Associate Interpreter

Description

GENERAL STATEMENT OF JOB

This is the first of two positions in the Historical Interpreter series. The Associate Historical Interpreter will assist the Historical Interpreter with leading tours of Fort Defiance, the Smith Trahern Mansion, the L&N Train Depot, and other related historical sites. Also, this position will aid through research and writing interpretive material in interpreting the daily lives of Civil War soldiers, Clarksvillians, and other county residents during the early to mid-1800's and the effect the Civil War had upon them (economic, social, religious, cultural, etc.).

The position will require the ability to share this information using a variety of methods, including, but not limited to, demonstrations, lectures, publications, hands-on activities, and coordination with others such as the use of volunteers and Friends groups. The Associate Historical Interpreter will also assist with the daily operation of the Historical Properties and park sites.

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* PLEASE NOTE:

THIS POSITION MAY REQUIRE BEING OUTSIDE IN THE HEAT OR COLD FOR EXTENDED PERIODS OF TIME, POSSIBLY WHILE IN COSTUME/PERIOD DRESS. THIS POSITION WILL REMAIN OPEN THROUGH FEBRAURY 26, 2026, OR UNTIL FILLED.***

SPECIFIC DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Essential Functions:

• Provides assistance in finding and compiling accurate and detailed research of historical events related to Department Historical sites, the Civil War, and area history in Clarksville.

• Assists with preparing final interpretation scripts for the public.

• Develops and delivers public programs, including tours and special events, in collaboration with the Historical Interpreter.

• Assists with community outreach and partnership development with local groups, schools, and oganizations; attends various community meetings as needed.

• Greets and assists visitors through the center and at the site, conducting tours as needed through the center, the fort, and other nearby historical landmarks (sometimes in period clothing and dress).

• Assists in promoting events and programs through social media, outreach, and marketing efforts in coordination with the Historical Interpreter and marketing team.

• Performs administrative duties including, but not limited to, researching, and documenting historical information relevant to the site; handling and processing money and records, and ordering supplies as needed; gathering and analyzing visitor feedback to suggest improvement for programs and tours; and opening and closing of facility as needed.

• Keeps accurate records and prepares detailed reports.

• Supoorts the recruitment, training, and management of volunteers, ensuring they are prepared and effective during programs and events.

• Helps maintain and operate technology used for tours and exhibits, such as audio guides and digital displays.

• Performs other administrative, maintenance, and custodial duties as assigned.

• Performs other duties of a similar nature or level.

MINIMUM EDUCATION AND TRAINING

Education and Experience

• Associate's degree in History, Education or a related field.

• An equivalent combination of education and experience sufficient to perform the job's essential duties.

License and Certifications

• Possession of a valid driver's license

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS AND STANDARDS REQUIRED

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

Knowledge of:

• Interpretive center administration and center maintenance requirements

• Historical sites/interpretive centers ethics and practices

• Tennessee and Civil War History

• Educational standards, programs, and trends.

• History, customs, and significance of cultural sites and exhibits

• Effective grant writing experience.

Skill in:

• Effective grant writing experience

• Strong research skills

• Implementing short and long-range goals.

• Communicating effectively, both orally and in writing, including speaking to groups

• Establishing and maintaining effective working relationships (co-workers, employees of other city departments and volunteers, staffs of other Civil War sites and Centers)

• Computer skills

• Communication, interpersonal skills as applied to interaction with subordinates, coworkers, supervisor, the public, etc.…