What are the responsibilities and job description for the Blacksmith Demonstrator / Instructor (Part-Time) position at Rocky Mount State Historic Site?
Blacksmith Demonstrator & Instructor (Part-Time, As-Needed)
Forge history in fire and iron! Rocky Mount State Historic Site is seeking a skilled Blacksmith Demonstrator to bring 18th-century metalworking to life for visitors, students, and special event guests.
This part-time, as-needed role is ideal for an artisan passionate about traditional blacksmithing and hands-on education. You will demonstrate live blacksmithing at special events, assist with school group visits, and lead occasional workshops and classes for visitors eager to learn this historic trade.
Job Highlights
- Flexible, as-needed schedule – Work primarily during special events (such as Woolly Day and Harvest Festival), school group visits, and hands-on blacksmithing classes.
- Engaging hands-on demonstrations – Showcase 18th-century blacksmithing techniques and interact with visitors of all ages.
- Opportunity to teach – Lead small group classes where visitors can experience forging under your guidance.
- Historic setting – Work in an authentic outdoor forge at Rocky Mount.
Responsibilities
- Conduct live blacksmithing demonstrations at events, engaging with visitors and students.
- Teach basic blacksmithing techniques in scheduled classes, ensuring a safe and informative experience.
- Provide historical context about the role of blacksmithing in 18th-century daily life.
- Maintain safety protocols when handling fire, tools, and hot metal.
- Assist with school group programs, ensuring an interactive, educational experience for young learners.
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience in blacksmithing or metalworking (historical experience preferred but not required).
- Comfortable working in front of an audience and engaging with children and families.
- Knowledge of or willingness to learn 18th-century blacksmithing techniques and historical context.
- Ability to teach beginner-level forging classes.
- Comfortable working outdoors in a forge setting.
- Ability to lift and handle blacksmithing tools and materials.
- Flexible availability for weekend events, occasional weekday school programs, and scheduled blacksmithing workshops.
Compensation & Perks
- Starting at $13-$15 per hour, based on experience.
- Opportunities for additional earnings through leading blacksmithing classes.
- Support in preserving and passing down traditional skills.
- Free admission to Rocky Mount events and programs.
Salary : $13 - $15
