Ohio History Center Interpretation Volunteer

Position: Interpretation Volunteer, Ohio History Center Programs

Type: Volunteer

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

Annual Required Hours: 40 hours during the fiscal year (July-June)

Location: Ohio History Center, Columbus, OH

Reports to: Manager, Ohio History Center Programs

Summary:

Volunteers at the Ohio History Center provide a welcoming environment for all our guests. Volunteers at this site help lead a variety of educational programs for adult, families, and school children. Volunteer duties include: museum cart interpretation, wayfinding, school programming, museum operations, and optional costumed interpretation. Volunteers sign up for one or more 4-hour shifts during the Ohio History Center's hours of operation (Wed-Sun, 9:30am-5pm). Training will be provided for all aspects of the job.

Please note: This position is intended for volunteers who like to engage with the public of all ages and backgrounds. This position is a visitor experience education position and requires volunteers to be on site.

Essential Functions:

• Greet and welcome visitors in a friendly manner

• Deliver educational programs 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.

• Continually be aware and keep informed about changes on site or in the museum

• Represent the site 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 program materials are properly handled and maintained.

• Assist with the set-up and take-down of program materials.

• Assist with museum operations and logistics as appropriate for the volunteer position.

Required Competencies:

• Must be at least 15 years of age of age to volunteer without a guardian

• Must complete a background check and volunteer onboarding paperwork

• 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.

• Possess a 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 groups around the museum.

Education and Experience Outcomes:

• Will learn about the history of Ohio

• Learn about various interpretive methods and learning styles

• 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

• Knowledge of museum best practices and procedures.

• Understand the value and vital role of interpretation in a museum setting.

Application Instructions

To apply, visit www.ohiohistory.org/get-involved/volunteer and use the Applicant Tracking System to apply. Include resume, cover letter, and applicable application materials. For questions and accommodations, email volunteer@ohiohistory.org or call 614-297-2565.