Encampment Interpreter

George Washington's Mount Vernon; Mount Vernon (VA); On-site; USD 20,664; Part time

Benefits offered by this job

403(b) Retirement plan with employer matching

Employee recognition at 5 years of service

Monthly employee events

Job summary

A premier historical site in Virginia seeks an Encampment Interpreter to engage and educate guests about Revolutionary War history. The role is part-time, with responsibilities including providing accurate historical information, assisting with the opening and closing of the Encampment, and creating an inviting atmosphere for diverse visitors. Ideal candidates should possess strong communication skills and a passion for military history, complemented by interpersonal abilities and teamwork skills.

Qualifications

• Must be able to work with a diverse audience.
• Punctual, flexible, and responsible under pressure.
• Ability to stand/move on uneven surfaces for long periods.

Responsibilities

• Create a positive learning environment for guests.
• Provide accurate historical information in an engaging manner.
• Assist with daily opening and closing of the Encampment.

Skills

Interpersonal skills

Communication skills

Teamwork

Interest in military history

Education

Bachelor’s degree (preferred)

Job description

Encampment Interpreter

Part‑Time, Non‑Exempt

Background

The Education and Guest Services (EG&S) 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.

The Department of Education Administration (EdAdmin), one of Education and Guest Services’ operating units, manages special projects and cross‑division programming. In 2025, the EdAdmin group will launch the Revolutionary War Encampment, a new experience that will be a core part of Mount Vernon’s America250 programming.

Compensation

$15.00/hour

Expected Hours

21‑24 Hours/week with 2 weekdays and every other weekend.

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 everyday life in Revolutionary War encampments and 18th‑century military history in an engaging, timely, and articulate manner.
• Follow departmental interpretive strategies in order to effectively integrate your interpretation into the larger learning experience of guests.
• Assist the Encampment Interpretive Supervisors with daily opening, closing, and security of the Encampment.
• Assist the Encampment Interpretive Supervisors with implementing emergency procedures when necessary to ensure the safety of guests, colleagues, historic structures, and collections.
• Assist with special tours, programs, and other projects as needed.

Qualifications and Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree preferred, but not required.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills are required.
• Must be able to work with a diverse audience and have a sincere interest in military history.
• Must be punctual, flexible, responsible, and able to work well under pressure.
• Ability to work creatively and effectively as a member of a team is essential.

Special Requirements

• The successful candidate must be able to:
• Stand/move on steep and uneven surfaces outside for long periods and in various conditions. Work responsibilities include some areas that are non‑ADA accessible.
• Comply with department dress code (period dress and office attire) and division‑wide managerial standards.
• Lift and move up to 50lbs.
• Adhere to department training standards and operational procedures.
• Be available to work frequent weekends, evenings, and holidays.

How to Apply

Use our online application system to apply for the position.

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

Division‑Wide Principles

• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• 403(b) Retirement plan with employer matching
• Employee recognition at 5 years of service
• Monthly employee events
• Employee referral program
• On‑site Library
• Discount on Public Event Tickets
• Discount in the Mount Vernon Shops
• Discount at the Mount Vernon Inn and Food Court Pavilion
• 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.