Institute for Contemporary Art Cafe and Retail Associate

Advertising Summary: The Institute for Contemporary Art (ICA) invites applications for the part-time position of Cafe and Retail Associate.

Unit: Institute for Contemporary Art MBU

Department: Institute for Contemporary Art

Department Summary: Designed by Steven Holl Architects and located at the corner of Broad and Belvidere, the Institute for Contemporary Art (ICA) at VCU presents the art of our time and provides an open forum for dialogue and collaboration across the region and throughout the world. With free admission, the ICA is a major resource for VCU, Richmond, and beyond.

Duties & Responsibilities:

Job Overview Statement

The Visitor Experience Associate of Retail is a member of the Institute for Contemporary Arts’s retail team, supporting in the daily operations of the ICA Shop + Cafe, helping ensure a safe, high-quality retail experience for visitors. The ICA’s retail program is a synthesis of carefully curated food, beverages, products, art publications, and intimate programming, and is firmly rooted in our commitment to create sustainable operations that support welcoming and curious art and culture focused opportunities. The cafe values its sustainability practices, is committed to working with local food and beverage suppliers, and encourages visitors to enjoy a “to stay” dining experience. 

Job Responsibilities

• Create a welcoming and hospitable environment for visitors, accurately responding to inquiries in regards to the shop, menu, cafe hours, and basic operational information

• Provide day-of support for public and private events

• Receive shipments at loading dock and assist with stocking and inventory

• Process ICA Shop + Cafe sales, and log visitor feedback

• Maintain a deep knowledge of the ICA with a focus on Shop + Cafe products and offerings

• Receive and respond to phone inquiries

• Maintain ServSafe Food Handler Certificate 

• Learn and implement menu execution and any updates or menu changes

• Display a working knowledge of all ingredients and preparation used on the menu

• Participate in food prep, ensuring excellence in communication, cooking, and proper storage and labeling of prepared foods and ingredients

• Ensure that prep station is stocked throughout service and overall station remains clean and organized

• Barista duties for tea and coffee service

• Participates in a professionally run service period, ensuring excellence in plate assembly, timing, and communication

• Maintain a calm, professional, and respectful demeanor while managing food and/or beverage tickets

• Work collaboratively and supportively on a small team

• Other duties as assigned

Qualifications:

Minimum Qualifications

• Must possess excellent customer service skills and a welcoming demeanor in order to successfully engage and interact with an audience from all backgrounds.

• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with staff, volunteers, and members of the public while exercising tact and diplomacy at all times.

• Ability to lift 50 pounds and set up, move, and break down event furniture.

• Ability to stand and/or walk for prolonged periods.

• Must have a flexible schedule and the ability to work weekends, evenings, and some holidays.

• Must have strong verbal communication skills.

• Demonstrated ability to work in and foster an environment of respect, professionalism and civility with a population of faculty, staff, and students from all backgrounds and experiences, or a commitment to do so as a staff member at VCU.

Preferred Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent

• Meal prep experience within a food service setting.

• Customer service experience; or an equivalent combination of education and training

• Experience working public and private events

• Experience working in a hospitality setting

• Experience working with point-of-sale software in a hospitality setting  

Salary Range: Minimum hourly rate of $16/hour.

Benefits: All VCU employee types are eligible for a wide array of benefits to support you during your employment at VCU. Consult the benefits website for information on benefits eligibility according to employee type.

FLSA Exemption Status: Non-Exempt

Hours per Week: Less than 29 hours per week. It may vary each week.

ORP Eligible: No

Flexible Work Arrangement: Fully Onsite

University Job Title:  H - Coordinator MS 1

Rank: Non Faculty

Application Deadline: Tuesday, September 1, 2026

Contact Information:
Contact Name: VCUarts HR
Contact Email: artshr@vcu.edu