School and Youth Program Facilitator

Open To External And Internal Candidates • Williamsburg, VA

7d • Onsite

About The Position

Facilitators guide school groups through Colonial Williamsburg’s educational programs, ensuring well organized, engaging, and meaningful visits. Facilitators serve as the primary point of contact for school groups during their program, managing schedules, coordinating transitions between historic sites and trade shops, and supporting program learning objectives. This role focuses on delivering high-quality, inquiry-based experiences that spark curiosity and encourage students to think critically about American history and its relevance today. Facilitators help create a welcoming, interactive environment that supports student participation, critical thinking, and a positive overall program experience.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent education, experience, and training.
• 2–3 years of experience working with students or youth in educational, recreational, or program-based settings, including leading groups in structured activities.
• Familiarity with managing schedules and group logistics in dynamic environments.
• Ability to confidently lead and manage large student groups while maintaining engagement and effective program flow.
• Skill in facilitating inquiry-based discussions that encourage participation, curiosity, and critical thinking.
• Understanding of American history, particularly Colonial, Virginian, and Williamsburg history, or the willingness to learn and apply historical content accurately.
• Comfort with adapting to changing schedules, varying group needs, and outdoor working conditions.
• Clear and effective communication with students, teachers, and colleagues.
• Ability to collaborate as part of a dynamic team to deliver consistent, high-quality programs.
• A positive, professional demeanor that reflects enthusiasm and respect in all interactions.
• Willingness to continue learning, develop new skills, and participate in ongoing training.

Nice To Haves

• Classroom teaching experience at any grade level.
• Previous museum/historic site experience.
• Previous experience as a tour guide or in leading group tours.
• Demonstrated passion for history, particularly American history, Virginian history, and/or Williamsburg history.
• Experience in performing arts (such as theater, music, or public speaking) is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Deliver high quality school programs to assigned school groups on site, guiding groups through scheduled program activities and locations within the Colonial Williamsburg Historic area.
• Ensure smooth transitions between sites and maintain adherence to program timelines.
• Communicate clearly with teachers and chaperones regarding schedules and expectations.
• Facilitate student engagement through inquiry-based discussions using Colonial Williamsburg's Historic Area and collections to encourage participation and critical thinking with students.
• Use age-appropriate language and techniques to make historical content accessible and interesting.
• Create an environment where students feel comfortable asking questions and sharing ideas.
• Ensure program quality by providing teacher and student feedback to help create the best possible school program.
• Maintain consistency in program delivery and ensure that all activities align with established learning objectives and programmatic outlines/goals.
• Monitor group movement to ensure safety and compliance with site policies.
• Respond appropriately to emergencies or unexpected situations and assist with managing group behavior in a positive and professional manner.
• Collaborate with Historic Trades, Historic Area Interpretation, Rare Breeds, Archaeology, and other departments to support effective program delivery and maintain positive working relationships.
• Communicate with the Associate Director of School and Youth Programs to address scheduling, operational, or program-related issues.
• Participate in and attend all required training sessions and team meetings to support program effectiveness.

Benefits

• The compensation listed below for this position represents the anticipated hiring range and is provided in accordance with Virginia pay transparency requirements. Actual compensation will be determined based on factors such as the selected candidate’s skills, qualifications, experience, education, certifications, internal equity, and the specific requirements of the role. Range: $20-$31 an hr

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: Associate degree