Volunteer Docent, Fort Ancient Earthworks & Nature Preserve in Oregonia, OH

The Ohio History Connection's mission is to
Spark Discovery of Ohio's stories.
Embrace the present, share the past and transform the future.

Position: Volunteer Docent, Fort Ancient Earthworks and Nature Preserve

Type: Volunteer

Schedule: Part-time, unpaid 3 -hour shifts. Saturday work may be required for programming.

Location: Fort Ancient Earthworks and Nature Preserve in Oregonia, OH

Reports to: Education Specialist

Summary:

The Volunteer Docent provides a welcoming environment, guides visitors through the Museum and/or programs, and helps to care for the exhibits.

The Site features ancient earthworks, an on-site museum, an interpretive garden and three miles of hiking trails with scenic outlooks.

The museum exhibits highlight the rich history of this complex ancient hilltop enclosure and the ingenuity and scientific genius of the people who constructed it. This National Historic Landmark was built 2,000 years ago by the ancestors of contemporary Indigenous people and is thought to have served as a social and ceremonial gathering place.

Museum Docents sign up for one or more 3-4-hour shifts during the Museum's hours of operation (Wednesday through Saturday, 9am – 4pm), most often when a tour is scheduled.

Essential Functions:

• Greet and welcome visitors to the museum and site
• Conduct tours for approximately one hour in length for audiences of diverse backgrounds which may include school-age children, young adults, educators, seniors, visitors with special needs, and those for whom English is not their first language.
• Maintain the security of the exhibits and collection during tours
• Continually be aware and keep informed about changes on site and in the museum
• Represent the Museum in a professional and courteous manner to members of the visiting public
• Interact with program participants and visitors in a positive and engaging manner
• Ensure tour and program materials are properly handled and maintained
• Assist with the set-up and take-down of program materials
• Attend volunteer trainings and meetings

Required Competencies:

• Must be at least 18 years of age
• Must create and account, log volunteer hours and sign up for volunteer shifts via Track It Forward
• Must attend professional development and volunteer meetings
• Comfortable speaking in front of groups.
• Desire to learn about history and share their knowledge.
• Reliable and punctual.
• Flexibility, enthusiasm, and an attitude of respect for working with diverse staff and visitors.
• Physically able to lead tours around the museum.

Education and Experience Outcomes:

• Will learn about the history of the site and Ohio History Connection
• Will learn to work within a team environment
• Will learn about aspects of visitor/hospitality services through training and on-the-job experience
• Will gain an understanding of the inner workings of a non-profit museum

Application Instructions

To apply, visit https://ohcvolunteers.applicantpro.com/jobs and use the Applicant Tracking System to apply. Include resume, cover letter, and applicable application materials. For questions and accommodations, email volunteer@ohiohistory.org.