Interpreter

William & Mary; Virginia (IL); On-site; USD 18,000 - 25,000; Part time

Job summary

William & Mary is seeking interpreters for James Monroe’s Highland to deliver engaging historic interpretation to visitors and school groups. You will guide tours, share content about Highland and its era, and support special events and programs.

The role emphasizes strong speaking and interpersonal skills, with a commitment to inclusive storytelling of colonial and early national America. Non-exempt hourly position with potential overtime.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or equivalent.
• Historical knowledge of the colonial and early national periods of American history.
• Knowledge of basic teaching methods.
• Strong interpersonal and oral communication skills, with the ability to provide excellent visitor services.
• Commitment to sharing inclusive historical narratives.
• Previous engagement with study and presentation of American history, teaching at any level.
• Previous work experience interacting with the public.

Responsibilities

• Provide guided content to group tours (student and adult), teaching about Highland and the historical period.
• Provide additional information about the house and grounds, as needed.
• Assist with special events and public programs.

Skills

Verbal communication

Interpersonal skills

Public speaking

Education

High School Diploma or equivalent

Job description

Job Requisition:JR102006 Interpreter (Open)Job Posting Title:InterpreterDepartment:CC00009 WM001 | PRES | James Monroe's Highland OperationsJob Family:Staff - MuseumWorker Sub Type:Wage-Continuing (non-benefited)Job Requisition Primary Location:JM_Museum ShopPrimary Job Posting Location:Posting Location - James Monroe’s HighlandJob Description Summary:The Interpreters at James Monroe’s Highland are the front-line teachers of the site’s message about Highland. Interpreters' main duties are providing historic interpretation to members of the visiting public, to school groups, and during special events. Successful candidates will have enthusiasm for connecting with historic site visitors, strong verbal communication skills and a willingness to master relevant knowledge of the colonial and early national periods of American history.Job Description:Highland, as a public history arm of William & Mary, is committed to thoughtful and inclusive public engagement in the pursuit of history that serves broad and overlapping communities.The Interpreters at James Monroe’s Highland are the front-line teachers of the site’s message about Highland. Interpreters provide informal engagement to the visiting public as they view self-guided exhibits, as well as guided history walks during peak season.Other responsibilities include:• Provide guided content to group tours (student and adult), teaching about Highland and the historical period.• Provide additional information about the house and grounds, as needed.• Assist with special events and public programs.Additional Job Description:Required Qualifications:High School Diploma or equivalent.Historical knowledge of the colonial and early national periods of American history.Knowledge of basic teaching methods.Strong interpersonal and oral communication skills, with the ability to provide excellent visitor services.Commitment to sharing inclusive historical narratives.Previous engagement with study and presentation of American history, teaching at any level.Previous work experience interacting with the public.Conditions of Employment:This is a non-exempt position, which may be eligible to receive overtime in accordance with the Fair Labor Standards Act .All hourly employees are subject to the limitations of the Virginia Manpower Control Program and total hours worked may not exceed, on average, 29 hours per week, over the course of a twelve-month period beginning May 1 each year.This position is restricted based on the availability of funding.Base Pay is $15.50 an hr.Job Profile:JP0154 - Tour Guide - Nonexempt - Hourly - H01Qualifications:Pay Rate Type:HourlyCompensation Grade:H01Recruiting Start Date:2026-08-20Position Restrictions:EEO is the Law. Applicants can learn more about William & Mary’s status as an equal opportunity employer by viewing the "Know Your Rights" poster published by the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission. https:// www.eeoc.gov/know-your-rights-workplace-discrimination-illegalBackground Check: William & Mary is committed to providing a safe campus community. W&M conducts background investigations for applicants being considered for employment. Background investigations include reference checks, a criminal history record check, and when appropriate, a financial (credit) report or driving history check.Remote Work Disclaimer: Remote work eligibility is not guaranteed and is subject to approval. Employee eligibility depends on the likelihood of the employee succeeding in a remote work arrangement and the supervisor’s ability to manage remote workers. Departments and/or Human Resources may amend, alter, change, delete, or modify eligibility.