Visitor Services & Interpretation Associate

Part-Time Visitor Services & Interpretation Associate

Edward W. Kane and Martha J. Wallace Center for Black History
at the Wanton-Lyman-Hazard House
Newport Historical Society
Hourly rate: $20/hour

Position Overview

The Newport Historical Society seeks thoughtful, engaging, and intellectually curious individuals to serve as Visitor Services & Interpretation Associates at the Edward W. Kane and Martha J. Wallace Center for Black History.

This role combines frontline visitor service with active, meaningful interpretation. Associates will not only welcome guests and process admissions and retail transactions, but also serve as interpreters and facilitators of dialogue within the Center’s galleries and historic spaces.

This is a public-facing position for someone who is comfortable discussing complex and layered histories and who understands the importance of respectful, inclusive storytelling in a museum environment.

About the Center

"The Edward W. Kane and Martha J. Wallace Center for Black History engages, inspires, and educates about Newport's relationship with the African diaspora.

Our multidisciplinary and community scholarship and programming tells the story of Black history in Newport from the earliest arrival of African-descended peoples in Newport, to the period of Newport's role as the Center of the colonial and American slave trade, through the present-day descendant community."

Associates play a vital role in bringing this mission to life each day.

About the Newport Historical Society

The Newport Historical Society is a nonprofit dedicated to preserving the rich history of Newport County. Our six treasured properties and extensive collections, featuring manuscripts, decorative arts, and photographs, span five centuries. We engage the community and make history more accessible through tours, educational programs, a museum, and a library.

Founded in 1854, the purpose of the Newport Historical Society is to collect, document and preserve Newport’s unique contribution to our national narrative over the course of five centuries. Our continuing mission is to chronicle, advocate for the importance of, and communicate this history to a broad audience, so that knowledge of our past will contribute to a deeper understanding of the present and better preparation for the future.

Schedule

• Flexible part-time hours (~3 days per week)
• Shifts generally fall between 9:30 AM and 5:00 PM
• Weekends and some holidays required
• In-person position at the Edward W. Kane and Martha J. Wallace Center for Black History at the Wanton-Lyman-Hazard House in Newport, RI

Key Responsibilities

Visitor Services & Operations

• Serve as the first point of contact for visitors, creating a welcoming and respectful environment
• Process ticket sales, admissions, and retail transactions using point-of-sale systems
• Answer phone inquiries and respond to general questions about exhibitions, programming, and tours
• Open and close the Center following established procedures
• Maintain organized retail and front desk areas
• Monitor gallery and historic spaces to ensure visitor safety and the preservation of the site

Interpretation & Engagement

• Actively interpret exhibitions and historic spaces for visitors of diverse backgrounds and ages
• Facilitate thoughtful conversations about Newport’s Black history and its broader national and global context
• Answer visitor questions with historical accuracy, clarity, and sensitivity
• Adapt interpretive approaches for individuals, families, school groups, and community audiences
• Assist with public programs, lectures, performances, school visits, and special events hosted at the Center, helping with setup, visitor flow, and engagement as needed
• Support interpretation of the Center’s outdoor backyard space as an extension of the visitor experience. Encourage visitors to explore the outdoor space and communicate its connection to the Center’s mission and programming

Associates are expected to balance operational responsibilities with interpretive presence on the floor throughout their shifts.

Qualifications

• Strong interpersonal and communication skills with a welcoming, service-oriented mindset
• Comfort discussing complex historical topics, including slavery, race, and memory
• Ability to facilitate respectful dialogue in a public setting
• Interest in African diaspora history, public history, museum studies, or related fields preferred
• Experience in museums, cultural institutions, education, or customer service is a plus
• Comfortable using digital ticketing and point-of-sale systems
• Reliable, self-motivated, and able to work independently
• Ability to stand for extended periods, navigate stairs, and lift up to 20 pounds
• Professional appearance and adherence to Newport Historical Society policies

What This Role Requires

This position requires both hospitality and intellectual engagement. Associates must be able to shift seamlessly between handling transactions and facilitating meaningful conversations about the Center’s scholarship and mission. The role demands empathy, composure, and a commitment to accurate, community-informed interpretation.

All Visitor Services & Interpretation Associates will complete an intensive training period before assuming regular public-facing responsibilities. Because of the interpretive nature of this role, a commitment to preparation and ongoing learning is essential.

How to Apply

Please send a cover letter and resume to:

Matt Lanni, Manager of Visitor Experience
mlanni@newporthistory.org

Newport Historical Society is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, age, genetic information, or pregnancy, or any other characteristic protected by law. Our policy of equal employment opportunity applies to all aspects of employment, including recruitment, hiring, promotions, transfers, discipline, terminations, wage and salary administration, benefits, and training. We are committed to fostering a fair and merit-based workplace where every employee feels valued and respected.

Pay: From $20.00 per hour

Benefits:

• Employee discount
• On-the-job training

Education:

• High school or equivalent (Preferred)

Work Location: In person