Seasonal Job Opportunities at Mount Vernon

Position:

Guest Services Staff

Department:  

Guest Services

Mount Vernon’s Guest Services department is currently hiring Seasonal/Part-time employees.  Duties may include, but are not limited to: selling tickets and annual passes; scanning tickets and greeting guests, assisting with crowd and parking control and giving directions and information as guests enter and exit the estate.  We are a tourism based organization thus weekend and holiday work is required.  During high visitation periods 40 hours/week may be required.  

Responsibilities:

Provide the first point of contact; Warmly and actively greet visitors; Ensure compliance to external  food/beverage policies; Demonstrate knowledge of daily Estate activities and resources; Accommodate needs of guests; Provide information and directional assistance; Understand the roles of other departments; provide assistance as needed; Assist in providing a safe environment for guests and employees; Clean-up designated post area throughout and at the completion of shift; Provide Guest Services support as assigned.  Extended standing and walking on uneven, unpaved surfaces in a farm-like setting required.  Uniform attire will be provided but must be maintained and worn to present a professional image.

 Qualifications:

• Excellent customer service skills 
• Outgoing, friendly, positive demeanor required
• Must be able to communicate clearly and cheerfully in English
• Ability to walk/or stand for long periods of time
• MS office suite skills preferred
• Good communication and interpersonal skills
• Must work well under pressure in a fast paced environment

Please forward a resume, cover letter and salary history/requirement by email to hrmail@mountvernon.org, by fax to 703.780.8320 or by US Mail to POB 110, Mount Vernon, VA 22121.

Mount Vernon is an Equal Opportunity Employer 

Position:

Historic Trades Interpreter 

Department:  

Historic Trades, Interpretation & Events Division

The Interpretation & Events Division provides meaningful learning opportunities for Mount Vernon’s one million annual visitors. Through a diverse portfolio of interpretive experiences, engaging public programs, and special events, we expand each guest’s understanding of and appreciation for our nation’s Founding Father.

The Department of Historic Trades, one of the Division’s six operating units, manages interpretive operations at the George Washington: Pioneer Farmer site, George Washington’s Distillery & Gristmill, and the Blacksmith Shop.  The Department also supports several special student and guest programs.

Responsibilities:

Division-wide Principles:
A. Exceed guest expectations – be friendly, respectful, engaging, and flexible. Always remember that this visit may be their first and only.
B. Encourage a meaningful appreciation of George Washington – keep him first and use his unparalleled legacy of character and leadership to inspire.
C. Engage yourself in the mission of the Mount Vernon Ladies’ Association – take responsibility for your continued development and commit to collaboration.  Care for your colleagues and be proud of what we accomplish together.

Position-specific Responsibilities:

1. Create a positive learning environment for guests of all ages and backgrounds by being hospitable, approachable, and professional in all guest interactions.
2. Provide guests with accurate, interesting, and pertinent historical information about George Washington and Mount Vernon in an engaging, timely, and articulate manner. Answer guest questions and tailor delivery techniques to maximize impact whenever possible. Follow departmental interpretive strategies in order to effectively integrate your interpretation into the total guest learning experience.
3. Develop and perform demonstrations of 18th-century trades and crafts (including milling, distilling, blacksmithing, farming, cooking, spinning and weaving, among others), in order to produce an immersive experience and effectively exhibit Washington’s entrepreneurship, innovation, and self-sufficiency. 
4. Assist the daily manager/lead interpreter with the opening, closing, cleaning, and maintenance of relevant sites. Operate machinery and handle tools and equipment in a safe and appropriate manner.  Assist with the implementation of emergency procedures when necessary to ensure safety for guests and staff.
5. Actively grow your knowledge of Washington’s plantation and 18th-century trades and crafts in order to continually enhance your interpretive ability.      
6. Assist with special tours, student programs, and other projects as needed.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills required
• Must work well with a diverse audience and have a sincere interest in history
• Must be responsible, flexible, punctual, able to lift 50lbs., and perform all manner of physical labor
• Ability to work creatively and effectively as a member of a team is mandatory  

Special Requirements:

• Must be able to stand/walk for long periods on varying surfaces, inside and outside, and in a variety of conditions
• Must comply with: departmental dress code (period dress) and departmental standard operating procedures
• Must work frequent weekends, evenings, and holidays

Please forward a resume, cover letter and salary history/requirement to Steve Bashore, Manager Historic Trades at 703-799-6805 or by e-mail to either sbashore@mountvernon.org or hrmail@mountvernon.org, by fax to 703.780.8320 or by US Mail to POB 110, Mount Vernon, VA 22121.

Mount Vernon is an Equal Opportunity Employer