Historic Interpreter A, MPHR

Open To External And Internal Candidates • Williamsburg, VA

1d • Onsite

About The Position

Historic Interpreters – A MPHR work primarily as interpreters in different sites and assignments across the Historic Area to explain 1) the processes used to investigate, document, understand, preserve, and furnish historic sites and 2) the complex history of Williamsburg and Virginia at sites undergoing preservation or investigation as assigned.

Requirements

• Four-year degree in American History or relevant/related area of study and 1-2 years of equivalent work experience in the areas of museums/living history, interpretation, teaching, customer service, public contact, or other area of related work employing comparable skills.
• Must be comfortable learning and sharing the history of 18th – 20th century world relevant to Williamsburg, Colonial Virginia, British-American colonies, Eastern Woodlands American Indians, West Africa, and the British Empire with the ability to synthesize information for our audience and explain modern research and investigative techniques used in understanding the material culture of the past.
• Must be capable of presenting a complete, inclusive, accurate, and sophisticated historical narrative that incorporates the diversity of Williamsburg's 300+ year history - including sensitive topics such as race, gender and sexual diversity, slavery, and religion.
• Must be reliable, punctual, and flexible to last-minute changes.
• Must demonstrate ability to: (1) organize, memorize and present information in verbal and written form to diverse groups in a meaningful and relevant interpretation; (2) gather information through research, study, and staff training; (3) present and maintain a welcoming and enthusiastic demeanor with guests and colleagues; (4) develop specialized and multi-faceted skills through on-the-job training to interpret sensitive topics with guests; (5) adapt to a changing work environment; (6) work independently of direct supervision and take initiative while working within set procedures; (7) work collaboratively with colleagues, contractors, and others to foster a positive work environment; (8) initiate conversations with guests and anticipate their needs, questions and problems; (9) resolve customer service issues independently while working within set procedures; (10) deliver interpretations to large or small audiences.
• Must demonstrate ability to: (1) work in all job-related work sites in varying weather conditions, including extreme summer heat and cold, and to come in daily contact with pollen and dust; (2) meet physical requirements of the position (3) remain standing for extended periods of time.
• Must demonstrate ability to: (1) use Foundation computers and other Colonial Williamsburg approved media devices.

Responsibilities

• Enhance the guest experience by orienting guests to the town and preparing them for a variety of experiences; checking admission tickets; arranging orderly entry to sites; assisting with the use of mobile ticketing and other digital resources; and recommending opportunities that fit guests' interests.
• Use modern interpretive techniques to explain the processes used to research, document, understand, preserve, and furnish our sites and the complex history of 18th-20th century Williamsburg and Virginia through formal interpretation, tours, and casual conversation. Interpreters present a complete, inclusive, accurate and sophisticated story that will inspire guests to learn more.
• Understand operational procedures, tour mechanics, and the preservation of collections, artifacts, buildings, and objects.
• Cultivate a deeper understanding of the past and modern investigative processes and techniques by participating in content training, skills development, and conducting research on topics relevant to the history of Williamsburg.
• When researching and developing interpretations, Historic Interpreters - A MPHR use credible research and resources to ensure an inclusive approach their work, and that all scholarship, interpretations, and other materials produced consider multiple perspectives.
• Historic Interpreters MPHR employ digital technology by maintaining personal time sheets, tracking schedule and assignment changes, and staying current with work related email and policy/procedure updates. Additionally, they assist guests with navigating our digital resources.
• Historic Interpreters MPHR support their colleagues across the Foundation to foster a positive workplace community, create the best guest experiences, and act as good stewards of the Foundation’s resources.
• Historic Interpreters MPHR observe all safety and security procedures to ensure the safety of colleagues and guests.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level