Job ID #31479: Historical Interpreter - Dundurn (Periodic)

Contribute to the City of Hamilton, one of Canada’s largest cities - home to a diverse and strong economy, an active and inclusive community, a robust cultural and dining scene, hundreds of kilometers of hiking trails and natural beauty just minutes from the downtown core, and so much more. Join our diverse team of talented and ambitious staff who embody our values of sensational service, courageous change, steadfast integrity, collective ownership and being engaged empowered employees. Help us achieve our vision of being the best place to raise a child and age successfully. #BeTheReason

• Job ID #31479: Historical Interpreter - Dundurn (Periodic)
• Union: CUPE Local 5167
• Job Description ID #:794
• Duration: Periodic posting for all upcoming temporary part-time vacancies. Applications will be considered from November 5, 2025 - May 5, 2026.
• Close date: Interested applicants please submit your application online at www.hamilton.ca/city-council/jobs-city by 4:00 p.m. on November 5, 2025
• Internal applicants should apply with your work e-mail address. External applicants are considered only after the internal posting process has been completed. Only applicants chosen for an interview will be contacted.
  
  

Summary Of Duties

Reports to the Site Supervisor- Dundurn National Historic Site. In accordance with museum standards, provides visitor orientation and interpretation for Dundurn National Historic Site (including Dundurn Castle, Dundurn Park and all related outbuildings). Creates and delivers educational and public programs and events; conducts research; performs clerical and security functions.

GENERAL DUTIES

Receive visitors, give tours and provide historical interpretation of the site.

Provide meaningful interpretation to the general public. Assist in development and implementation of public programs, special events or other activations in the community (both in person and digital). Strive to create experiences that are relevant, thought-provoking, inclusive of multiple perspectives, emotionally intelligent and fun.

Responsible for all aspects of tours, and programs such as adhering to time schedules, group control, supplies and artifact safety.

Required to wear period costume and demonstrate the role of a nineteenth century person.

Maintain security for irreplaceable building and artifacts.

Assists in monitoring and securing of building and collection. Responsible for visitor safety; ensures those visitors who enter, leave.

Research information relating to Dundurn Castle from the Nineteenth and Twentieth Century.

Assist with planning and development of tours, program and special events on and off site including those for schools, special needs and special interest groups.

Receive and answer visitor inquiries.

Prepare flyers and program material.

Represent the museum at off site functions.

Assist with the setting up and dismantling of displays, programs and special events.

May be required to take tickets and complete related forms.

Work in accordance with the provisions of applicable Health and Safety legislation and all City of Hamilton corporate and departmental policies and procedures related to Occupational Health and Safety.

Perform other duties as assigned which are directly related to the major responsibilities of the job.

Qualifications

• Previous and recent historical interpretation or heritage experience related to duties listed above normally acquired through a combination of education and experience.
• Ability to provide visitor orientation and interpretation of historic contents (i.e. its collections); research pertinent facts and assist in the planning, implementing and co-ordination of special events and programs. Must have acquired a level of competence in specialized knowledge and skills and practical knowledge relating to a specific field.
• Must have excellent verbal and written communication skills with visitors of all ages and interest; must have experience communicating with groups of mixed ages, knowledge and interests.
• Experience in a computerized environment. Working knowledge of Microsoft Office (Word, Excel and Outlook).
• Due to operational requirements, the incumbent must be available to work days, nights, and weekends
• Proven ability to provide interpretation of an historic site and artefact collections, with a focus on the visitor experience and safety.
  
  

Note 1: This position may be required to work nights and weekends, as well as staggered work hours to meet operational needs.

Note 2: As a condition of employment, the successful applicant(s) will be required to obtain, satisfactory to the City of Hamilton, a Vulnerable Sector Check, at their own expense, prior to beginning work in this position.

Disclaimer:

Be advised that Human Resources frequently audits resumes of internal/external applicants to ensure/validate information provided is consistent and trustworthy. Falsification of information provided at any time throughout the recruitment process may be grounds for disqualification, and for internal applicants, subject to discipline up to and including termination.

Terms:

The City is an equal opportunity employer that is committed to inclusive, barrier-free recruitment and selection processes. Consistent with our Values and Corporate Culture Pillars, the City of Hamilton is committed to providing equitable treatment to all with respect to barrier-free employment and accommodation without discrimination. The City will provide accommodation for applicants in all aspects of the hiring process, up to the point of undue hardship. If you have an accommodation need, please contact Human Resources as soon as possible to make appropriate arrangements.