School and Youth Program Facilitator

About the Position

The Position: Facilitators guide school groups through Colonial Williamsburg’s educational programs, ensuring well organized, engaging, and meaningful visits.

Main Duties:

• Deliver high quality school programs to assigned school groups on site, guiding groups through scheduled program activities and locations within the Colonial Williamsburg Historic area.
• Ensure smooth transitions between sites and maintain adherence to program timelines.
• Communicate clearly with teachers and chaperones regarding schedules and expectations.
• Facilitate student engagement through inquiry-based discussions using Colonial Williamsburg's Historic Area and collections to encourage participation and critical thinking with students.
• Create an environment where students feel comfortable asking questions and sharing ideas.
• Maintain consistency in program delivery and ensure that all activities align with established learning objectives and programmatic outlines/goals.
• Monitor group movement to ensure safety and compliance with site policies.
• Respond appropriately to emergencies or unexpected situations and assist with managing group behavior in a positive and professional manner.
• Collaborate with Historic Trades, Historic Area Interpretation, Rare Breeds, Archaeology, and other departments to support effective program delivery and maintain positive working relationships.
• Communicate with the Associate Director of School and Youth Programs to address scheduling, operational, or program-related issues.
• Participate in and attend all required training sessions and team meetings to support program effectiveness.

Required Education and Experience

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent education, experience, and training.
• 2–3 years of experience working with students or youth in educational, recreational, or program-based settings, including leading groups in structured activities.

Preferred Qualifications

• Classroom teaching experience at any grade level.
• Previous museum/historic site experience.
• Previous experience as a tour guide or in leading group tours.
• Demonstrated passion for history, particularly American history, Virginian history, and/or Williamsburg history.
• Experience in performing arts (such as theater, music, or public speaking) is a plus.

Key Skills / Competencies

• Familiarity with managing schedules and group logistics in dynamic environments.
• Ability to confidently lead and manage large student groups while maintaining engagement and effective program flow.
• Skill in facilitating inquiry-based discussions that encourage participation, curiosity, and critical thinking.
• Understanding of American history, particularly Colonial, Virginian, and Williamsburg history, or the willingness to learn and apply historical content accurately.
• Comfort with adapting to changing schedules, varying group needs, and outdoor working conditions.
• Clear and effective communication with students, teachers, and colleagues.
• Ability to collaborate as part of a dynamic team to deliver consistent, high-quality programs.
• A positive, professional demeanor that reflects enthusiasm and respect in all interactions.
• Willingness to continue learning, develop new skills, and participate in ongoing training.
• Ability to use storytelling, performance techniques, or interactive methods to make historical content engaging and accessible.