Job Listing: American Indian Interpreter

Colonial Williamsburg – Williamsburg, VA

Closes - Open until closed

Position Title –  American Indian Interpreter

Salary - Range

Job Type - Regular Full-Time 37.5+hrs per week

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Summary Job Description

Represent American Indian peoples of the 18th and 21st century in interpretive programming throughout the museum. Interact with guests in a variety of settings and create informative, dynamic, and inspiring experiences that spark insight and understanding of our past and present to fulfill the mission of Colonial Williamsburg, "That the Future May Learn From the Past".

Essential Functions

1. Depict how American Indian peoples participated in the Williamsburg community in the 18th century with historical                integrity and stewardship

2. Regularly and actively engage with guests at their own level to make subject matter relevant

3. Research and analyze primary and secondary sources to gain an extensive, in-depth knowledge and understanding of          the American Indian communities and people being represented, and well-rounded context of 18th century Williamsburg      and American history

4. Create and present pro-active, thematic interpretations that are rooted in historical research and relevant to a modern,        diverse audience

5. Represent the American Indian Initiative for purposes of community outreach

6. Develop, practice, and refine traditional skills associated with American Indian activity and utilize them in engaging                  interpretations with guests

7. Contribute as an active member of an ensemble to create dynamic, inspiring, educational experiences for guests and a          healthy and positive work environment for staff

8. Work collaboratively with the entire staff of Colonial Williamsburg to create an exceptional and seamless experience that      gives guests the sense of 18th century Williamsburg and inspires them to be thoughtful and active participants in their          own communities

9. Perform with positivity, flexibility, and resiliency in a changing work environment

Education and Experience

Required: Community affiliation with an American Indian tribe, band, pueblo, ranchero, or urban Indian Center. Combination of education and experience comparable to three years of experience in historical interpretation, teaching, language revitalization, or cultural content gained through community membership in an American Indian band, tribe, pueblo, ranchero, or urban Indian Center.

Preferred: Training or experience in museum interpretation, storytelling, or customer/guest relations. Traditional American Indian lifeways skills.

Qualifications

* Cultural competency with modern and historical American Indian subject matter

* Ability to synthesize cultural or community information (i.e. linguistics or indigenous skills) with historic information, and     organize and present information verbally to diverse audiences

* Ability to present information on sensitive issues

* Excellent interpersonal skills and ability to work collaboratively with colleagues

* Ability to provide excellent guest service

* Ability to engage with diverse tribal groups while representing Colonial Williamsburg and the American Indian Initiative

* Ability to work independently and take initiative within guidelines and procedures and also take direction and notes             when given

* Ability to think critically regarding storytelling and educating, and continually improving performance

* Ability to work a flexible schedule including weekends and holidays