Seasonal Docent (Historic Site Interpreter & Grounds Steward)
Position Type: Seasonal / Summer June to September
Schedule: Weekdays 8am to 4pm
Location: St. Ann’s Episcopal Church, 167 Ocean Ave., Kennebunkport, ME 04046
Reports To: Senior Warden
Position Summary
The Seasonal Docent serves as the primary public-facing representative of the St. Ann’s Church historic site. Responsible for welcoming visitors, preserving the integrity of the grounds, and delivering engaging historical interpretation during weekdays in the Summer season. This role combines visitor services, informal site supervision, and both scheduled and spontaneous tours of the property’s buildings and landscape. This role is ideal for individuals who enjoy storytelling, working with the public, and helping preserve and share history in a dynamic, outdoor environment. Qualified college students and retirees welcomed to apply.
Key Responsibilities
Visitor Engagement & Interpretation
- Greet and orient visitors upon arrival, providing an overview of the site and available experiences
- Conduct scheduled guided tours of historic buildings and grounds
- Offer spontaneous (“ad hoc”) tours and answer visitor questions throughout the day
- Interpret historical content in an engaging, accurate, and accessible manner for diverse audiences
- Tailor tours and interactions based on group size, age, and interest level
Site Oversight & Stewardship
- Monitor the grounds and facilities to ensure a safe, welcoming, and respectful environment
- Open and close buildings and gates as required by daily operations
- Report maintenance issues, safety concerns, or unusual activity to management
- Help maintain cleanliness and presentation of public areas
Operations Support
- Assist with ticketing, check-in, or donation processes (if applicable)
- Support special events, educational programs, or group visits (if applicable)
- Track visitor counts and provide basic daily reporting
- Ensure adherence to site policies, including grounds use and preservation guidelines
Qualifications
- Interest in history, museum studies, or a related field
- Strong communication and storytelling skills
- Comfortable speaking to individuals and groups of varying sizes and providing vistor guidance
- Reliable, punctual, and able to work independently
- Friendly, approachable, and customer-service oriented personality
- Ability to spend extended periods outdoors and on foot
Preferred:
- Previous experience in education, museums, tourism, or public-facing roles
- Knowledge of local or site-specific history
- Experience leading tours or giving presentations
Physical Requirements
- Ability to stand, walk, and navigate uneven terrain for extended periods
- Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions
- Occasional light lifting (up to 25 lbs)
Training
- Training will be provided for site history, scripted tour content, safety procedures, and visitor engagement techniques.
- Candidates will be encouraged to also do own historical researchle as able during work hours to enhance the site knowledgebase and improve visitor experience.
Compensation
- From $20 an hour, estimated 40 hours per week, June to September
Additional Information
Please email resume and cover letter to stannskptpa@gmail.com
