Fort Edmonton Park

Are you passionate about the history of Edmonton and Western Canada?  Have you always wanted to travel back in time? Are you excited to learn, and eager to share what you know with others? Do you love to create memory-making experiences for guests from around the world? If so, the Costumed Historical Interpreter position may be just the thing for you! 

Like a language interpreter, historical interpreters at Fort Edmonton Park help to translate Edmonton's unique histories and cultures to guests from all over the world. We are looking for individuals and families who are passionate about the past, or our city, and who love to tell stories, teach, or share heritage skills. You'll bring Edmonton's rich history to life, enjoy a vibrant volunteer environment, and develop memories that will last a lifetime!

This volunteer position is a weekly commitment for approximately 5 months (May to September) with a minimum commitment of 60 hours. Scheduling is flexible depending upon your availability. The position may be renewed annually. May apply as a family unit or an individual (18 yrs+ to volunteer independently).  

For Families: Research shows that getting kids involved in volunteering early is a great way to support their community spirit and skill development. We require children under the age of 13 to volunteer with a parent or guardian over the age of 18 to ensure the safety and success of our young volunteers. A maximum of three children under 13 may volunteer with one adult. Children may volunteer with an adult other than their parent, provided that consent is provided (or as part of the Junior Volunteer Program for youth 13-17 years old, which requires a separate application). 

Due to a high volume of applicants, only those chosen to interview will be contacted in February. It is important that you are prepared to meet the minimum 60 hours commitment (which includes training) throughout the 2024 season and avail your calendar to the mandatory training dates provided below.

As a Costumed Historical Volunteer you will:

• Discover or explore an area of history and culture that you are passionate about

• Portray historical characters and connect visiting public with stories from a period of Edmonton's history using a variety of methods such as: costumed role play, tours, historical demonstrations, and engaging visitors in one-on-one conversations

• Partner with staff to develop and deliver large-scale interpretive programs such as historical vignettes, talks, and special event activities; this may also include research and implementing new programs as your skills or interests determine

• Assist with special events

• Assist in the maintenance of artifacts and program supplies

• Participate in media engagements, or publicity functions, as available

• Provide quality customer service and positively represent Fort Edmonton Park

• Support health and safety procedures
  

Assets

• Passion for history, your culture and our city

• Public speaking skills and experience

• Strong verbal communication skills

• Experience working or volunteering in a museum, cultural centre, or historic site

• Theatrical, dramatic, or performance experience

• Willingness to share/learn new skills, particularly those of a historic nature (ie. sewing, blacksmithing, carpentry, leather craft, etc.)

• Ability to work independently and as part of a team with staff/volunteers

• Additional languages are highly appreciated

• Previous experience volunteering or working at Fort Edmonton Park

We are an equal opportunity employer. We welcome diversity and encourage applications from the diversity of individuals represented throughout Edmonton today.

Important Dates:

Posting closes:  Sunday, February 13

Interviews:  End of February

Mandatory Orientation & Training dates: Saturday, May 3 & 10

Additional Training (optional): May 1 - May 14. Volunteers are welcome and schedule will be shared once confirmed. 

Summer Season begins: Saturday, May 17

Summer Season ends:  Monday, September 1. Only first 2 weekends of September available for volunteering after this date.

Please email any questions to judy.glenn@edmonton.ca

Thank you and have a great day.