Step back in time as you work one of five stations at the Stauffer-Will Farm, the Old Aurora Colony Museum’s living history field trip program.  Guide 3rd-6th grade students through the process of using tools, woodworking, making bread on a wood stove, learning about fiber arts, and dipping a candle.  No experience required.  Training will be provided.  As a Stauffer-Will Farm Interpreter, you will play a vital role in delivering an engaging and educational experience for our young visitors. Flexible work schedule, work as little as 4 days in the season up to several days a week.

Mission: The Aurora Colony Museum brings the past to life through the history, crafts, and culture of the Aurora Colony and its role in Oregon’s early immigration story.

Reports to:                  Program Manager

Classification:             Seasonal, Part-Time, Non-Exempt (Hourly),

Hours:                         Interpreters may work as little as one day per week, with at least 2-3 days per week preferred, depending on program needs and availability.
Typical work hours are 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. on scheduled workdays.

Salary Range:              $17.50-19.00 Depending on experience

Supervises:                  No direct reports

Position Summary

The Interpreter supports the museum’s field trip program by providing engaging, age-appropriate interpretation for visiting students in a historic farm setting. This role focuses on guiding small groups through hands-on activities, sharing stories, and helping students safely explore 19th-century daily life through simple demonstrations and tasks. Interpreters work in period clothing as part of a collaborative team and receive training and support throughout the season. This position is well-suited for individuals who enjoy working with children, learning new skills, and contributing to positive, memorable educational experiences.

Essential Tasks

• Provide a lively and interactive experience for visitors, including demonstrating historical activities, guiding students through the activity, and answering questions.
• Effectively manage groups of students, chaperones and teachers in your station.
• Calmly handle any situation that may arise in a remote environment.
• Learn the hands-on educational activity of your station.
• Stations options include:
  Barn 1: Using a crosscut and bucksaw
  Barn 2: Using an auger to drill a candle holder
  Kitchen: Baking bread using a wood stove
  House: Making a “quilt” using fabric squares and a paper template
  Chicken Coop: dipping a candle
• Assist the Program Coordinator (onsite supervisor) as directed.
• Maintain friendly and positive attitude.
• Follows opening and closing procedures for your station. Ensure that your station is ready for student arrival and left clean and tidy at the end of the day.
• Observe applicable safety requirements, use safety equipment provided, implement appropriate safety practices at all times and immediately report any unsafe working conditions or hazards.
• Become familiar with the history of the Aurora Colony and Stauffer-Will Farm.  Answer routine inquiries or refer them to proper personnel.
• Work independently while understanding the necessity for communicating and coordinating work efforts with other employees.
•  Interact professionally with other employees and volunteers.
•  Other duties as assigned.

General Professional Expectations

• Work independently while understanding the necessity for communicating and coordinating work efforts with other employees.
• Interact professionally with other employees, volunteers, stakeholders and guests.
• Maintain professionalism in public-facing settings.
• Ability to remain calm in surprising or stressful conditions.

Qualifications

•  High School Diploma or GED.
•  Must be 18 years of age.
•   Must be available to work 9:30 am to 1:30 pm on the day of your shift.
• Excellent communication skills and the ability to engage with a diverse group of visitors, including young children and teachers.
•  Ability to memorize and deliver scripted information about the exhibits and historical activities.
•   Period costume encouraged, but not required.  Period costume provided, if needed.
•  Employment is subject to a national background check.
• Ability to work with diverse audiences.

Preferred Qualifications

•  Prior experience working in a museum, historical site, or educational setting preferred.
• Knowledge of local history and agricultural practices a plus.
• Experience working with 3rd through 6th grade students.

For complete physical and mental activity requirements and environmental conditions, please  see the full job description at https://www.auroracolony.org/jobs.

Benefits

This temporary, seasonal position is not eligible for paid sick leave, holiday pay, or additional benefits..

Application Instructions

Great candidates come from many paths. We value a wide mix of education and experience and encourage anyone interested to apply.

We will begin reviewing applications immediately, so please apply as soon as possible. The closing date is subject to change at any time.  

Please submit your resume and cover letter via email to info@auroracolony.org.

www.auroracolony.org/jobs