Visitor Services & Interpretation Associate

Position Overview

Part-Time Visitor Services & Interpretation Associate

Edward W. Kane and Martha J. Wallace Center for Black History at the Wanton-Lyman-Hazard House, Newport Historical Society

Hourly rate: $20/hour

"The Edward W. Kane and Martha J. Wallace Center for Black History engages, inspires, and educates about Newport's relationship with the African diaspora."

Our multidisciplinary and community scholarship and programming tells the story of Black history in Newport from the earliest arrival of African-descended peoples in Newport, to the period of Newport's role as the Center of the colonial and American slave trade, through the present-day descendant community.

Associates play a vital role in bringing this mission to life each day.

The Newport Historical Society is a nonprofit dedicated to preserving the rich history of Newport County. Our six treasured properties and extensive collections, featuring manuscripts, decorative arts, and photographs, span five centuries. We engage the community and make history more accessible through tours, educational programs, a museum, and a library.

Founded in 1854, the purpose of the Newport Historical Society is to collect, document and preserve Newport’s unique contribution to our national narrative over the course of five centuries. Our continuing mission is to chronicle, advocate for the importance of, and communicate this history to a broad audience, so that knowledge of our past will contribute to a deeper understanding of the present and better preparation for the future.

• Shifts generally fall between 9:30 AM and 5:00 PM
• Weekends and some holidays required
• In-person position at the Edward W. Kane and Martha J. Wallace Center for Black History at the Wanton-Lyman-Hazard House in Newport, RI

• Serve as the first point of contact for visitors, creating a welcoming and respectful environment
• Process ticket sales, admissions, and retail transactions using point-of-sale systems
• Answer phone inquiries and respond to general questions about exhibitions, programming, and tours
• Open and close the Center following established procedures
• Maintain organized retail and front desk areas
• Monitor gallery and historic spaces to ensure visitor safety and the preservation of the site

• Actively interpret exhibitions and historic spaces for visitors of diverse backgrounds and ages
• Facilitate thoughtful conversations about Newport’s Black history and its broader national and global context
• Answer visitor questions with historical accuracy, clarity, and sensitivity
• Adapt interpretive approaches for individuals, families, school groups, and community audiences
• Assist with public programs, lectures, performances, school visits, and special events hosted at the Center, helping with setup, visitor flow, and engagement as needed
• Support interpretation of the Center’s outdoor backyard space as an extension of the visitor experience. Encourage visitors to explore the outdoor space and communicate its connection to the Center’s mission and programming

Associates are expected to balance operational responsibilities with interpretive presence on the floor throughout their shifts.

• Strong interpersonal and communication skills with a welcoming, service-oriented mindset
• Comfort discussing complex historical topics, including slavery, race, and memory
• Ability to facilitate respectful dialogue in a public setting
• Interest in African diaspora history, public history, museum studies, or related fields preferred
• Experience in museums, cultural institutions, education, or customer service is a plus
• Comfortable using digital ticketing and point-of-sale systems
• Reliable, self-motivated, and able to work independently
• Ability to stand for extended periods, navigate stairs, and lift up to 20 pounds
• Professional appearance and adherence to Newport Historical Society policies

This position requires both hospitality and intellectual engagement. Associates must be able to shift seamlessly between handling transactions and facilitating meaningful…