History Interpreter

George Washington's Mount Vernon; Mount Vernon (VA); On-site; USD 17,047 - 24,280; Part time

Benefits offered by this job

403(b) retirement plan with employer matching

Employee recognition at 5 years of service

Discount on public event tickets

Free parking

Job summary

A historic site organization in Virginia is seeking part-time guides to provide engaging tours and educational experiences at the historic Mansion. Applicants should have excellent interpersonal skills, a flexible schedule, and a passion for history. Responsibilities include presenting historical information to guests and assisting in the daily operations of the site. This role also requires weekend and holiday availability, contributing to an enriching experience for the millions who visit each year.

Qualifications

• Must work well with a diverse audience and have genuine interest in history.
• Responsible, punctual, and able to perform under pressure.
• Ability to stand or walk for long periods in various conditions.

Responsibilities

• Create a positive learning atmosphere for guests.
• Provide guests with engaging historical information.
• Assist with daily operations and security of the Mansion and Tomb.

Skills

Interpersonal skills

Communication skills

Flexibility

Teamwork

Job description

Overview

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. They provide the historical framework that educates guests on George Washington and the world he transformed, promoting reflection about our past and its connection to today, encouraging visitors to take positive action in their own communities.

Compensation

$15.00 per hour.

Expected Hours

• Part‑time: 2 weekdays and alternating weekends (21–24 hours per week).
• Must be able to work weekends and holidays.

Responsibilities

• Create a positive learning environment for guests of all ages and backgrounds by being hospitable, approachable, and professional.
• Provide guests with accurate, interesting, and relevant historical information about George Washington and Mount Vernon in an engaging, timely, and articulate manner.
• Follow departmental interpretive strategies to integrate your interpretation into the total guest‑learning experience.
• Assist Interpretive Supervisors with daily opening, closing, and security of the Mansion and Tomb, monitoring and protecting historic structures and collections.
• Assist with implementation of emergency procedures to ensure safety for guests, colleagues, historic structures, and collections.
• Assist with special tours, programs, and other projects as needed.

Minimum Qualifications

• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
• Works well with a diverse audience and has a sincere interest in history.
• Responsible, flexible, punctual, and able to work well under pressure.
• Ability to work creatively and effectively as part of a team.

Special Requirements

• Must be able to stand or walk for long periods on varying surfaces, inside and outside, and in various conditions.
• Must comply with comprehensive dress code for uniformed staff and 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 via 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’s qualifications and requirements.

Division‑Wide Principles

The Education and Guest Services team is composed of the Interpretation, Historic Trades, Guest Services, and Learning Departments. It includes more than 150 full‑ and part‑time staff members who connect Mount Vernon’s mission to a variety of audiences.

• Exceed audience learning expectations and ensure a level of access in which everyone is welcome.
• Encourage a meaningful appreciation of George Washington and the world in which he lived, ensuring 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.

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.
• 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.