PRIMARY PURPOSE OF POSITION: Through our exhibits, Exhibition Interpreters share with our visitors the history of Fort Ticonderoga, its role in the conflicts that shaped North America in the 18th century, and the rich collections the museum holds. Exhibition Interpreters will be especially important during the 250th anniversary of the American Revolution, which Fort Ticonderoga will commemorate through new exhibitions and public programs. Exhibition Interpreters are responsible for welcoming guests in exhibition spaces, providing historical background and context, and assisting guests with exhibit, program, and site orientation questions while monitoring exhibited collections. Exhibition Interpreters additionally deliver scheduled daily tours to museum visitors. All staff working in exhibit galleries must present a cheerful, friendly, and welcoming demeanor for guests. It is essential that they present an informed and enthusiastic attitude about the many educational opportunities offered at Fort Ticonderoga, including daily programs, special events, Membership, winter quarters events, and online programs. Exhibition Interpreters are the public face and voice to visitors at this historic site and act with corresponding respect and professionalism. 

INTERPRETIVE SKILLS:  Act and dress professionally.  Provide a welcoming atmosphere in the museum galleries for guests.  Perform regular inspections of exhibits to verify contents of exhibit cases and status of security hardware.  Be knowledgeable about the current gallery exhibition and able to answer guest questions about the exhibition.  Deliver information in a safe, careful and precise manner.  Work with guests in the use of materials related to the exhibition including materials geared for family and school groups.  Assist guests seeking additional information about exhibits or programs..  Build strong, positive relationships with everyone you serve.  Be fully present, fully aware, and fully available for those you serve.  Deliver daily scheduled tours of the museum’s galleries. 

COMMUNICATION SKILLS:  Welcome guests entering gallery.  Able to talk to an audience of diverse ages and backgrounds.  Clearly communicate with large groups and individuals.  Communicate effectively in verbal and written form.  Present 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.     Understand and follow the directions of the Vice President of Public History 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.  Understand and explain the use of our online collections database to visitors.  Able to apply research skills to public interpretation. 

PHYSICAL EFFORT:  Able to lift twenty-five pounds.  Able to stand and walk for an extended period (up to four hours).  Able to work in varied temperatures including heat and cold.  Manual dexterity appropriate to the interpretive requirements.  Limited amount of bending, squatting, stooping and use of stairs.

SAFETY FOR OTHERS:  Understand and follow established safety procedures.  Be able to provide basic immediate assistance to guests in the event of injury or other health concern.  Be prepared to assist in the evacuation of buildings in the event of an emergency. 

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

SALARY: Pay ranges from $15-$20 per hour, with compensation based on skill and experience. Fort Ticonderoga is an Equal Opportunity Employer. 

To apply send a letter of interest, resume, three references, and one letter of recommendation to Stuart Lilie, Vice President of Public History, Fort Ticonderoga Association at 30 Fort Ti Road, Ticonderoga, NY 12883 or e-mail slilie@fort-ticonderoga.org. Faxed applications can be sent to 518-585-2210. For more information call 518-585-6370. For additional information on Fort Ticonderoga visit www.fort-ticonderoga.org.