History Interpreter

History Interpreter

Part-Time

Background:

The Education and Guest Services Division provides meaningful learning opportunities for Mount Vernon’s one million annual onsite visitors and students in classrooms around the country. Through a diverse portfolio of interpretive experiences, engaging programs, and online resources, we expand each learner’s understanding of, and appreciation for, George Washington and the revolutionary world in which he lived.

Introduction:

George Washington’s Mount Vernon is seeking part-time guides to provide tours through the Historic Mansion, staff the Washington Family Tomb, and lead specialty tours as a History Interpreter.  History Interpreters work individually and within a team to educate Mount Vernon’s 1.1 million annual guests on how George Washington shaped the world in an age of revolutionary change.

History interpreters provide the historical framework that educates guests on George Washington and the world he transformed.  These tours promote reflection about our past and its connection to today by using engaging and positive guest experiences that also aim to encourage our visitors to take positive action within their own communities.  Our interpretations take the contradictions and the promise of Washington’s revolutionary world head-on by confronting slavery and both his successes and failures within the context of trying to build a ‘more perfect union.’

Compensation:

$15.00/hour

Expected Hours:

• Part-Time – must be able to work 2 weekdays and alternating weekends (21-24 hours/week)
• Must be able to work weekends and holidays

Position-specific Responsibilities:

• Create a positive learning environment for guests of all ages and backgrounds by being hospitable, approachable, and professional in appearance and demeanor
• Provide guests with accurate, interesting, and pertinent historical information about George Washington and Mount Vernon in an engaging, timely, and articulate manner
• Follow departmental interpretive strategies in order to effectively integrate your interpretation into the total guest learning experience
• Assist the Interpretive Supervisors with the daily opening, closing, and security of the Mansion and Tomb. Actively monitor and protect assigned positions in and around the Mansion and report any incidents and/or concerns related to historic structures and the collections held within
• Assist the Interpretive Supervisors with the implementation of emergency procedures when necessary to ensure safety for our guests, colleagues, historic structures, and collections
• Assist with special tours, programs, and other projects as needed

Minimum Qualifications:

• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills required
• Must work well with a diverse audience and have a sincere interest in history
• Must be responsible, flexible, punctual, and able to work well under pressure
• Ability to work creatively and effectively as a member of a team is mandatory

Special Requirements:

• Must be able to stand/walk for long periods on varying surfaces, inside and outside, and in a variety of conditions
• Must comply with: comprehensive dress code for uniformed staff; departmental standard operating procedures
• Must work frequent weekends, evenings, and holidays
• Must maintain internal Guest Experience Accreditation: 1 meeting credit; 1 field trip credit; 2 content credits

How to Apply:
Use our online application system to apply for the position. Applicants may also choose to apply using Indeed.

Please be prepared to submit a cover letter and resume. Cover letters should specifically address qualifications and/or transferable skills related to the position qualifications and requirements.   

Division-Wide Principles:

The Education and Guest Services team is composed of the Interpretation, Historic Trades, Guest Services, and Learning Departments. In sum total this group is comprised of more than 150 full- and part-time staff members who connect Mount Vernon’s mission to a variety of audiences using onsite and offsite programming and physical and digital projects.

1. Exceed audience learning expectations and ensure a level of access in which everyone is welcome. Be friendly, respectful, engaging, and flexible. Always remember that this visit may be their first and only.
2. Encourage a meaningful appreciation of George Washington and the world in which he lived.  Ensure that his legacies connect to the world our audiences live in today. 
3. Engage yourself in the mission of the Mount Vernon Ladies’ Association – take responsibility for your continued development and commit to collaboration. Care for your colleagues and be proud of what we accomplish together.

Work Environment:

This position involves working in both indoor museum settings and outdoor historic grounds. The role requires frequent interaction with visitors and groups in varying weather conditions. The noise level can fluctuate from quiet to moderate.

Physical Requirements:

This role requires extended periods of standing and walking, including over uneven terrain. The employee may need to climb stairs or inclines and occasionally lift or carry materials weighing up to 25 pounds. Clear verbal communication and auditory ability are essential.

Benefits:

• 403(b) Retirement plan with employer matching
• Employee recognition at 5 years of service
• Monthly employee events
• Employee referral program
• Flexible work schedule
• On-site Library
• Discount on Public Event Tickets
• Discount in the Mount Vernon Shops
• Discount at the Mount Vernon Inn and The General’s Canteen
• Free parking

Mount Vernon is dedicated to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. As an Equal Opportunity Employer, we are committed to building and retaining a team that represents a variety of skills, experiences and perspectives.  All employment decisions are based on business needs, job requirements, performance, and qualifications without regard to race, religion or belief, national or ethnic origin, gender/sex (including pregnancy), age, physical, mental or sensory disability, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, marital or domestic partnership status, veteran and military status, family or parental status, or any other status protected under federal, state, or local law. Mount Vernon will not tolerate discrimination or harassment based on any of these characteristics.