Guest Experience Interpreter - PT and PTFlex

Principal Function

Guest Experience Interpreters are part-time and part-time flex staff that engage Conner Prairie visitors through first-person and/or third-person interpretation to connect with inclusive and diverse stories of the past. Interpreters will provide historic and current perspectives of American history through the portrayal of 19th/20th century characters and the presentation of modern activities or events.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities

1. Performs assigned roles that consistently maintain historical accuracy and artistic integrity while portraying first-person or third-person interpretation.
2. Expected to deliver improvised dialogue and/or learn scripted historical material.
3. Engages guests through storytelling, performance and experimental learning to explore the topics of nature, science and American history with special emphasis on Indiana history.
4. Participates in themed and seasonal events in the historic experienced areas (i.e. Headless Horseman and Merry Prairie Holiday).
5. Provides outstanding guest service skills, including the willingness and ability to serve and assist guests to enhance their experience.
6. Possesses the mental and physical stamina to engage large and diverse groups of guests while working outside all day in varying weather conditions.
7. Assists with the creation and presentation of thematic interpretations that is historically researched and relevant to a modern, diverse audience.
8. Facilitates and assists with the making and selling of craft activities that correlates with historic daily operations and/or special events. (i.e. make/takes)
9. Assists in daily operations of the historic experienced areas that may include inventorying/cleaning of historic buildings, performing domestic trades (i.e. gardening, hearth cooking, and spinning/textiles), monitoring/reporting maintenance issues and completing other duties as assigned.
10. Participates in year-round programs, training, and research in collaboration with the Curatorial department.
11. Possesses the ability to work a flexible schedule, including weekends and holidays.
12. Communicates scheduling needs according to defined procedures and adheres to assigned work schedules.

Other Skills and Abilities: The following skills and abilities are either required or desired.

• Basic knowledge and understanding of American history with ongoing interest for in-depth study.
• Experience or interest in storytelling, experimental/improvisational theatre and/or museum/interpretation for young/family audiences.
• Ability to work with colleagues and guests to maintain a customer friendly and positive environment.
• Demonstration of strong vocal skills to perform for various audiences (i.e. school and community groups).
• Ability to improvise and adapt to various performance environments (i.e. outdoor stages/venues and interior theatre)
• Problem-solving skills and can work independently when needed.
• Ability to regularly and actively engage guests within a historical or modern context while adapting to guests needs.

Education and/or Experience: High school diploma or general education degree (GED); or three months related experience and/or training; or equivalent combination of education and experience. Previous experience as an interpreter is desired. Previous experience working in the museum and/or theatre industry is desired.

Supervisory Responsibilities: This position does not have supervisory responsibilities.