Job ID #32256: Historical Interpreter - Whitehern (PERIODIC)

Contribute to the City of Hamilton, one of Canada’s largest cities - home to a diverse and strong economy, an active and inclusive community, a robust cultural and dining scene, hundreds of kilometers of hiking trails and natural beauty just minutes from the downtown core, and so much more. Join our diverse team of talented and ambitious staff who embody our values of sensational service, courageous change, steadfast integrity, collective ownership and being engaged empowered employees. Help us achieve our vision of being the best place to raise a child and age successfully. #BeTheReason

• Job ID #32256: Historical Interpreter - Whitehern (PERIODIC)
• Union: CUPE Local 5167
• Job Description ID #: 797
• Close date: Interested applicants please submit your application online at by 4:00 p.m. on October 21, 2026
• Duration: Periodic posting for all upcoming temporary part-time vacancies. Applications will be considered from October 15, 2026 - April 15, 2027.
• Vacancy type:  This posting will be used to fill current vacancies, as well as any further vacancies which arise during the period noted above
• Internal applicants should apply with your work e-mail address . External applicants are considered only after the internal posting process has been completed. Only applicants chosen for an interview will be contacted.
  

SUMMARY OF DUTIES

Reports to the Site Supervisor at Whitehern. In accordance with museum standards, provides visitor orientation and interpretation. Creates and delivers educational and public programs and events; conducts research; performs administrative and security functions.

GENERAL DUTIES

Provide meaningful interpretation to the general public. Assist in development and implementation of public programs, special events or other activations in the community (both in person and digital). Strive to create experiences that are relevant, thought-provoking, inclusive of multiple perspectives, emotionally intelligent and fun.

Receive and answer visitor inquiries.

Responsible for aspects of tours and programs such as adhering to time schedules, group control, supplies and artifact safety.

Research tours, programs and special events; write reports.

Set-up and dismantle displays, program material and equipment.

Operate audio-visual equipment.

Evaluate programs and recommend changes.

Wear period costume.

Represent the Museum at off-site functions.

Works with staff, volunteers, and community members to expand accessibility and welcome new and diverse audiences.

Assists with handling and relocation of artefacts for exhibition, research and cataloguing purposes under the direction of the Conservator and Curator of Collections.

Assists in monitoring and securing of building and collection. Responsible for visitor safety; ensures those visitors who enter, leave.

Assist with the setting up and dismantling program material, equipment and special events

Opens and closes cash register, sells tickets and merchandise, and maintains associated records.

Perform light cleaning as required such as dusting shelves, cleaning tables, vacuuming, sweeping and mopping floors.

Work in accordance with the provisions of applicable Health and Safety legislation and all City of Hamilton corporate and departmental policies and procedures related to Occupational Health and Safety.

Perform other duties as assigned which are directly related to the major responsibilities of the job.

QUALIFICATIONS

1. Recent museum interpretation, teaching, public programming, and/or customer service experience related to duties listed above.
   
2. Must have excellent verbal and written communication and presentation skills; must be able to communicate with groups of mixed ages, cultures, and abilities, and with different levels of interest and knowledge.
   
3. Proven ability to provide interpretation of an historic site and artefact collections, with a focus on the visitor experience and safety.
   
4. Ability to research and assist in the planning and co-ordination of interpretation and public programs. Awareness of current best practices is an asset.
   
5. Post-secondary education in museum studies, museum management, teaching, history, or engineering an asset.
   
6. Experience in a computerized environment with working knowledge of Word, Excel, Publisher, and Microsoft Outlook; graphic design, photo and video editing, and social media skills are an asset.
   
7. Must possess initiative, good judgment and the ability to work independently, provide guidance and take leadership role when necessary.
   
8. Experience with artefact handling an asset.
   
9. Must be available to work days, nights and weekends.
   

SALARY: Grade E

NOTE 1: As a condition of employment, the successful applicant(s) will be required to obtain a satisfactory Criminal Reference Check (Vulnerable Sector Screening), at their own expense, prior to beginning work in this position.

NOTE 2:
This position may be required to work nights and weekends, as well as staggered work hours to meet operational needs.

Disclaimer:

Be advised that Human Resources frequently audits resumes of internal/external applicants to ensure/validate information provided is consistent and trustworthy. Falsification of information provided at any time throughout the recruitment process may be grounds for disqualification, and for internal applicants, subject to discipline up to and including termination.

Terms:

The City is an equal opportunity employer that is committed to inclusive, barrier-free recruitment and selection processes. Consistent with our Values and Corporate Culture Pillars, the City of Hamilton is committed to providing equitable treatment to all with respect to barrier-free employment and accommodation without discrimination. The City will provide accommodation for applicants in all aspects of the hiring process, up to the point of undue hardship. If you have an accommodation need, please contact Human Resources as soon as possible to make appropriate arrangements.