JOB ANNOUNCEMENT POSTING

INTERPRETER I – HISTORIC FORT SNELLING & SIBLEY HOUSE

 

The Minnesota Historical Society’s Historic Fort Snelling & Sibley House historic sites seek Interpreter I applicants to provide educational and recreational services to visitors, and to assist in the operation of both historic sites.  This is a part-time, regular position (520 annual hours) located at both historic sites in St. Paul, MN.

Summary of work: Responsibilities include: 1) receives, welcomes and orients visitors to the historic site or assigned workstation; 2) communicates historical information using multiple interpretive techniques; 3) coordinates history workshops, tours, and programs for school groups; 4) studies site-related historical materials to enhance the delivery of site’s interpretive program; 5) assists in the maintenance and protection of the historic site grounds, facility and collections; 6) compiles with Historic Fort Snelling/Sibley House and MHS personnel policies and procedures; 7) performs sales and admission services; and 8) contributes to a positive work attitude within the historic site by working cooperatively with others and conduct oneself as a team player.

Minimum Qualifications:

  • Strong oral communications and interpretive skills and ability to listen to the public and be responsive to inquires and comments.
  • Ability and motivation to study historical reference materials and complete training programs and examination plus to apply learned techniques to job related tasks.
  • Public relation skills in working with a diverse public, including children, teachers, senior citizens, and professional staff.
  • Capability and willingness to authentically portray assigned 1820s period character roles through the use of costume, grooming, mannerism and living history presentations.
  • Physical strength, stamina and coordination to perform maintenance tasks and military drill.  Must be able to lift 50 lbs, walk up to 5 miles a day and stand for long periods.
  • Must be able to attend mandatory training days in April and May plus be able and willing to work rotating schedules or varying hours (0 – 35 per week) from April through October.

Desirable Qualifications:

  • College coursework in US History, education, or a related field.
  • Working knowledge of the history of Fort Snelling, Sibley Site, and military or civilian life plus demonstrated ability in successfully applying correct interpretive methods in working with the public.
  • Ability to use a variety of historic tools and equipment including: black powder firearms, fireplace cooking equipment, carpentry tools, shovels, axes, picks, sewing tools, and blacksmithing tools.
  • Base working knowledge of proper sales, electronic cash register and accounting procedures in gift shop, Sutler store, and ticket sales areas.

 

Salary:  $12.69 hourly minimum.

Application Deadline:  Must be received or post-marked no later than February 4, 2010.

To Apply:  Send an MHS application, cover letter, resume, and Historic Fort Snelling/Sibley House to:  Historic Fort Snelling, Attention: Site Supervisors, 200 Tower Ave, St Paul, MN 55111.  For an MHS application and Historic Fort Snelling/Sibley House supplemental application, see our website at www.mnhs.org/about/jobs or call MHS Job Line 651-296-0542.  EEO