Description
Bring Florida's History to Life at Cracker Country!
Do you have a passion for history, education, and storytelling? Join the Florida State Fair Authority—proudly recognized as one of Tampa Bay's Top Workplaces—as a Historic Area Docent at Cracker Country, our award-winning living history museum.
Located on the Florida State Fairgrounds, Cracker Country transports visitors back to rural Florida in the late 1800s through authentic buildings, engaging demonstrations, and interactive educational experiences. As a Historic Area Docent, you'll play a vital role in preserving Florida's heritage by leading tours, sharing fascinating stories, and creating memorable experiences for thousands of students and guests each year. If you enjoy working with people and bringing history to life, we'd love to have you join our team!
SUMMARY
Historic Area Docents interpret late 19th century life in rural Florida, giving accurate historical information about the museum buildings, exhibits and the lifestyles.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Lead tours and activities throughout the museum buildings and exhibits for field trips and special community events.
- Maintain historically accurate appearance throughout demonstrations and activities.
- Learn and/or expand knowledge of historical and period activities.
AVAILABILITY:
Historic Area Docents are expected to be available 75% of the time for our school tour programs. This is a 10-12 hour per week position during the school year, with possible additional hours during museum events and the Annual Florida State Fair.
The Florida State Fair Authority is a drug free workplace and an equal employment opportunity employer.
Requirements
QUALIFICATIONS/EDUCATION/CERTIFICATIONS:
High School Diploma or equivalent/GED
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:
-Minimum of one year experience in education, museum education, historic interpretation and/or equivalent.
-Experience in living history museum and/or guest services experience a plus.
-Experience working with children and/or families a plus
-Exceptional customer service and strong interpersonal skills
-Ability to organize information in a concise and coherent manner for presentations.
-Ability to work flexible schedule
PHYSICAL DEMANDS/WORKING CONDITIONS:
Duties are performed 65% or more in an outdoor setting. Must be able to stand, walk, sit, use hands, reach with hands and arms, climb or balance, stoop, kneel, crouch, crawl, talk, hear, and occasionally lift or move (more than 20 pounds). Environmental elements include exposure to wetness or humidity, work near mechanical parts and outdoor weather conditions.
Skills Required
- High school diploma or equivalent (GED)
- Minimum of one year experience in education, museum education, historic interpretation, or equivalent
- Experience in living history museums or guest services
- Experience working with children and/or families
- Exceptional customer service and strong interpersonal skills
- Ability to organize and present information concisely and coherently
- Availability to work a flexible schedule and be available ~75% for school tour programs (10-12 hours/week during school year)
- Able to perform physical tasks: stand/walk/climb/stoop/kneel/crawl/talk/hear and occasionally lift/move over 20 pounds; work outdoors in varying weather
What We Do
The Florida State Fair Authority is responsible for organizing and operating Florida's annual State Fair. It serves as a significant gathering place showcasing the state's heritage and culture, and its fairgrounds are a year-round destination for events.
