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Historic Trades Interpreter
Job Location:
Job Location:
Mount Vernon, OH - USA
Monthly Salary:
Not provided by the employer
Monthly Salary:
Posted:
13 May 2026 (30+ days ago)
Posted:
Application Deadline:
30 August 2026
Application Deadline:
Vacancies:
1 Vacancy
Vacancies:
Job Summary
Historic Trades Interpreter
Part-time
Introduction:
The Education and Guest Services Division provides meaningful learning opportunities for Mount Vernons one million annual onsite visitors and students in classrooms around the country. Through a diverse portfolio of interpretive experiences engaging programs and online resources we expand each learners understanding of and appreciation for George Washington and the revolutionary world in which he lived.
The Department of Historic Trades one of Guest Experiencesoperating units manages interpretive operations at the Pioneer Farm George Washingtons Distillery & Gristmill and the Blacksmith Shop. The Department also supports several special student and guest programs.
Ready to learn a trade at Mount Vernon
Compensation:
$15.00/hour
Expected Hours:
2 Weekdays and Every other Weekend (24 hours/week)
Responsibilities:
- Create a positive learning environment for guests of all ages and backgrounds by being hospitable approachable and professional in all guest interactions
- Provide guests with accurate interesting and pertinent historical information about George Washington and Mount Vernon in an engaging timely and articulate manner. Answer guest questions and tailor delivery techniques to maximize impact whenever possible. Follow departmental interpretive strategies in order to effectively integrate your interpretation into the total guest learning experience
- Develop and perform demonstrations of 18th-century trades and crafts as requested (including milling distilling blacksmithing farming cooking spinning and weaving among others; only those with proven proficiency) in order to produce an immersive experience and effectively exhibit Washingtons entrepreneurship innovation and self-sufficiency
- Assist the daily manager/lead interpreter with the opening closing cleaning and maintenance of relevant sites. Operate machinery and handle tools and equipment in a safe and appropriate manner.
- Assist with the implementation of emergency procedures when necessary to ensure safety for guests and staff
- Actively grow your knowledge of Washingtons plantation and 18th-century trades and crafts in order to continually enhance your interpretive ability
- Assist with special tours student programs and other projects as needed
Minimum Qualifications:
- Excellent interpersonal and communication skills required
- Must work well with a diverse audience and have a sincere interest in history
- Must be responsible flexible punctual able to lift 50lbs. and perform all manner of physical labor
- Ability to work creatively and effectively as a member of a team is mandatory
Special Requirements:
- Must be able to stand/walk for long periods on varying surfaces inside and outside and in a variety of conditions
- Must comply with: departmental dress code (period dress); departmental standard operating procedures
- Must work frequent weekends evenings and holidays
How to Apply:
Use our online application system to apply for the position. Applicants may also choose to apply using Indeed.
Please be prepared to submit a cover letter and resume. Cover letters should specifically address qualifications and/or transferable skills related to the position qualifications and requirements.
Application Review will begin in February.
Division-Wide Principles:
The Education and Guest Services team is composed of the Interpretation Historic Trades Guest Services and Learning sum total this group is comprised of more than 150 full- and part-time staff members who connect Mount Vernons mission to a variety of audiences using onsite and offsite programming and physical and digital projects.
- Exceed audience learning expectations and ensure a level of access in which everyone is welcome. Be friendly respectful engaging and flexible. Always remember that this visit may be their first and only.
- Encourage a meaningful appreciation of George Washington and the world in which he lived. Ensure that his legacies connect to the world our audiences live in today.
- Engage yourself in the mission of the Mount Vernon Ladies Association take responsibility for your continued development and commit to collaboration. Care for your colleagues and be proud of what we accomplish together.
Benefits:
- 403(b) Retirement plan with employer matching
- Employee recognition at 5 years of service
- Monthly employee events
- Employee referral program
- Flexible work schedule
- On-site Library
- Discount on Public Event Tickets
- Discount in the Mount Vernon Shops
- Discount at the Mount Vernon Inn and The Generals Canteen
- Free parking
Mount Vernon is dedicated to creating an inclusive environment for all an Equal Opportunity Employer we are committed to building and retaining a team that represents a variety of skills experiences and perspectives. All employment decisions are based on business needs job requirements performance and qualifications without regard to race religion or belief national or ethnic origin gender/sex (including pregnancy) age physical mental or sensory disability sexual orientation gender identity and/or expression marital or domestic partnership status veteran and military status family or parental status or any other status protected under federal state or local law. Mount Vernon will not tolerate discrimination or harassment based on any of these characteristics.
About Company
George Washington’s Mount Vernon is the historic home of George and Martha Washington, located 13 miles south of Washington, DC. Guests can see the historic mansion, stately rooms, and outbuildings preserved to the year 1799, the last year of George Washington’s life. Owned and operat ... View more
