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Open Position for

Living History Performer

Living History Performer Job Description

Position: Living History Performer 

 Reports to: Living History Coordinator, Director of Interpretation 

Status: Part-time, non-exempt (not to exceed 29 hours/week) 

Hours: Variable (May include weekend and holiday hours) 

Salary: $17.45/hour 

Description: 

Mark Twain House tours and programs provide interactive visitor experiences for a variety of audiences.  Living History Performers work with adults, children, families and tourist groups.  The goal of this program is to provide consistent and exemplary visitor experiences that are educational, enjoyable, and able to motivate people to want to learn more.   

Living History Performers guide tours of The Mark Twain House in period-appropriate dress while portraying a figure from the house’s long history, drawing on both scripted material and independent research to engage with the public. There are seasonal opportunities for additional living history performances and programming.  

Tour preparation includes memorizing a 60-minute script and learning about Mark Twain, his family, and his historic Hartford home. 

To set up an audition, please send an email with the subject “Living History” with a headshot and resume to employment@marktwainhouse.org  

We are currently casting the following roles: 

Susy Clemens: Mark Twain’s eldest daughter, 18-20 years old. A clever writer like her father, passionate about the theatre. Thoughtful, introspective, and quite often the “busiest bee in the beehive.” 

 Livy Clemens: Mark Twain’s wife, 30-40 years old. A devoted mother to her three girls, and a guiding force for her youthful, witty husband. Elegant, educated, and a frequent editor of her husband’s manuscripts. 

 Rev. Joe Twichell: Mark Twain’s closest friend, 60-70 years old. A Yale graduate, local clergyman, and frequent partner in mischief to Twain. Broad minded, wise, and a fellow Hartford resident. 

 Katy Leary: Faithful lady’s maid and housekeeper, 30-40 years old. Daughter of Irish immigrants, gifted seamstress, and like a second mother to Twain’s three daughters.  

 George Griffin: Mark Twain’s butler and right-hand man, 30-40 years old. Born in Virginia and formerly enslaved, he is the head of the household staff on Farmington Avenue. Respected by the family and the community for his good nature, honesty, and shrewd judgement in local politics and betting. 

 Patrick McAleer: Mark Twain’s coachman and livestock handler, 40-50 years old. An Irish immigrant and father of seven, Twain once described him as “the ideal gentleman.” Responsible and trustworthy, but playful as well. 

 Lizzie Wills: A rather mischievous housemaid, 20-30 years old. English and fond of other people’s business. A bit of a romantic, even if to her own detriment. 

Benefits: 

Employee membership to the Museum, which includes free admission and discounts on programming.  20% discount in Museum Store and Cafe. 

 

Living History Performer Job Application

Open Position for

Maintenance/Security Specialist

Maintenance/Security Specialist Downloadable Job Description

Job Title: Maintenance/Security Specialist

Department: Maintenance & Security

Classification: Full Time

Date: January 31, 2022

Reports to: Director of Maintenance & Security

Job Summary: Periodically patrols buildings and grounds. Familiar with standard concepts, practices and procedures within a particular field. Rely on experience and judgment to plan and accomplish goals. Perform a variety of tasks. Work under general supervision. A certain degree of creativity and latitude is expected.

Specific Responsibilities:

  • Secure premises and personnel by patrolling property; monitoring surveillance equipment; inspecting buildings, equipment and access points; permitting entry.
  • Obtain help by sounding alarms.
  • Prevent losses and damage by reporting irregularities, informing violators of policy and procedures; restraining trespassers.
  • Control traffic by directing drivers.
  • Complete reports by recording observations, information, occurrences and surveillance activities; interviewing witnesses; obtaining signatures.
  • Maintain environment by monitoring and setting building and equipment controls.
  • Maintain organization’s stability and reputation by complying with legal requirements.
  • Ensure operation of equipment by completing preventive maintenance requirements; following manufacturer’s instructions; troubleshooting malfunctions; calling for repairs; evaluating new equipment and techniques.
  • Contribute to team effort by accomplishing related results as needed.
  • Ensure the security, safety and well-being of all personnel, visitors and the premises.
  • Provide excellent customer service.
  • Adhere to all company service and operating standards.
  • Remain in compliance with local, state and federal regulations.
  • Respond to emergencies to provide necessary assistance to employees and customers.
  • Protect the company’s assets relative to theft, assault, fire and other safety issues.
  • Follow procedures for various initiatives, including fire prevention, property patrol, traffic control and accident investigations.

General Duties: Security Officer top skills & proficiencies:

  • Written and Verbal Communication
  • Following Complex Instructions
  • Interpersonal Skills
  • Knowledge of Security Operations and Procedure
  • Manage Multiple Tasks
  • Knowledge of Basic Security and Fire Inspection Procedures
  • Lifting
  • Surveillance Skills
  • Judgment
  • Objectivity
  • Dependability
  • Emotional Control
  • Integrity
  • Safety Management
  • Professionalism
  • Reporting Skills

Maintenance Duties and Responsibilities:

  • Perform minor fixes, such as repairing broken locks, damage to walls, etc.
  • Install necessary appliances and equipment as needed.
  • Check control panels and electrical wiring to identify issues.
  • Maintain grounds, including garden and yard upkeep, trimming, edging, collecting trash, etc.
  • Perform necessary cleaning activities, such as dusting, mopping, trash removal, etc.
  • Complete regular maintenance tasks, such as replacing light bulbs.
  • Inspect and troubleshoot various equipment and systems.
  • Test the functionality of the facility’s safety systems.
  • Collaborate with a team of workers and other professionals during renovations and facility expansions.
  • Report to Director of Maintenance & Security regarding issues resolved, those needing attention, and those currently in progress.

Internal Contacts: All staff having business with the Maintenance & Security Department.

Qualifications:

  • Requires a high school diploma or its equivalent and 1-2 years of experience in the field or in a related area. Must have personal vehicle.

Salary: Commensurate with experience

Schedule: 35 hrs./week. After hours and weekend work is required.

Disclaimer:

This description indicates the general aspects of the position and is not intended to be a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities, and qualifications of this position. Management may add to or modify the duties of this position or designate other functions as essential at any point in time.

TO APPLY: All resumes and applications can be emailed to employment@marktwainhouse.org. Please include the position you are applying for in the subject line (Retail; Interpreter; Security). 

You can download and print the application by clicking below or request a paper copy by sending your name and postal address to employment@marktwainhouse.org.

Maintenance/Security Specialist Job Application

Open Position for

Special Events Manager

Special Events Manager Description

Job Title: Special Events Manager

Department: Retail Operations

Classification: Full Time

Date: February 7, 2023

Reports to: Director of Retail Operations

Job Summary: Under the general supervision of the Director of Retail Operations, the Special Events Manager will be directly responsible for all aspects of rentals at the Museum, including promoting the Museum as a venue for private, corporate, internal events, and community-partner functions. This position is responsible for developing and implementing facility rental policies and procedures consistent with the care of the collection and the facility and the safety of staff and visitors. Working directly with internal and external customers, this position is responsible for the day-to-day management of the Museum rental program, from contracting to production, including customer service, scheduling, coordinating staff and support services, and the dissemination of information concerning facility use and related financial management tasks. This position will require flexibility and non-standard work hours including weekends and evenings. 

Qualifications:

  • At least 2 years of event sales/management experience
  • Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills 
  • Ability to manage complex calendars and events and to thrive in a fast-paced environment 
  • Experience and familiarity with a wide range of Audio-Visual equipment and technology
  • Must have strong professional communication skills
  • Must be self-motivated and able to work with minimal supervision
  • Must be detail oriented, able to multi-task, and adapt to changing priorities and situations

Salary: Commensurate with experience

Schedule: 35 hrs./week, varies with event schedule

TO APPLY: Please send a cover letter and resume to Sydney.baker@marktwainhouse.org . No phone calls please. 

Special Events Manager Job Application

Open Position for

Historical Interpreter

Historical Interpreter Downloadable Job Description

REPORTS TO: Director of Interpretation

STATUS: Part-time, non-exempt (not to exceed 29 hours/week)

HOURS: 9:15 AM to 5:30 PM Monday-Sunday

SALARY: $14.00/hour

Mark Twain House education programs and tours provide interactive visiting experiences for a variety of audiences. Historical interpreters work with adults, children, families, and tourist groups in the Mark Twain House, on the grounds, and occasionally off-site. The goals of the Education Division include providing consistent and exemplary visitor services, providing participatory interpretive experiences that are educational, enjoyable, and able to motivate people to learn more.

DUTIES/RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Uses hands-on activities, questioning, observation, and discovery techniques, as appropriate, to interpret the stories of Mark Twain, his life, his works, and his family to adults, families, children, and groups according to standards set by the Director of Education.
  • Uses knowledge of cultural differences, ability to communicate with special needs groups, respect for diverse points of view, and willingness to adjust one’s own interpersonal skills to facilitate groups effectively.
  • Attends all training sessions and studies written materials regarding visitor studies and customer service, visitor service, interpretive, and educational skills.
  • Serves as security for the museum’s collection during programs and tours. Reports missing or damaged items to the Curatorial Division, following the proper procedures.
  • Takes turns managing visitor services desk, ticket sales, and associated daily record keeping.
  • Takes turns assisting with sales in the Mark Twain Store.
  • Acts as visitor advocate by observing and informally assessing visitor services on a daily basis and providing others in the Education Department with critical information about front-line needs.
  • Works as part of an Education Department team to help research, develop, and present interpretive programs and tours for adults, children, and mixed audiences in accordance with established program themes and objectives.
  • Adheres to dress codes and scheduling standards as defined by the institution.
  • Part-time interpreters are required to work a flexible schedule to include at least two weekend days per month and several holidays per year. Interpreters are required to work at least part of the three days after Thanksgiving Day, the first Sunday in December and some of the week between Christmas and New Year’s Day. Some work will be scheduled at night

KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS REQUIRED

  • Knowledge of learning styles and ability to work with people of varying ages and skills.
  • Demonstrated skill in communicating effectively, both orally and in writing.
  • General understanding of museum operations and procedures and customer/visitor service concepts.
  • Ability to work effectively with other employees, visitors, group tour leaders and volunteers.
  • Demonstrated ability to solve problems and make decisions under pressure.

DISCLAIMER:

This description indicates the general aspects of the position and is not intended to be a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities, and qualifications of this position. Management may add to, modify the duties of this position, or designate other functions as essential at any point in time.

SUPERVISION

Director of Interpretation supervises the Historical Interpreters. Work assignments and schedules are made on a monthly basis with informal modifications made, as needed. Performance evaluations occur after the first 2-3 months of employment and yearly thereafter. The director of interpretation conducts evaluations with input from the School Programs Coordinator and Assistant Managers of Visitor Services.

PERSONAL CONTACTS AND TEAMWORK

Historical Interpreters are in constant contact with the public. Contacts with other interpretive staff and members of the Education Department occur on a daily basis. Additional internal contacts may include members of the Public Relations, Curatorial, Finance, Development, and Administrative Divisions.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

The work involves direct contact with the public, under sometimes demanding conditions during periods of heavy visitation. The position also requires standing for long periods, managing several sets of staircases, working in a dimly lit environment and withstanding various weather conditions.

BENEFITS

Free or discounted admission to many museum events; 20% museum shop discount. Individuals with this position do not receive paid sick time.

FACILITY RENTALS

Mark Twain interpreters are given first choice to work rental events such as receptions, dinners, concerts and workshops being held in our facility. Most events are held in the evening and usually last 1-4 hours. A list of upcoming events is posted monthly and interpreters who wish to work them can sign up based on their own availability. Most events require one person to be the on-site representative of the museum for the duration of the event. If house tours are planned for the evening, more people will be needed to give the tours. Those signed up as guides for the event work only while the tours are going on and are then free to leave. These after-hours events pay $12.50 per hour.

TO APPLY: All resumes and applications can be emailed to employment@marktwainhouse.org. Please include the position you are applying for in the subject line (Retail; Interpreter; Security).

You can download and print the application by clicking below or request a paper copy by sending your name and postal address to employment@marktwainhouse.org.

Historical Interpreter Job Application

Open Position for

Museum Store Associate

Museum Store Retail Associate Downloadable Job Description

JOB TITLE: Retail Associate

DEPARTMENT: Museum Store and Nook Café

STATUS: Part-time, non-exempt (not to exceed 29 hours/week)

REPORTS TO: Director of Retail

Job Summary: The Retail Associate reports to the Director of Retail for the Museum. Under the guidance of the retail management team, the associate is responsible for providing excellent customer service both in person and on the phone and be able to communicate with visitors in a professional manner. A gracious, reliable, and responsive team player who enjoys dealing with the public is necessary. You will be assisting visitors in selecting purchases, conducting sales transactions, and maintaining the store environment by merchandising and housekeeping. In the Nook Café you will be responsible for the daily set up and break-down of the food displays. You will help visitors with food and beverage selections and make sure that all food safety guidelines are always adhered to.

The Museum and Nook Café Sales Associate will:

  • Open and close the museum Store/Nook when scheduled.
  • Greet all customers that enter the Store/Nook and respond to any questions that they might have.
  • Provide excellent customer service.
  • Operate cash registers, manage financial transactions and balance the drawers in both the Nook Café and Store.
  • Maintain sales floor/Nook Café appearance.
  • Cross-sell products.
  • Direct Customers to merchandise.

QUALIFICATIONS:

  • One year of current retail, specialty, museum or department store experience preferred.
  • General Knowledge of computer operations and experience working with a retail point of sale.
  • Familiarity with inventory replenishment and merchandising.
  • Strong attention to detail with the ability to handle cash accurately with computer based POS in a fast-paced environment
  • Demonstrated ability to work in a team environment while also providing exemplary one-on-one assistance with visitors. Some knowledge of Mark Twain is a bonus
  • Ecommerce experience is a plus.

SCHEDULE:

Varies with store/Nook needs. Holidays and weekends may be required.

DISCLAIMER:

This description indicates the general aspects of the position and is not intended to be a comprehensive inventory
Of all duties, responsibilities, and qualifications of this position. Management may add to, modify the duties of this position, or designate other functions as essential at any point in time.

TO APPLY: All resumes and applications can be emailed to employment@marktwainhouse.org. Please include the position you are applying for in the subject line (Retail; Interpreter; Security). 

You can download and print the application by clicking below or request a paper copy by sending your name and postal address to employment@marktwainhouse.org.

Retail Associate Job Application

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