Cultural Site Interpreter

Who We Are:

Founded in 1891 by a group of visionary volunteers, The Trustees of Reservations (The Trustees) is the nation’s premier conservation and preservation organization. The Trustees’ preserves, for public use and enjoyment, properties of exceptional scenic, historic, and ecological value in Massachusetts. Our properties are open to all, and we thrive by involving as many people as possible in all that we do.

We aim to protect special places for future generations to enjoy in perpetuity, and have helped protect more than 50,000 acres, including 27,000+ acres on more than 120 reservations that are open to the public. As a non‑profit conservation organization, we are funded and supported entirely by our visitors, supporters, volunteers, and our 100,000 Member households. We encourage you to learn more about The Trustees on our website,(Use the "Apply for this Job" box below)..

Salary/Hourly Rate: $17-$19/hour

Hours per week: 14-28

Job Classification:
Nonexempt, Limited Term

Duration:
April-September

Job Type: Onsite

Location:

Naumkeag, Stockbridge, MA

Your Impact:

As a Seasonal Interpreter, you will play an important role in our mission to educate and engage visitors in the rich histories of our historic sites. This work is primarily at Naumkeag, a Gilded Age “summer cottage” with 8‑acres of formal gardens, with additional opportunities at The Colonel John Ashley House (Sheffield), The Mission House (Stockbridge) and The William Cullen Bryant Homestead (Cummington).

The Role:

This role involves leading tours and educational programs that connect visitors to our special places while providing exceptional customer service to enhance the guest experience. Ideal candidates will have a strong interest in history, architecture, and/or garden design, with the ability to connect with a wide range of audiences.

Specifically, you’ll:

• Engage visitors in meaningful discussions about each site’s unique history through formal and informal interpretation, including leading guided tours, providing context, and sharing interesting anecdotes to help guests connect to our special places in a manner that is captivating and accessible to diverse audiences.
• Provide excellent customer service by welcoming and orienting visitors, acting as an ambassador for the site and The Trustees, providing general information, answering questions, and ensuring a positive guest experience.
• Participate in trainings that provide professional skill development in site‑specific content, interpretive philosophies, and museum best practices, as well as continuing education through self‑directed research and ongoing study of the history and cultural context of the site.
• Promote the mission of The Trustees and encourage guests to join as members in preserving special places across Massachusetts.
• Collaborate with staff and volunteers to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for guests.

Skills and Experience:

• Excellent conversational and public speaking skills
• Background in teaching, museums, customer service, theater, horticulture, or another relevant field
• High school diploma or equivalent preferred; further education in history, theater arts, education, museum studies, or a related field a plus
• Awareness of and sensitivity to the complex histories associated with some sites, and a willingness to engage meaningfully on painful topics like slavery and the forced removal of Native Peoples from our region
• Professional and team‑oriented demeanor
• Ability to climb stairs, walk across uneven or hilly terrain, and stand throughout the day
• Reliable transportation and commitment to the position, the team, and The Trustees’ mission
• Comfort working outdoors in variable weather conditions

Eligibility Criteria:

• Current authorization to work in the United States – a candidate must have such authorization by their first day of employment.
• A satisfactory criminal background (CORI) check.

Don’t quite have all the skills and experience listed above? We still want to hear from you! Research shows that historically marginalized groups are less likely to apply if they do not meet every single requirement. We are committed to building a diverse team and encourage you to…