either, or both of their locations. Their central San Diego location is next to the Mingei Museum in Balboa Park, and their North County location is in Encinitas.

Responsibilities will include: Warmly greeting and welcoming guests to exhibitions, answering questions and providing information about exhibits, artists, artworks, programs and events, engaging visitors in casual conversations to help them connect with contemporary art, leading tours through their spaces at either or both locations, for community groups and members of the public, communicating and enforcing Visitor Rules when necessary, and staying informed about the exhibits on view and upcoming programs.

The Institute of Contemporary Art (ICA) San Diego's two museum locations offer free access to exhibits, art education and events in order to build community and encourage diverse perspectives and conversations. As an Engagement Guide, you will support their mission by creating engaging and interactive experiences for their guests, fostering connections with visitors through conversation. This is an incredible opportunity for art enthusiasts to learn more about contemporary artwork and artists, and share their passion for art with members of our community as well as visitors to San Diego.

Opportunity Requirements & Important Notes

• Time Commitment: Prefer Engagement Guides to commit to at least two 2.5 hour shifts per month. Engagement Guides will also need to participate in learning and training around each Exhibit. Their Exhibits, depending on location, rotate about 2-3x/year.

• Onboarding Process: Interested volunteers need to fill out the volunteer application. Training sessions are held for Engagement Guides at the beginning of each art exhibition and last 1-2 hours. 

• Required Skills/Experience: Enthusiasm for art is a must! Volunteers need to be comfortable sharing ideas and having conversations about Contemporary Art.

• Desired Skills/Experience: An avid interest in Contemporary Art, and a desire to learn about contemporary artists and artworks is desirable for all Engagement Guides. Engagement Guides are also encouraged to attend their various education programs and events, and share their experiences with friends and family.

• Physical Requirements: Engagement Guides will need to be able to move around their spaces and interact with visitors. Acommodations can be made for individuals with physical limitations. Their Central San Diego location in Balboa Park has elevator access to the main exhibition space, restroom, offices and education spaces. Their North San Diego location offers handicapped parking at their Artist Pavillion as well as at their Educational Pavillion.

• Attire: Since Engagement Guides interact with the public, they appreciate well-fitting business casual attire, with comfortable shoes. Creativity is encouraged! They are an art museum!

• Note: Shifts and training schedules will be mutually agreed upon with our Volunteer Coordinator.

Institute of Contemporary Art San Diego

The Institute of Contemporary Art San Diego presents experimental art and learning with a mission to question everything.