Job ID #32255: Interpreter/Cook/Demonstrator (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 #32255: Interpreter/Cook/Demonstrator (PERIODIC)
• Union: CUPE Local 5167
• Job Description ID #: 392
• 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- Dundurn National Historic Site. In accordance with museum standards, provides visitor orientation and interpretation for Dundurn National Historic Site (including Dundurn Castle, Dundurn Park and all related outbuildings). Creates and delivers educational and public programs and events; conducts research. This position wears period costume; interprets nineteenth century kitchen, gardens and grounds; cooks and bakes in period kitchen; plans, co-ordinates and conducts period kitchen programs while demonstrating historical cooking techniques

GENERAL DUTIES

Work as part of a team with Historic Kitchen Coordinator, Cook and Garden Demonstrators, Historical Interpreters, and other Dundurn NHS staff.

Provide meaningful interpretation to the 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.

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

Responsible for visitor safety; ensures those visitors who enter, leave.

Required to wear period costume and demonstrate the role of a nineteenth century person.

Provide interpretation and engage visitors while preparing historic recipes in the historic kitchen.

Cook and bake using both traditional and modern methods and equipment.

Conducts 19th century research on recipes, traditions and equipment (foodways).

Word-process correspondence, kitchen notes and educational and promotional support material.

Perform required cleaning for working in a kitchen where food is prepared and served to the public. This includes dusting shelves, cleaning tables, vacuuming, sweeping and mopping floors.

Maintain tools and work area such as cleaning and maintenance of modern and historic kitchen and utensils.

Represent the museum at off-site functions.

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

Report maintenance deficiencies.

Maintain security for Dundurn Castle, historic kitchen garden, associated out buildings and artifacts.

May be required to take tickets and complete related forms.

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. Previous and recent historical cooking and interpretation experience related to duties listed above normally acquired through a combination of education and relevant work experience.
   
2. Demonstrated ability to provide visitor orientation and interpretation, research pertinent facts and assist in the planning and implementation of special events, programs and exhibits on and off site. Competence in specialized foodways knowledge and skills is an asset. Must possess practical knowledge and skill relating to this specific field.
   
3. Demonstrated ability to cook and bake in period kitchen using traditional and modern methods and equipment.
   
4. Must have excellent verbal and written communication skills and experience with visitors of all ages, knowledge and
   
5. Experience in a computerized environment. Working knowledge of Microsoft Office (Word, Excel and Outlook).
   
6. Due to operational requirements, the incumbent must be available to work days, nights, and weekends.
   
7. Food Handlers Certification an asset.
   
8. Experience with artifact handling an asset.

SALARY:  Grade F

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

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.