Eastern State Penitentiary Historic Site (ESPHS) seeks outgoing, engaging and passionate people for the part-time, temporary position of Educator. Educators lead discussion-based walking tours focused on American criminal justice reform, from the founding of the penitentiary through to the present day. Education programs also include virtual tours, and brief behind the scenes experiences. ESPHS’ audiences include: school groups grades 4th -12th, colleges and university groups, as well as general interest tourists. At busy times of year, Educators can lead several tours a day in all-weather conditions.
Other responsibilities include welcoming and directing visitors, facilitating informal conversations, answering questions, explaining various programming options, tidying activity stations, performing basic maintenance and cleaning tasks, and upholding safety and security standards. Please note that ESPHS is a ruin and working conditions are not always ideal; Educators spend their workday in outdoor conditions.
You are a great fit for this job if you are:
A natural at leading conversations, listening to conflicting perspectives, and creating a positive group dynamic even with the most difficult subject matter.
Open, respectful, humble, and non-judgmental with a sense of humor.
Willing to listen and learn while sharing knowledge.
Interested in teaching people from a wide range of ages, backgrounds, and interests, especially learners in grades 4 to 12.
Flexible and adapt quickly.
Exceptional in providing customer service in a fast-paced environment.
Committed to diversity, equity and inclusion.
Able to work well on your own, but also enjoy collaboration and supporting your coworkers.
Willing to work outdoors in all types of weather.
Able to work weekends.
We especially encourage you to apply if you:
Speak more than one language.
Like telling stories.
Have a basic knowledge of the criminal justice system and incarceration.
Training:
ESPHS provides paid training that includes the history of the penitentiary, the complexities of today’s prison system, and tour techniques. No previous experience in education, museums or knowledge of incarceration is required.
To apply:
Click here to apply by Sunday, February 12 at 5:00 pm. Paper applications are also available at the historic site. All applicants will be contacted, even if not selected for an interview. No phone calls please.