Cultural Site Interpreter

The Trustees of Reservations•Stockbridge, MA

8d•$17 - $19•Onsite

About The Position

Who We Are: Founded in 1891 by a group of visionary volunteers, The Trustees of Reservations (The Trustees) is the nation’s premier conservation and preservation organization. The Trustees’ preserves, for public use and enjoyment, properties of exceptional scenic, historic, and ecological value in Massachusetts. Our properties are open to all, and we thrive by involving as many people as possible in all that we do. We aim to protect special places for future generations to enjoy in perpetuity, and have helped protect more than 50,000 acres, including 27,000+ acres on more than 120 reservations that are open to the public. As a non-profit conservation organization, we are funded and supported entirely by our visitors, supporters, volunteers, and our 100,000 Member households. We encourage you to learn more about The Trustees on our website, www.thetrustees.org . Your Impact : As a Seasonal Interpreter, you will play an important role in our mission to educate and engage visitors in the rich histories of our historic sites. This work is primarily at Naumkeag, a Gilded Age “summer cottage” with 8-acres of formal gardens, with additional opportunities at The Colonel John Ashley House (Sheffield), The Mission House (Stockbridge) and The William Cullen Bryant Homestead (Cummington). The Role : This role involves leading tours and educational programs that connect visitors to our special places while providing exceptional customer service to enhance the guest experience. Ideal candidates will have a strong interest in history, architecture, and/or garden design, with the ability to connect with a wide range of audiences.

Requirements

Excellent conversational and public speaking skills
Background in teaching, museums, customer service, theater, horticulture, or another relevant field
High school diploma or equivalent preferred; further education in history, theater arts, education, museum studies, or a related field a plus
Awareness of and sensitivity to the complex histories associated with some sites, and a willingness to engage meaningfully on painful topics like slavery and the forced removal of Native Peoples from our region
Professional and team-oriented demeaner
Ability to climb stairs, walk across uneven or hilly terrain, and stand throughout the day
Reliable transportation and commitment to the position, the team, and The Trustees’ mission
Comfort working outdoors in variable weather conditions
Current authorization to work in the United States – a candidate must have such authorization by their first day of employment.
A satisfactory criminal background (CORI) check.

Responsibilities

Engage visitors in meaningful discussions about each site’s unique history through formal and informal interpretation, including leading guided tours, providing context, and sharing interesting anecdotes to help guests connect to our special places in a manner that is captivating and accessible to diverse audiences.
Provide excellent customer service by welcoming and orienting visitors, acting as an ambassador for the site and The Trustees, providing general information, answering questions, and ensuring a positive guest experience.
Participate in trainings that provide professional skill development in site-specific content, interpretive philosophies, and museum best practices, as well as continuing education through self-directed research and ongoing study of the history and cultural context of the site.
Promote the mission of The Trustees and encourage guests to join as members in preserving special places across Massachusetts.
Collaborate with staff and volunteers to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for guests

Benefits

Sick Time: 40 hours of paid sick time upfront.
Reciprocity: Employees have access to free and discounted admission and membership to more than 50 nearby museums and cultural institutions.
Discounts: Enjoy free entry to all Trustees properties, discount event tickets, and discounted merchandise at our stores and on stays at our inns.

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