What are the responsibilities and job description for the Tour Guide position at MUSEUM OF AFRICAN AMERICAN HISTORY?
ABOUT THE MUSEUM OF AFRICAN AMERICAN HISTORY
The Museum of African American History, founded in 1967, is New England’s largest museum dedicated to preserving, conserving, and interpreting the contributions of African Americans. With locations in Beacon Hill and Nantucket Island, and two Black Heritage Trails®, the museum tells the story of organized black communities from the Colonial Period through the 19th century.
POSITION SUMMARY
The Boston Tour Guide plays a vital role in bringing the Museum’s exhibits to life by leading engaging, informative, and educational tours at our Boston campus. This position is ideal for individuals with a passion for history, particularly 18th and 19th century African American history, and a desire to share this knowledge with a diverse audience. As a tour guide, you will provide visitors with a deeper understanding of African American contributions, struggles, and triumphs during a transformative period in American history. This position will be part-time with expected working hours of up to 24 hours per week, which will include weekends and holidays. This position will run from Memorial Day through Labor Day 2026. This position reports to the Director of Learning and Engagement.
COMPENSATION: $15/hr
JOB TYPE: Part-time up to 24hrs per week
DATE: Spring 2026 – through Juneteenth
ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
- Conduct interpretive tours and programs for museum visitors, including general admissions, school groups, corporate groups, and dignitaries.
- Serve as a subject matter expert on African American history, facilitating engaging and interactive tours.
- Collaborate to develop and implement interpretive programs for school groups.
- Provide accurate and engaging information about the location's history, significance, and interesting facts.
- Ensure the safety and well-being of tour participants throughout the tour.
- Foster an inclusive and welcoming environment, encouraging questions and discussions.
- Maintain a professional and friendly demeanor at all times.
- Adapt tour content and delivery based on the needs and interests of the group.
- Manage time effectively to ensure timely departure and arrival at each destination.
- Coordinate with other staff members to ensure smooth operation of tours.
- Participating in the opening and closing procedures of the Museum.
- Participate in off-site museum programing as needed.
DESIRED SKILLS & ABILITIES
Qualifications:
- Previous experience in customer service or hospitality role.
- Strong verbal communication skills with the ability to engage diverse audiences, from schoolchildren to adults, in an informative and approachable manner.
- Knowledge in African American history, especially in 18th and 19th century America, with the ability to conduct related research to enhance tours and presentations.
- Leadership qualities to guide and manage groups effectively.
- Time management skills to ensure punctuality and adherence to tour schedules.
- High School Diploma with some college coursework in African American studies, American history, communications, social science, humanities, or related field is preferred.
- Bilingual or multilingual abilities are a plus.
Requirements:
- Ability to commit to a regular schedule including weekends and occasional special events.
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office and Adobe software.
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
- Willingness to perform additional assigned functions as needed.
- Professional communication skills with staff, visitors, and stakeholders.
- Ability to lift and carry items weighing up to 15 lbs.
- Ability to escort tour groups through multi-floor, multi-site facilities.
Reasonable Accommodation: Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform these essential functions.
EEO Statement: MAAH provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws.