Desk Supervisor (Part-Time)

About The Kennedy Center

“I am certain that after the dust of centuries has passed over our cities, we, too, will be remembered not for victories or defeats in battle or in politics, but for our contribution to the human spirit.” – President John F. Kennedy

The Kennedy Center is the nation’s cultural center and living memorial to President John F. Kennedy. Located on the banks of the Potomac River in Washington, D.C., the Center presents performances across all genres, and is also home to artistic affiliates Washington National Opera and National Symphony Orchestra. 

At the Kennedy Center, we strive to foster belonging and empowerment at work. We are able to advance our mission because of our committed and passionate employees. We are fortunate to be able to leverage their diverse perspectives, life experiences and skills to inform how our workplace can be a safe, transparent, and replenishing community. The Kennedy Center is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate against any employee or applicant based on race, religion, gender identity, sexual orientation, disability, veteran status, marital status, pregnancy or related condition, or any other basis protected by law. 

Mission Statement: As the nation's performing arts center, and a living memorial to President John F. Kennedy, we are a leader for the arts across America and around the world, reaching and connecting with artists, inspiring and educating communities. We welcome all to create, experience, learn about, and engage with the arts. 

Why Join Us

We offer a comprehensive range of benefits to all employees including: 

• Staff offers for discount tickets
• We like to have fun! Check out the Kennedy Center National Dance Day 2023 staff video!

Job Description

The Desk Supervisor reports to the Manager and Coordinators of Usher Services. The Desk Supervisor follows procedures established by Usher Services Administrative team areas including floor management, training, staffing management, and rules and regulations pertaining to the usher staff. This role is responsible for providing customer service to members of and managing daily administrative tasks of the Usher Services Department. This involves managing the Usher Services phoneline, email, and payroll records. This role also deals with problems in the department as they arise, including scheduling and staffing issues. At times, this role performs supervisory roles to Ushers working on the floor.

Key Responsibilities

• Manages the scheduling system to make appropriate changes.
• Assist in managing, scheduling, and training of ushers in the varying positions. 
• Verify various rosters for position accuracy.
• Verify and correct payrolls submitted by Head Ushers. 
• Manage the staff working special events, adjusting scheduling and positioning when necessary. 
• Work with the Usher Services Admin staff on various administration projects. 
• Manage the Usher Services email, including responding and digitally filing. 
• Monitor and check usher lockers and loaner program. 
• Establish, share, and enforce appropriate house rules.
• Physically and digital file paperwork related to the department. 
• Assists with support on the floor when necessary.
• Update and maintain the Usher Services announcement board.
• Demonstrate an in-depth knowledge of all venues and a thorough understanding of evacuation procedures from all points within that venue. 
• Assist in briefing and guiding newly hired ushers. 
• Other duties as directed.  

Key Qualifications

• Formal training beyond a high school diploma of at least one year's duration or equivalent desired. Experience in office or administrative support is a plus. Experience in Microsoft TEAMS, When I Work & UKG scheduling system is a plus.
• Scheduling: must be able to work at least two 6-hour shifts permanently a week and work location may be changed at any time, as required by business necessity.  Other duties and responsibilities as assigned. 
• Must have the ability to stand for long periods of time, be able to move up and down stairs, be able to descend/ascend ramps and inclines/declines, be able to open theater doors repeatedly, and be able to lift and carry up to 15 pounds with or without reasonable accommodation.  Close concentration, visual attention and need for manual dexterity.   
• Ability to understand and be able to enforce established rules and procedures detailed in the Usher Handbook.
• Deal effectively with a wide variety of personalities and situations requiring diplomacy, tact, friendliness, poise, and firmness.
• Provide immediate and appropriate response to safety incidents and emergencies.
• Flexible work schedule. Evening, weekend, and holiday work is required.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, and Forms. 

Additional Information

• Will be working in a fast-paced, busy environment with environmental conditions such as low-to-high noise levels, varying tasks happening simultaneously, and working with staff members of all levels.