Interpretive Supervisor

Interpretive Supervisor

Full‑time, Non‑Exempt. Funded through 2029.

The Education and Guest Services (EG&S) Division provides meaningful learning opportunities for Mount Vernon’s one million annual onsite visitors and students in classrooms around the country. Through a diverse portfolio of interpretive experiences, engaging programs, and online resources, we expand each learner’s understanding of and appreciation for George Washington and the revolutionary world in which he lived. The Interpretation Department provides access for guests to the history and expertise at George Washington’s Mount Vernon.

With experts in interpretation, this department can connect current scholarship to a wide range of visitors and groups, utilizing both innovative and traditional techniques. The Department of History Interpretation offers Mansion, Grounds, VIP, and Specialty tours and staffs the Tomb and African American Burial Ground. Interpretations are delivered using third‑person methodologies. The Department consists of 5 full‑time and approximately 75 part‑time staff.

This position is a funded position expected to last through 2029.

$19.00/hour

40 hours/week, to include rotating weekends

• Coordinate daily interpretive operations at the Mansion, Washington’s Tomb, and around the historic area in order to ensure high‑quality learning opportunities in a safe and friendly environment. Actively observe daily interpretations and report any quality issues and inconsistencies to departmental leadership. Monitor interpreter attendance and give morning briefings to ensure proper information sharing. Distribute schedules, make necessary adjustments, and evaluate adherence to the schedule.
  
  Work closely with Guest Services personnel to minimize wait times at the Mansion. Respond to guest issues as needed. Keep managers informed of all abnormalities of daily operations and maintain strong channels of communication.
• Assist departmental leadership with maintaining a positive work environment, encouraging morale, and providing staff with the tools necessary to succeed. Participate in daily coaching as needed and provide managers with any relevant information about employee performance in a timely manner.
• Facilitate the daily opening, closing, and security of the Mansion and Tomb. Make certain that essential Mansion posts are staffed appropriately. Implement emergency procedures when necessary. Report any incidents and/or concerns related to the safety of our guests, staff, historic structures, and collections to departmental leadership in a timely manner.
• Assist the Manager of History Interpretation with departmental planning and scheduling as needed.
• Research, develop, train, coach, and deliver programming on religion, religious freedom, George Washington’s religious practices and beliefs, and his role in establishing the precedent for religious freedom in the American Constitution.
• Perform History Interpreter duties when needed. Be a model for other interpreters.

• Previous interpretive experience with a proven talent for performing formally and informally in a variety of settings and conditions is a prerequisite.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills are required.
• Must work well with a diverse audience and have a sincere interest in history.
• Must be responsible, flexible, punctual, and able to work well under pressure.
• The ability to work creatively and effectively as a member of a team is mandatory.

This position involves working in both indoor museum settings and outdoor historic grounds. The role requires frequent interaction with visitors and groups in varying weather conditions. The noise level can fluctuate from quiet to moderate.

This role requires extended periods of standing and walking, including over uneven terrain. The employee may need to climb stairs or inclines and occasionally lift or carry materials weighing up to 25 pounds. Clear verbal communication and auditory ability are essential.

• Exceed audience learning expectations and ensure a level of access in which everyone is…