Docent (Museum Tour Guide)

5 days ago

Washington, Washington, D.C., United States Art Scene Full time

Type: Commission-Based, Independent Contractor

Schedule: Set Your Own Hours

What is a docent?

The word "docent" (pronounced DOE-sent) is derived from the Latin word docere, meaning 'to teach'. Docents are trained guides who act as interpreters, educators, and community representatives, connecting visitors with art, history, and culture.

About Art Scene

We're revolutionizing museum experiences through technology. Think "Uber for docents." We connect passionate guides with museum visitors through our app-based platform.

What do Art Scene docents do?

Docents lead engaging tours for visitors of all ages at partner museums nationwide. You'll use different engagement techniques to start conversations about art, culture, history, and the world around us. Help visitors think critically and creatively while connecting them to collections and each other.

As you advance, you'll have opportunities to expand beyond single museum tours to local experiences, multi-day tours, and regional travel experiences.

Who can become a Art Scene docent?

Anyone with a passion for art, history, culture, and a desire to inspire others is welcome to apply. There are no educational or professional requirements. You only need enthusiasm for sharing knowledge and connecting with people.

Our training program will equip you with everything you need to know about effective guiding, engagement techniques, and working with diverse audiences.

Earning Structure

Set your own tour prices and keep up to 90% commission as you advance through our tier system. We handle visitor recruitment and booking. You focus on delivering exceptional tours. Higher performance unlocks increased commission rates and expanded tour opportunities.

What are the benefits of being a Museum Advocate docent?

  • Set your own pricing rather than it being set by an arbitrary algorithm
  • Keep up to 90% commission at advanced tiers
  • We find visitors for you and you can focus on tours, not marketing
  • Professional training in public engagement and community outreach
  • Free museum access at partner locations nationwide
  • Behind-the-scenes access to collections and exhibitions
  • Museum store discounts at partner locations
  • Recognition program for top performers
  • Flexible scheduling
  • Community building

What You'll Do

  • Lead engaging museum tours at partner locations nationwide
  • Use proven engagement techniques to connect visitors with art and culture
  • Help visitors think critically and creatively about collections
  • Build your reputation through excellent visitor experiences
  • Manage your bookings and coordinate with partner museums

Requirements

  • Enthusiasm for museums, art, history, or culture
  • Strong communication skills
  • Smartphone and reliable internet
  • Entrepreneurial mindset
  • Commitment to providing excellent visitor experiences

How do I become a Museum Advocate docent?

Qualification: Complete a pre-qualification form after application

Interview: Selected candidates will participate in a virtual interview process

Training: Complete our comprehensive training program covering museum education, engagement techniques, and platform usage

Launch: Get accepted by partner museums and start leading tours on your schedule

No museum experience required. We'll train you on everything you need to succeed as an independent docent.

Job Type: Contract

Pay: $ $150.00 per hour

Expected hours: 2 – 10 per week

Work Location: In person

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