JOB SUMMARY

Cultural and Heritage Programs is responsible for multi-disciplinary arts centres, heritage and museum facilities and structures, the delivery of arts, heritage and museum public programming and events, volunteer program development, audience development, and exhibits and research.

You are responsible for: interpretive and educational program development as well as delivery at the City of Ottawa’s historic sites and museums; ongoing work on heritage projects, including preparation and coordination of heritage programming materials and supplies; and historical research for educational and promotional use. You work with the Education and Interpretation Programs Officers to develop and deliver heritage programming to Museum users, and receive and direct visitors. You also answer public inquiries (such as genealogy research and questions related to the site’s history), dispense public information, and perform reception and clerical duties as needed, including program bookings, mailings, reservations and confirmations.

Heritage programming may include, but is not limited to: print shop operations, sawmill assistance, pump factory operations, blacksmith shop operations, carpentry, animal and livestock husbandry, farming and agriculture, and operation of heritage farm equipment, including vintage tractors.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

Completion of 2 years of university or college in History, Social Sciences, Museum Studies, Education or related discipline.

Minimum of 2 years of interpretive or educational experience in a museum environment, or 2 years of experience teaching in a school environment. 

Minimum of 1 year experience in historical research and project writing, or 1 year of experience in a heritage trade.

CERTIFICATIONS AND LICENCES

KNOWLEDGE

• Historical facts and information about the city of Ottawa
• Ottawa’s historical sites, museums, archives and other heritage institutions
• Educational and interpretive programming techniques
• Practical knowledge of heritage trade(s)
• Theories and practices of teaching
• Ontario School curriculum
• Proper museological techniques for the handling and display of artifacts
• Current trends in museum educational programs
• Client service needs
• Project management
• MS Office software including MS Word and MS Excel.
• General visitor centre procedures and techniques
• Knowledge of applicable health and safety legislation, including the rights and duties of workers.

COMPETENCIES, SKILLS AND ABILITIES

• Demonstrable skill in heritage trade(s)
• Excellent communication
• Excellent promotional skills
• Very good organizational and multitasking skills
• Excellent writing skills
• Demonstrated ability to lead, coordinate, and supervise staff
• Budget management
• Make decisions, design and implement programs
• Able to multi-task and work independently as well as in a team setting
• Flexibility and ability to cope with a changing working environment
• Thrives and fosters a continuous learning environment
• Demonstrates leadership, initiative and creativity
• Organized, efficient and productive
• Excellent people skills 
• Able to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends