Description:

Woodlawn Manor Cultural Park, part of the Montgomery Parks system, is seeking several part-time Museum Program Aides to assist park patrons in the Visitor Center and lead guided tours. Woodlawn Manor Cultural Park (WMCP) offers programming focused on the Underground Railroad, 19th century African American communities, Quaker Heritage, and 19th century agricultural life.

Museum Program Aides conduct guided hikes, tours and help with programs for a wide range of audiences. Additionally, Museum Program Aides work in the Visitor Center providing professional and knowledgeable customer service for phone calls, emails, and onsite park patrons.

Candidates must have experience or a strong interest in museum interpretation, educational programming, public speaking, and/or U.S. History. Successful candidates will be a strong communicator, self-starter, show a willingness to take direction, be team player and have interest in education, either in a classroom or informal environment. Knowledge of 19th century American history, historical/museum interpretation and a second language are ideal.

Examples of Important Duties

• Conduct onsite/in-person guided hikes and tours for families, community groups and schools visiting the Underground Railroad Experience Trail, historic Manor House and grounds, and the Woodlawn Museum using interpretive materials provided by Woodlawn Manor Cultural Park.
• Work in the Visitor Center (April – November). Open/close public buildings, answer park patron questions and provide direction, check-in program attendees, ring up admissions and gift shop sales.
• Assist in maintaining the Visitor Center and public spaces. Restock brochures, merchandise, and restrooms. Assist with merchandise research, pricing and displays. As needed, assist with cleaning and sanitation of restrooms and other public areas.
• As needed, assist with development, delivery, set-up/breakdown for onsite, offsite, or virtual programming.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Ideal candidates should be pursuing or have earned a college degree in American History, Public History, Museum Studies, Education, or a related field.
• Experience Working in a historical, tourism, educational or cultural setting.
• Experience conducting tours, programs, or activities in a museum, park, or classroom setting.
• Proven ability to excel in verbal communication, attention to detail, flexibility to multitask and maintain stability under pressure.
• Demonstrated commitment to customer service, inclusion, diversity, equity, and access.
• Bi-lingual skills (English/Spanish especially) are a plus.

Minimum Qualifications:

• High school diploma or GED
• One year of related experience or an equivalent combination of education and experience
• Valid driver’s license, or the ability to acquire one
• Ability and enthusiasm for customer service and public speaking
• Knowledge and willingness to learn about American history and lifeways

Supplemental Information

Work Schedule:

As needed, based on scheduled programming and museum hours. Primarily April – November, Friday – Sunday 9 am – 5 pm, occasional evenings. Availability two weekend days a month is required. Additional availability weekdays a plus.

Work Conditions:

• Ability to regularly work onsite/in person with staff, volunteers, and the public.
• Ability to regularly walk 3 miles outdoors on a wooded, natural surface hiking trail and fields in a variety of weather conditions.
• Ability to regularly move between the museum, visitor center, historic buildings, and grounds.
• Ability to lift and carry boxes weighing up 50 lbs.
• Use of multiple technical equipment and software applications is required
• Ability to provide regular transportation to work. No public transportation to the work site.

Supplemental Information:

• This year-round, part time position does not qualify for benefits
• Salary is based on experience. A complete background check will be completed prior to hire