Usher (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 America's performing arts center, and a living memorial to President John F. Kennedy, we are a leader for the arts across the United States and around the world, connecting the greatest living artists with audiences of every stripe, no matter their background. We welcome all Americans and creators and visitors from across the globe to discover, experience, learn about, be inspired by, and engage with the arts.

Pay Details

The Kennedy Center strives to design equitable compensation programs. The projected pay rate for this position is $17.95 per hour. This is the targeted rate of possible compensation for this role at the time of posting. This range may be modified in the future.

Job Description

Ushers are vital front-line representatives of the Kennedy Center, responsible for delivering exceptional guest service and ensuring the comfort, safety, and overall experience of all patrons across multiple venues. This includes but is not limited to the Concert Hall, Opera House, Eisenhower Theater, Terrace Theater, Theater Lab, Family Theater, Millennium Stage, Terrace Gallery, the REACH, and other spaces as assigned.

This role requires professionalism, attentiveness, and flexibility while supporting patrons, visiting artists, donors, and staff. Ushers are expected to handle audience services, pre-show and post-show operations, emergency response, and all other duties within the scope of enhancing audience experience.

Key Responsibilities

• Greet, direct, and escort patrons to their seats courteously and efficiently.
• Distribute programs and event materials.
• Maintain a clean, orderly, and safe environment in assigned areas.
• Monitor the venue for safety issues, lost items, or disruptions.
• Enforce house rules and seating policies.
• Remain at assigned post for the duration of the event unless on break.
• Assist guests with disabilities according to training and protocols.
• Attend all required pre-show briefings and periodic training sessions.
• Demonstrate working knowledge of venue layout and emergency evacuation procedures.
• Complete additional duties as assigned by management.
• Other duties as assigned.

Key Qualifications

• High school diploma required; some college or formal training preferred.
• 6 months to 1 year of related experience or equivalent.
• Completion of usher orientation and venue-specific training.
• Knowledge of theater seat layouts and access paths.
• Strong interpersonal and conflict resolution skills.
• Ability to remain professional, calm, and composed in dynamic environments.
• Reliable and punctual with a flexible schedule (evenings, weekends, holidays).
• Clear verbal communication in English; ability to read small print.
• General theater knowledge is a plus.
• Must maintain a clean, professional, and well-groomed appearance in accordance with Kennedy Center standards.
• Candidate must be local or willing to relocate to the DMV area. Relocation assistance is not provided.
• Candidate must be willing to work onsite.

Physical Demands

• Stand for extended periods.
• Navigate stairs, ramps, and inclines.
• Open and close doors repeatedly.
• Lift and carry up to 15 pounds.

Work Environment

• Busy, fast-paced environment.
• Varying lighting conditions (including dim/dark).
• Exposure to varying noise levels and elevations.

Additional Information

• Must be available for at least two permanent 4-hour shifts per week.
• Work location may vary based on operational needs.
• Responsibilities may change based on business requirements and management direction.