About us
The Fresno County Historical Society at Kearney Mansion Museum specializes in providing unique historical and educational experiences for the overall community. Since our inception in 1919, the mission of the Fresno County Historical Society has been to engage, inform and educate the public through the collection, preservation and interpretation of the stories, images, and resources of our unique region to better understand our past and help shape our future. Our offices are located on the 2nd floor of the Servants’ Quarters building at the Kearney Complex. Our tours of Kearney Mansion tell the stories of the San Joaquin Valley’s agricultural beginnings through the life and times of M. Theo Kearney – an agricultural pioneer who came to be known as the Raisin King of California. The Society offers a wide variety of programs for both adults and children, including hosting field trips, family events, home school events, lectures, and more. Events and festivals, like the Fields of Fresno Ag Tours, the Mother’s Day Tea, Mystery Dinners, and the Christmas at Kearney events are enjoyed by many community members and travelers every year.

Primary Duties and Responsibilities:
1. Provide up to a 75-minute walking tour of Kearney Mansion, currently including the 2nd and 3rd floors, along with the Servants’ Quarters Ranch Kitchen and Exhibit Gallery for up to 40 guests.
2. Present the story of M. Theo Kearney, the Fruit Vale Estate, and its relation to local and state history.
3. Generate enthusiasm for the subject matter.
4. Work with FCHS Staff in order to ensure the success of the Tours.
5. Ensure the safety and security of all visitors and guests.
6. Provide historical information to guests while serving as docent in the Mansion Museum.
7. Collect walk-up tour monies and maintain accurate records.
8. Assist FCHS Staff with various Public Events and Programs.
9. Participate in tasks outside of regular scope during special event days.
10. Protect the artifacts in the Mansion from visitors.
11. If no tour group, then light dusting and vacuuming of Mansion.
12. Follow all policies and procedures in the Employee Handbook.
13. Perform miscellaneous job-related duties as assigned.

Requested Skills:
1. Ability to retain information related to the history of the Fruit Vale Estate.
2. Comfort with public speaking before crowds.
3. Exceptional verbal communication and interpersonal skills; an ability to convey (and personal investment in conveying) the importance of historical sites on the Kearney property.
4. A desire to learn and become a subject expert.
5. Strong organizational skills and computer proficiency required
6. Flexibility with scheduling.
7. Positive attitude and punctual and professional presentation.
8. Knowledge of basic skills in web application software.
9. Spanish-speaking preferred

Minimum Job Requirements
1. Work authorization (Required)
2. Strong interpersonal skills, enthusiasm, reliability, and willingness to work directly with volunteers and the public
3. High School Diploma or GED

Working Conditions and Physical Effort
1. Limited exposure to physical risk.
2. Moderate physical activity. Requires handling of average-weight objects up to 50 pounds and some standing or walking.
3. Work is primarily indoors and heated and/or air conditioned but can be outside at times in the weather.
4. Tour includes climbing staircase to upper levels of Kearney Mansion while leading group.
5. Tour guide must be able to walk backwards and talk.

Job Type: Part-time

Pay: From $16.50 per hour

Expected hours: 5 – 25 per week

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• Employee discount

Schedule:

• Monday to Friday
• Weekends as needed

Supplemental pay types:

• Overtime pay

Education:

• High school or equivalent (Required)

Work Location: In person