Interpretation Manager - Ford House

Posted on 9/19/24  

Department: Education

Reports to: Director of Education

Full Time, Exempt, Full Benefit Package Eligible

Level 5, Revised: September/2024

Pay Rate: From $53,600

Position Description

The Interpretation Manager is responsible for developing content and strategies for visitors to make meaningful connections to the historical, cultural, and natural resources of Ford House. This includes training, scheduling, and managing a team of part- and full-time interpretive staff. As a key member of the Education Department, the Interpretation Manager communicates effectively with a variety of audiences, including cross-departmental staff, external partners, and visitors. The Interpretation Manager will reflect the ethos of the Ford House strategic plan, interpretive plan, and the goals of IDEA (inclusion, diversity, equity, and accessibility) in all aspects of their work. They work closely with the Education Department staff and collaborate with other departments, including Visitor Experience, Material Culture, Communications & Engagement, Security, and Landscapes teams.

The Interpretation Manager will collaborate with staff and stakeholders across Ford House to develop on-site and online interpretive materials and experiences for visitors. They will work with partners to create engaging content that sparks relevant connections between today’s audiences and the Ford Family Legacy. They will supervise all aspects of interpretation, with support from a team of 20 hourly employees. This is a full-time, exempt position, reporting to the Director of Education.

Responsibilities

• Oversee all aspects of interpretation activities, including guided tours.
• Develop and maintain staffing schedules for guided tours and interpretive activities.
• Liaise with the Group Sales Manager to schedule and staff group tours and experiences.
• Manage payroll through online platform.
• Develop and conduct online and in-person training modules for staff.
• Work with staff to manage capacity and flow through the historic buildings.
• Serve in various capacities related to running tours.
• Work with the Material Culture on issues related to the maintenance of the House and the protection of the collection.
• Work with the Group Sales Manager & Communications & Engagement to develop promotional content for all tours.
• Observe, evaluate, offer feedback, provide support, and supervise staff.
• Maintain accurate records.
• Communicate with the Director of Education and Director of Talent & Culture about staff performance.
• Support the mission, vision and values of Ford House.
• Implement the content and strategies outlined in the Interpretive Master Plan.
• Work with the Education staff to develop additional programs and content.
• Work with the Director of Education on virtual tour capabilities.

Key Characteristics/Traits

• Well-organized
• Empathetic and thoughtful leadership
• Enjoy public speaking and presentations
• Theater/acting/performance/storytelling background is a plus
• Responsible, reliable, and able to use good judgement
• Friendly, courteous, empathetic, and engaging presence with all visitors and staff, including those of all abilities, ages, and backgrounds
• Growth mindset, interest in new technologies and new approaches to visitor engagement

Qualifications/Education

• A minimum of 3 years of management and supervisory experience with various feedback and professional growth models.
• A minimum of 3 years of experience working with docents/tour guides in a museum or historic home setting.
• Strong technology skills that include Excel spreadsheets, MS Office, online learning platforms, scheduling software, and various online and app platforms.
• Knowledge of best practices in adult learning and experience designing and delivering effective adult education.
• Experience with diverse audiences.
• Familiarity with educational standards and experiential learning.
• Familiarity with best practices and current knowledge of accessibility practices.
• Strong written, public presentation, and oral communication skills.
• Experience and skill working collaboratively, across departments.
• Well-developed conflict negotiation skills, problem solving abilities.
• Knowledge of current audience research and familiarity with museum education theory, interpretive strategies, and visitor engagement.
• Degree in history, humanities, the arts, theater, communications, museum studies, or related fields OR commensurate coursework and/or experience.
• Experience researching, writing, and conducting tours.
• Teaching experience is a plus.

Other Job Requirements

• Successful completion of background check.
• Be on their feet or sit for 2-4 consecutive hours.
• Project and modulate their voice.
• Use body language and gestures to communicate.
• Go up and down stairs and walk long distances.
• Manage emergencies according to FH protocols.
• Complete CPR training, certification, and recertification.
• Bend and/or stoop, climb, and lift up to 25 lbs. to perform tasks that may be required in the course of museum operation.
• Available to work some weekends, evenings, and holidays.

Ford House is committed to a policy of Equal Employment Opportunity and will not discriminate against an applicant on the basis of age, sex, sexual orientation, race, color, creed, religion, ethnicity, national origin, alienage or citizenship, disability, marital status, veteran or military status, genetic information, or any other legally recognized protected basis under federal, state, or local laws, regulations or ordinances. Applicants with disabilities may be entitled to reasonable accommodation under the terms of the Americans with Disabilities Act and/or certain state or local laws.