West Baltimore museum operating multiple historic sites and tour locations is seeking a reliable, detail-oriented Lead Tour Guide & Site Coordinator to join our team. This is a part-time/contractual position for up to one year (renewable) with the potential for promotion to manager for the right candidate. You will work at multiple historic sites and at special events such as our annual festival. In addition to leading public tours, you will coordinate America 250 programming, contribute to program development and editing of interpretive materials, and, after training, serve as weekend site manager.
As we prepare for America 250, this role is part of our mission to share Baltimore’s chapter of the American story with visitors from around the world. From Revolutionary-era figures to the enduring influence of Edgar Allan Poe, you will help bring history to life through tours, programs, and events. With the planned expansion of the Poe House & Museum — and exhibits that will continue to grow in the years ahead — this position offers both a meaningful step in your museum career and the opportunity to evolve alongside our expanding sites and programs.
We are looking for someone who thrives on organization, takes pride in their work, and can balance engaging the public with keeping operations running smoothly. We value professionalism and resilience under direct feedback, consistency, and instructions to be followed without repeated reminders. Consistent attendance and punctuality are essential — unexcused absences, tardiness, or repeated failure to report for scheduled shifts without prior approval will result in termination of contract. Weekends required; no pre-scheduled time off during peak season months (Sept, Oct, Jan, Apr–Aug) except in emergencies. The ideal candidate is someone interested in growing on the job, taking on increased responsibilities as opportunities arise. For the right candidate, additional contract hours are also available through one of our museum partners.
Send a resume and cover letter explaining:
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Why you want to work in the museum/historic site field
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How your experience demonstrates strong organizational skills and follow-through
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Your availability for weekends and special events
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OPTIONAL: Include a writing sample
Applications without a cover letter will not be considered.
Responsibilities & Role Overview
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Lead tours and check-in/ticketing at multiple historic sites (requires reliable transportation within Baltimore City – car strongly recommended)
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Coordinate America 250 programs and special events
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Contribute to program development, including editing interpretive content, event descriptions, and educational materials (writing sample encouraged if selected for interview)
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Manage weekend site operations after training
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Maintain site organization and ensure spaces are ready for the next shift
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Represent the museum at festivals and community events
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Assist with administrative tasks, scheduling, and data collection
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Reliable travel to/from multiple Baltimore City locations as needed
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Maintain visitor safety and enforce site policies
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Perform physical work including setup/breakdown, cleaning, walking/climbing stairs, and lifting up to 25 lbs
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Up to one year, renewable. Work patterns vary by season:
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Off-peak: 2–3 shifts/week (~5.5 hours each)
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Peak months: 4–5 shifts/week, with some event days up to 12 hours (overtime paid after 40 hours/week)
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Qualifications
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Some college coursework in history, museum studies, education, or related field
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Minimum 2 years of management or supervisory experience with references -
Demonstrated ability to lead teams, delegate tasks, and problem-solve in real time
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Strong attention to detail and proven follow-through — completes tasks without repeated reminders
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Strong public speaking skills and comfort addressing diverse audiences
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Ability to adapt style/age-appropriateness for tours, exhibits, and promotional materials
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Interest in Baltimore’s history, literature, and cultural heritage
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Reliable, detail-oriented, and able to work independently across multiple locations
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Must be able to stand/walk for up to 90 minutes, climb minimum three flights of stairs, work in variable weather, and perform light physical labor
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Complete background check required
Contract Terms
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Up to one year, renewable. Avg hourly rate of $17.50, paid via timecard; annual earnings may reach up to $30,000 depending on seasonal scheduling and special events. 30-day training period at $15/hour rate.
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Some event weeks (including the annual festival in October) may involve multiple consecutive days up to 12 hours with appropriate breaks — overtime is paid for any hours worked over 40 in a week
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Weekends/holidays are required; closed Nov/Dec holidays
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No pre-scheduled time off during peak season months (Sept, Oct, Jan, Apr–Aug) except in emergencies.
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Uniform shirt provided; employee supplies khaki pants/shorts/skirt and closed-toe walking shoes
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Consistent attendance and punctuality are essential — unexcused absences, tardiness, or repeated failure to report for scheduled shifts without prior approval will result in termination of contract