Shirley-Eustis House, Boston Seeks Docent Educators For the 2017 Summer/Fall Season

The Shirley-Eustis House (SEH),a 1747 Royal Governor’s Mansion located in Boston, Massachusetts, seeks to hire two (2) Docents to assist with seasonal programming (June through Columbus Day). In addition to the mansion, the site comprises the Gardner Carriage House Learning Center, heritage gardens/orchards, and a charming Tea Folly.

Docents will be responsible for interpreting the collections, architecture, and family stories of a diverse group of intriguing residents, who called SEH home from 1747 through circa 1910.

JOB DESCRIPTION: In addition to providing engaging tours, applicants will meet and greet visitors; open/close museum (including light housekeeping duties); present hands-on education (making butter, spinning) as needed; and assist with events as needed. Must be able to lift and carry buckets of water, wooden tables, and benches on occasion. Opportunities to assist with events beyond the season—such as the SEH Christmas Celebration—exist; some set-up duties included. Shifts run from 12:30-4:30Thursday through Sunday through Labor Day and Saturday/Sunday through Columbus Day; weekend flexibility required (advance notice will be given). Season Starts Saturday, June 3rd; a mandatory training session will be held prior to opening day.

QUALIFICATIONS: Knowledge of /passion for American history; comfortable speaking to and connecting with diverse audiences; a willingness to undertake both on-the-job training as well as research to expand your interest in the house, its history, and its occupants. Basic computer skills required, as is the ability to work independently and as a member of a team.

Advanced undergrads, graduate students, and educators in the historical, archaeological, art-history, or related fields encouraged to apply, as are applicants with archival, exhibit, and/or public-speaking skills/experience. Docents will be encouraged to complete a research project on some aspect of the house, collections, landscape/heritage gardens, residents, or folly.

Kindly forward a Résumé/CV, Cover Letter, & a List of Three (3) References to: info@shirleyeustishouse.org, noting DOCENT POSITION in the subject line. Please respond by Wednesday, April 26th. Thank you.