What are the responsibilities and job description for the Historic Park and Barnyard Docent/Interpreter position at Burritt on the Mountain?
Job Title: Historic Park and Barnyard Interpreter at history museum (Part-time)
Organization: Burritt on the Mountain
Reports To: Historic Park Manager
Hours: Average 20 hours per week
Position Summary
The Historic Park and Barnyard Interpreter is a key member of the Burritt Historic Park team, responsible for the care of our barnyard animals, maintaining the barnyard and surrounding areas, and engaging with visitors through interactive demonstrations and conversations about animals, historic park houses and other structures. This is a physically demanding position that requires a passion for history, animals, and outdoor work.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
· Animal Care and Barnyard Maintenance
o Provide care for barnyard animals, including feeding, watering, monitoring health and cleaning enclosures, including removal of manure.
o Assist with animal husbandry tasks such as grooming, hoof trimming, and minor medical care (under supervision).
o Maintain clean and safe enclosures for all animals including minor repair work.
· Visitor Interaction and Historical Interpretation
o Engage with visitors through interactive demonstrations and conversations about 19th-century farm life.
o Share knowledge of animal breeds, husbandry practices, and the role of animals in 19th-century life.
o Share knowledge of the historic structures that are onsite and the history of the families associated with these structures.
o Learn and demonstrate traditional farm skills, such as blacksmithing, woodworking, spinning, or weaving (training provided).
o Participate in living history demonstrations, portraying 19th-century farm life.
o Research and develop engaging and accurate historical presentations.
o Conduct tours of the barnyard and historic park and participate in special events.
o Assist the Education department during field trips and other children’s group presentations.
o Answer visitor questions accurately and enthusiastically.
· Other Duties as Assigned:
o Assist with other duties as assigned, including assisting with special events, maintaining historic park grounds, and supporting other departments.
Qualifications
· Required:
o Passion for animals and a strong interest in history, particularly 19th-century farm life
o Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
o Ability to work independently and as part of a team
o Physical fitness and ability to perform strenuous physical labor, including:
o Walking over rough terrain
o Climbing steps and ladders
o Lifting up to 50 pounds
o Ability to work outdoors in all weather conditions
o Availability to work weekends and holidays, as needed
o Ability to speak English fluently
o Applicants must be 19 years of age and older.
o High school diploma or GED is required, some college is preferred.
o This position requires a background check.
· Preferred:
o Experience working with farm animals
o Knowledge of animal husbandry practices
o Experience in gardening or landscaping
o Experience in historical interpretation or living history
o Basic knowledge of 19th-century farm tools and equipment
o Customer Service experience and/or public speaking skills
Wages and Benefits
· Wage of $13.25 per hour
· Participation in the Retirement Systems of Alabama (RSA) pension plan
· Museum membership for employee and immediate family in household
· Employee discounts
· Employee Assistance Program
· Employee Wellness Center
Burritt on the Mountain is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all applicants for employment. Accordingly, all terms and conditions of employment will be carried out without regard to race, color, religion or creed, national origin or ancestry, sex (including pregnancy, sexual orientation, or gender identity), age (40 or older), status as an individual with a physical or mental disability, veteran status, genetic information, and citizenship, or any other factor protected by federal, state, or local law.
Job Type: Part-time
Pay: $13.25 per hour
Expected hours: 14 – 25 per week
Benefits:
- Employee assistance program
- Employee discount
- Retirement plan
Schedule:
- Day shift
- Holidays
- Monday to Friday
- Weekends as needed
Application Question(s):
- Explain why you feel you are a good candidate for this job and what aspect of this job appeals most to you.
If you are applying from an area that is more than a 45 minute commute, please let us know if you have plans to relocate to our area or why you are interested in a part time position in our area.
Ability to Relocate:
- Huntsville, AL 35801: Relocate before starting work (Required)
Work Location: In person
Salary : $13
