Museum Interpreter

National Trust for Historic Preservation in the United States • Alexandria, VA

1d • $20 - $30

About The Position

Woodlawn & Pope-Leighey House, two sites of the National Trust for Historic Preservation, is seeking part-time Museum Interpreters to provide engaging tours two to three days per week (including one mandatory weekend day). Our expectation is that these Museum Interpreters will work up to 19 hours per week.

We are specifically looking to hire:

One Bilingual Interpreter (Fluency in Spanish or French preferred)-1 tour per week
One ASL Interpreter (Proficiency in American Sign Language required)-1-2 tours per week

The museum’s mission is to engage with our community to preserve history and care for nature at this former site of enslavement. Our programs, events, and interpretation foster racial justice, promote sustainable practices, nurture wellbeing, and contribute to community repair. Our goal is to share the full history of the site, provide historical context, and highlight the contributions of all the people who lived and worked in both houses. The site includes Woodlawn and the Pope-Leighey House designed by Frank Lloyd Wright.

Requirements

• Experience or education in African American, Indigenous, or Quaker history is a major plus; a passion for learning these histories is required.
• Exceptional public speaking skills and the ability to handle difficult or sensitive historical discussions with grace.
• Bilingual Role: High-level fluency in Spanish or French.
• ASL Role: Proficiency in American Sign Language.
• A collaborative spirit and the ability to work effectively with a diverse team.
• Ability to climb stairs and walk between historic houses in various weather conditions.
• Must be punctual and flexible.
• Availability for weekends and holidays is required.

Responsibilities

• Lead guided tours for diverse audiences, maintaining deep site knowledge to answer questions accurately and facilitate discussions.
• Deliver tours in a second language or ASL as requested, ensuring the site’s complex history is accessible to all visitors.
• Commit to independent study to deepen expertise in local history and the site’s core interpretive themes (Indigenous, enslaved, and Quaker histories).
• Perform opening/closing procedures, monitor the safety of visitors and historic objects, and assist with general site cleanliness.
• Assist with special programs, school groups, and administrative tasks (e.g., answering phones, refilling brochures, or annual collections cleaning).
• Participate in mandatory trainings and staff meetings; share feedback and research findings with the supervisor to improve tour content.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Part-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: No Education Listed