Tour Guide - Nantucket Campus

ABOUT THE MUSEUM OF AFRICAN AMERICAN HISTORY

The Museum of African American History, founded in 1967, is New England’s largest museum dedicated to preserving, conserving, and interpreting the contributions of African Americans. With locations in Beacon Hill and Nantucket Island, and two Black Heritage Trails®, the museum tells the story of organized black communities from the Colonial Period through the 19th century.

POSITION SUMMARY

The Museum of African American History is seeking a full-time Tour Guide to join our team. Reporting to the Boston Site Manager, this role is ideal for individuals passionate about storytelling, meeting diverse audiences, and sharing the rich history of African Americans. The successful candidate will be reliable, gracious, and enjoy interacting with the public. Responsibilities include providing general admission tours, conducting special programs for school groups, and assisting with opening and closing procedures. Compensation is $25/hr with housing for the season on Nantucket or $30/hour without housing.

ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Conduct interpretive tours and programs for museum visitors, including general admissions, school groups, corporate groups, and dignitaries.
• Serve as a subject matter expert on African American history, facilitating engaging and interactive tours.
• Collaborate to develop and implement interpretive programs for school groups.
• Provide accurate and engaging information about the location's history, significance, and interesting facts.
• Ensure the safety and well-being of tour participants throughout the tour.
• Answer questions and provide assistance to guests during the tour.
• Maintain a professional and friendly demeanor at all times.
• Adapt tour content and delivery based on the needs and interests of the group.
• Manage time effectively to ensure timely departure and arrival at each destination.
• Coordinate with other staff members to ensure smooth operation of tours.
• Participating with opening and closing procedures of the Museum.
• Participate in off-site museum programing as needed.

DESIRED SKILLS & ABILITIES

Qualifications:

• Previous experience in customer service or hospitality role.
• Strong communication skills with the ability to educate and entertain guests.
• Knowledge in African American history, especially in 18th and 19th century America.
• Excellent public speaking skills with the ability to engage a diverse audience.
• Leadership qualities to guide and manage groups effectively.
• Time management skills to ensure punctuality and adherence to tour schedules.
• High School Diploma with some college coursework in African American studies, American history, communications, social science, humanities, or related field is preferred.
• Bilingual or multilingual abilities are a plus.

Requirements:

• Ability to work weekends, holidays, and evenings as required.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and Adobe software.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Willingness to perform additional assigned functions as needed.
• Professional communication skills with staff, visitors, and stakeholders.
• Ability to lift and carry items weighing up to 15 lbs.
• Ability to escort tour groups through multi-floor, multi-site facilities.