Historical Interpreter

About Whitney Plantation

The Whitney Institute (Whitney Plantation) is a nonprofit 501(c)3 with a mission to educate the public about the history and legacies of slavery in the United States. Located on the site of a former sugar, rice and indigo plantation in St. John the Baptist Parish, Whitney Plantation maintains 20 original and relocated historical buildings within the Whitney Plantation Historic District. Through memorials, artwork, exhibits, tours and special programming, Whitney Plantation helps the public understand the present day by educating them about the past.

About the Role

Historical Interpreters are key members of the Operations Team within the Visitor Services Department at Whitney Plantation. They provide guided tours for general admission visitors, school groups, historical societies, and other interest groups. These interpreters work in rotating shifts, stationed at various sites on the grounds to answer questions and provide additional information for guests using the audio tour.

Nature of the Job

The role involves conducting outdoor tours for large groups of people. This job requires walking and standing for 90 minutes in various weather conditions (cold, hot, or rain) on gravel grounds, sleek concrete, and climbing stairs. Historical Interpreters must have deep working knowledge and memory of complex topics, be able to answer questions from the visitor/public, and have strong abilities to hear, see, speak, and walk. Historical Interpreters are required to give between 2-3 tours per day, accounting for up to 4.5 hours standing, walking, and talking over the course of a 6-hour shift.

This entry-level position offers training on tour topics and delivery mechanics. Interpreters greet the public, assess the interests and needs of groups, lead tours with tailored information, and answer a wide range of questions about artifacts and historical facts. They must use judgment and tact in dealing with visitors engaging in unsafe, destructive, or disruptive behaviors, explaining ground rules and safety precautions as needed.

Historical Interpreters also serve as essential for the safety of the site, responsible for reporting theft, damage to artifacts or property, and injuries. Poor customer service can negatively impact tourism, making the role crucial in representing the Operations Department, the site, and the community.

Responsibilities and Duties

• Deliver 90-minute guided walking tours to the general public about the history of the plantation at least twice per day
• Work at interpreter stations on the grounds, responding to questions from guests and helping to guide them in their experience
• Continuous learning about the discussed on the tour; reading subject material and participation in ongoing training
• Performing routine groundskeeping and periodically checking buildings and grounds to ensure artifacts are present and in good condition.
• Light cleaning to maintain the historic areas and artifacts, keeping them presentable for visitors.

Other duties as assigned by the Visitor Services Manager and Visitor Services Assistant Manager

Requirements and Skills

• High School Diploma; prior educational experience about slavery, Louisiana history, or African American history is beneficial.
• Excellent verbal communication and interpersonal skills (extravert with a balance of introvert mannerisms)
• Prior experience delivering historical tours is a benefit but not required
• Demonstrated knowledge about or interest in African American history.
• Demonstrated ability of excelling in a team environment
• Ability to work a flexible schedule, including evenings, weekends, holidays, and in critical situations as required, as well as the character to be punctual and reliable.
• Knowledge of and interest in African American history
• Ability to communicate with a diverse staff and public in a manner that is respectful and kind, with an emphasis on a desire to assist from an informed perspective

Emergency Preparedness

Assist the Operations Team with communications and preparation for emergencies.

Salary and Benefits

• $17 per hour / (Full Time)32-40 hours per week (Part Time) Less than 30 hours per week
• Health, dental, and vision insurance (Full Time Only)
• 401k with employer match. (Full Time Only)
• Employee Assistance Program. (Full Time and Part Time)
• Generous paid time off benefits to include paid holidays, sick and vacation time. EOE (Full Time Only)

EOE (Full Time Only)

Whitney Plantation is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, creed, gender, religion, age, sexual orientation or any other condition made lawful by federal and state laws.

Job Types: Full-time, Part-time

Pay: From $17.00 per hour

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Employee discount
• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Parental leave
• Professional development assistance
• Vision insurance

Work Location: In person