In support of Fort Ticonderoga’s commitment to preserve and educate, Artificer Interpreters educate visitors at Fort Ticonderoga using 18th-century mechanical arts and military skills. Artificer Interpreters must have proficiency in their trade and an eagerness to continue building their skills, applying them to the interpretive goals each season at Fort Ticonderoga. Artificer Interpreters are full-time seasonal interpreters whose skills are an important part of the experience of visitors and other interpreters at Fort Ticonderoga. Artificer Interpreters must be eager students and teachers of their trade; able to teach other interpreters aspects of their mechanical art. Artificer Interpreters use their skills both to educate visitors about their trade, but also to meet the material needs of Public History at Fort Ticonderoga. These historically-clothed interpreters are the public face and voice to visitors at this historic site and act with corresponding respect and professionalism. They should be vigilant sentinels of site stewardship and visitor safety while educating a wide variety of visitors through interpretive programs.

INTERPRETIVE SKILLS

• Required to act and dress accurately out of respect of the historical individuals they portray.
• Apply and interpret their mechanical trade within the season’s specific interpretive topic.
• Able to interpret and practice both their own and a variety of other 18th-century mechanical skills.
• Able to cope with a variety of weather conditions using 18th-clothing and skills.

COMMUNICATION SKILLS

• Able to talk to an audience of diverse age and backgrounds.
• Clearly communicate with large groups and individuals.
• Communicate effectively in verbal and written form.
• Presents a professional image with regards to Fort Ticonderoga in all media.
• Able to communicate culturally or politically sensitive information with respect and tact.
• Work with other members of the interpretive staff.
• Teach and supervise other interpretive staff in their trade.
• Understand and follow the directions of the Director of Interpretation and all supervising staff.

RESEARCH SKILLS

• Able to read and comprehend both primary and secondary historical sources.
• Able to learn and utilize research techniques including transcription and artifact annotation.
• Able to apply research skills to public interpretation.

PHYSICAL EFFORT

• Able to lift fifty pounds.
• Able to stand and walk for an extended period (up four for hours).
• Able to be outdoors in a variety of weather conditions.
• Manual dexterity appropriate to the interpretive requirements.

SAFETY FOR OTHERS

• Required to safely demonstrate, use, and maintain a variety of 18th-century muskets.
• Required to safely demonstrate, use, and maintain 18th-century cannons.
• Required to safely demonstrate, use, and maintain 18th-century tools.
• Uphold the highest standards of black powder safety.

SCHEDULE

The normal working hours for this position will be determined with weekend, evening, holiday and overnight work required on a scheduled basis.

SALARY

Pay ranges from $16-$20 per hour, with compensation based on skill and experience.

REQUIRED DOCUMENTS WITH APPLICATION

Letter of interest, resume, three references, and one letter of recommendation.

Apply online below. If a physical application is requested, please call 518-585-2821.

Fort Ticonderoga is an Equal Opportunity Employer.