Job ID #31341: Interpreter/Cook/Demonstrator (Periodic) - REPOST

Hamilton Insurance Group, Ltd.; Hamilton; On-site; CAD 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A municipal cultural institution in Hamilton is looking for an Interpreter/Cook/Demonstrator to provide orientation and interpretation at Dundurn National Historic Site. The role involves cooking and baking in a period kitchen, as well as planning public programs and events for visitors of all ages. Ideal candidates should possess strong historical cooking skills and experience in visitor engagement. The position requires availability for varied shifts and a Food Handlers Certification is a plus.

Qualifications

• Experience in historical cooking and visitor interpretation.
• Ability to research and assist in planning events.
• Knowledge of cooking in a period kitchen.

Responsibilities

• Provide visitor orientation and historical interpretation.
• Cook and bake in a historic setting.
• Assist with planning public programs and events.

Skills

Historical cooking skills

Visitor interpretation

Communication skills

Knowledge of foodways

Experience with artifact handling

Tools

Microsoft Office

Traditional cooking equipment

Job description

Overview

Contribute to the City of Hamilton, one of Canada’s largest cities - home to a diverse and strong economy, an active and inclusive community, a robust cultural and dining scene, hundreds of kilometers of hiking trails and natural beauty just minutes from the downtown core, and so much more. Join our diverse team of talented and ambitious staff who embody our values of sensational service, courageous change, steadfast integrity, collective ownership and being engaged empowered employees. Help us achieve our vision of being the best place to raise a child and age successfully. #BeTheReason

• Job ID #31341: Interpreter/Cook/Demonstrator (Periodic) - REPOST
• Union: CUPE Local 5167
• Job Description ID #: 392
• Close date: Interested applicants please submit your application by 4:00 p.m. on September 24, 2025. Those who have applied need not re-apply as your application has already been considered.
• Duration: Periodic posting for all upcoming temporary full-time vacancies. Applications will be considered from September 4, 2025 - March 4, 2026.
• Internal applicants should apply with your work e-mail address. External applicants are considered only after the internal posting process has been completed. Only applicants chosen for an interview will be contacted.

Summary of Duties

Reports to the Site Supervisor of Dundurn National Historic Site. Curatorial Programming Assistant. In accordance with museums standards: Provides visitor orientation and interpretation of Dundurn National Historic Site for on and off site functions; wears period costume; interprets nineteenth century kitchen, gardens and grounds cooks and bakes in period kitchen; plans, co-ordinates and conducts period kitchen programs and demonstrates historical cooking techniques; plans and implements public and educational programs, exhibits and special events for all ages and abilities; performs clerical duties and maintains security for irreplaceable building and artifacts.

General Duties

Work as part of a team with Historic Kitchen Coordinator, Cook Demonstrators, Historical Interpreters, and other Dundurn NHS staff. Receive visitors, give tours and provide historical interpretation of the site (including Dundurn Castle, the historic kitchen garden, Dundurn Park and all associated out-buildings).

Responsible for all aspects of tours, programs and special events such as demonstrations, timing, group control, visitor and artifact safety, planning, promotion, and implementation for the site. Assist with developing and implementing public programs such as workshops, special events, educational programs, lectures, demonstrations, tours, etc. for the public including school age children, seniors, adults, special needs and special interest groups.

Develop and teach hands-on programs such as preparation of nineteenth century recipes by visitors. Following Health and Safety Legislation and Health Protection and Promotions Act. Provide interpretation and engage visitors while preparing historic recipes in the historic kitchen. Wear period costume and demonstrate the role of a nineteenth century servant/cook. Cook and bake using both traditional and modern methods and equipment.

Conducts 19th century research on recipes, traditions and equipment (foodways). Word-process correspondence, kitchen notes and educational and promotional support material. Represent the museum at off site functions. Order materials and supplies. Maintain tools and work area such as cleaning and maintenance of modern and historic kitchen and utensils. Report maintenance deficiencies. Maintain security for Dundurn Castle, historic kitchen garden, associated out buildings and artifacts. Assist with the setting up and dismantling of displays. May be required to take tickets and complete related forms. Work in accordance with the provisions of applicable Health and Safety legislation and all City of Hamilton corporate and departmental policies and procedures related to Occupational Health and Safety. Perform other duties as assigned which are directly related to the major responsibilities of the job.

Qualifications

1. Previous and recent historical cooking and interpretation experience related to duties listed above normally acquired through a combination of education and relevant work experience.
2. Demonstrated ability to provide visitor orientation and interpretation, research pertinent facts and assist in the planning and implementation of special events, programs and exhibits on and off site. Competence in specialized foodways knowledge and skills is an asset. Must possess practical knowledge and skill relating to this specific field.
3. Demonstrated ability to cook and bake in period kitchen using traditional and modern methods and equipment.
4. Must have excellent verbal and written communication skills and experience with visitors of all ages, knowledge.
5. Experience in a computerized environment. Working knowledge of Microsoft Office (Word, Excel and Outlook).
6. Due to operational requirements, the incumbent must be available to work days, nights, and weekends.
7. Food Handlers Certification an asset.
8. Experience with artifact handling an asset.

Note: As a condition of employment, the successful applicant(s) will be required to obtain a satisfactory Criminal Reference Check (Vulnerable Sector Screening), at their own expense, prior to beginning work in this position.

Disclaimer: Be advised that Human Resources frequently audits resumes of internal/external applicants to ensure/validate information provided is consistent and trustworthy. Falsification of information provided at any time throughout the recruitment process may be grounds for disqualification, and for internal applicants, subject to discipline up to and including termination.

Terms: The City is an equal opportunity employer that is committed to inclusive, barrier-free recruitment and selection processes. Consistent with our Values and Corporate Culture Pillars, the City of Hamilton is committed to providing equitable treatment to all with respect to barrier-free employment and accommodation without discrimination. The City will provide accommodation for applicants in all aspects of the hiring process, up to the point of undue hardship. If you have an accommodation need, please contact Human Resources as soon as possible to make appropriate arrangements.