Opportunities

The Charles & Ray Eames Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to preserving, communicating, and expanding the artistic and intellectual contributions of Charles and Ray Eames. Building on the mission of the Eames House Preservation Foundation and extending the cultural work long championed by the Eames Office, the Foundation ensures the Eames philosophy and ideas remain vital today.

With the Eames Office as founding sponsor, the Foundation preserves the Eames House and fosters a global network of Eames collections and initiatives, serving as both a custodian and research center. Through tours, programs, and partnerships, the Foundation highlights not only iconic furniture and architecture, but also the Eameses’ work across education, photography, filmmaking, and exhibitions.

At its heart, the Foundation is about connection—linking people, ideas, and institutions across generations so Charles and Ray’s work and worldview continue to have a positive impact.

About the Position

The Foundation seeks knowledgeable, engaging, and reliable on-call educators to support visitor engagement and tours at the Eames House. Ideal candidates bring a strong foundational understanding of the work and ideas of Charles and Ray Eames and the Eames Case Study House, and are able to step into tours with minimal content training.

On-call educators join a small, trusted pool and are typically scheduled one to two shifts per week, depending on staffing needs and tour bookings. This position is an excellent opportunity for college or graduate students with deep interest and knowledge in the life and work of Charles and Ray Eames.

Availability on Saturdays is strongly preferred. Scheduling can be somewhat flexible for the right candidates. Days and hours will vary.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead high-quality public and private guided tours (30–60 minutes) of the meadow, exterior of the house, and interior of the house and studio, as scheduled.
• Deliver engaging, accurate, and accessible interpretation of the Eames House, the Case Study House Program, and the work of Charles & Ray Eames to visitors of diverse backgrounds and ages.
• Assist with tour set-up and visitor check-in, supporting smooth visitor flow throughout the site.
• Answer phones as needed and provide clear, courteous information to visitors and the public.
• Engage visitors in thoughtful dialogue and respond to questions with professionalism and accuracy.
• Remind visitors of Foundation policies, including photography and site-use restrictions.
• Assist with basic site, facilities and retail oversight during shifts.
• Provide excellent customer service and contribute to a welcoming, respectful visitor experience.
• Communicate clearly and promptly with staff regarding availability, scheduling, and day-of logistics.
• Adapt to changing needs, staffing levels, and tour schedules throughout the day.
• Participate in training, briefings, and shadow tours as needed.
• Uphold institutional values of hospitality, accuracy, teamwork, and inclusivity.

Qualifications

• Demonstrated foundational knowledge of the work and ideas of Charles & Ray Eames is required. A background in design, architecture, art history, or arts education is preferred.
• Prior experience leading tours, teaching, facilitating, or presenting to groups. Excellent interpersonal and communication skills. 
• Experience in customer service, hospitality, education, or other public-facing roles.
• Demonstrated ability to interact diplomatically and professionally with the public.
• Strong public speaking and storytelling abilities.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills; enjoys engaging with new people.
• Positive, joyful, can-do attitude.
• Dependable, punctual, and flexible with scheduling; regular Saturday availability is required.
• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods and navigate indoor and outdoor environments.
• Experience working collaboratively as part of a team and sharing responsibility toward a common goal.
• Adaptable and comfortable with quick changes in workflow.
• Second language proficiency is a plus.

Physical Requirements

• Guides can expect to be both stationary/sitting and active/moving throughout the site during shifts, including standing and walking for extended periods.

Schedule & Compensation

• On-call role; hours vary week to week.
• Compensation: $18-20 per hour depending on experience

Benefits & Employment Status

This is a regular, part-time, non-exempt, non-benefited position reporting to the full-time staff team. This position is not eligible for medical benefits and does not accrue vacation time.

Hiring Process

Please submit a résumé and brief statement of interest with the subject line “Eames On-Call Educator Position” to jacob@eamesfoundation.org and copy info@eamesfoundation.org. 

Selected candidates will be invited to a first-round interview where Eames knowledge will be assessed. Finalists will meet with leadership and conduct a sample tour. No calls please.

Interviews will be conducted in January and February 2026.