1

Living History Interpreter Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Historic Site Manager

Angleton, TX ยท On-site

$31.20 - $35.11/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... and history interpretation with public audiences is required; involvement in Texas' historical re-enactment and living history community is preferred. Experience / expertise with black powder ...

Historic Site Manager

Angleton, TX ยท On-site

$31.20 - $35.11/hr

  • PTO

... and history interpretation with public audiences is required; involvement in Texas' historical re-enactment and living history community is preferred. Experience / expertise with black powder ...

Showing results 21-40

Living History Interpreter information

See salary details

$12

$25

$40

How much do living history interpreter jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for living history interpreter in the United States is $25.65, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.15 and $27.88 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by living history interpreters when engaging with diverse audiences?

Living History Interpreters often encounter audiences with varying levels of background knowledge and interest in historical topics. A key challenge is adapting communication styles to engage both children and adults, as well as addressing questions that may not have straightforward historical answers. Additionally, interpreters must balance historical accuracy with accessibility, making information relatable without oversimplifying. Flexibility, patience, and the ability to think on one's feet are essential skills for navigating these situations and ensuring every visitor has a meaningful experience.

What is a living history interpreter?

Living History Interpreters are professionals who portray historical figures or everyday people from a specific time period to educate and engage the public. They work in museums, historic sites, and reenactment events, using costumes, storytelling, and demonstrations to bring history to life. Their goal is to provide visitors with a deeper understanding of the past by recreating historical experiences and answering questions in character. This interactive approach helps make history more accessible and memorable for audiences of all ages.

What is the difference between Living History Interpreter vs Museum Educator?

AspectLiving History InterpreterMuseum Educator
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may prefer history or education certificationsDegree in education, history, or related field often preferred
Work EnvironmentHistorical sites, outdoor settings, living history museumsMuseums, educational centers, indoor and outdoor exhibits
Employer & IndustryHistorical sites, living history museums, cultural organizationsMuseums, educational institutions, cultural organizations
Primary FocusEngaging visitors through interactive historical reenactments and storytellingProviding educational programs, tours, and workshops about exhibits

While both roles involve educating the public about history, Living History Interpreters focus on immersive reenactments and interactive storytelling at historical sites, whereas Museum Educators develop and deliver educational programs within museum settings. Both require strong communication skills and a passion for history, but their work environments and methods differ.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a living history interpreter?

To thrive as a Living History Interpreter, you need a deep knowledge of historical periods, strong research skills, and often a background in history or education. Familiarity with period-appropriate tools, costumes, and sometimes museum collections management systems is important. Excellent storytelling, public speaking, and interpersonal skills help engage visitors and create immersive educational experiences. These skills are vital for bringing history to life accurately and memorably, fostering visitor interest and learning.
More about Living History Interpreter jobs
What cities are hiring for Living History Interpreter jobs? Cities with the most Living History Interpreter job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Living History Interpreter jobs? The most popular types of Living History Interpreter jobs are:
Who are the top companies hiring for Living History Interpreter jobs? The top employers for Living History Interpreter jobs are:
What states have the most Living History Interpreter jobs? States with the most job openings for Living History Interpreter jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Living History Interpreter jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Living History Interpreter jobs are:
Infographic showing various Living History Interpreter job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 2% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $53,349 per year, or $25.6 per hour.

Interpreter / Tour Guide

HISTORICAL SOCIETY OF WESTERN PENNS

Avella, PA โ€ข On-site

$15/hr

Temporary

Re-posted 12 days ago


Job description

About Meadowcroft Rockshelter and Historic Village
Meadowcroft Rockshelter and Historic Village operates in association with the Senator John Heinz History Center, an affiliate of the Smithsonian in Pittsburgh and Pennsylvania's largest history museum. Meadowcroft, a National Historic Landmark, is the oldest site of human habitation in North America and features a massive, 16,000-year-old rock overhang used by the region's earliest inhabitants for shelter. Meadowcroft's 19th century village features a covered bridge, one-room schoolhouse, blacksmith shop, church, and two log houses that create a charming country village setting. The 18th century frontier trading post emphasizes the period of European contact and the impact of the fur trade. The 16th century Indian Village includes wigwams, recreated prehistoric artifacts, and hands-on activities related to American Indian agriculture. Meadowcroft Rockshelter and Historic Village is located in Avella, Pa., Washington County, within an hour's drive of Pittsburgh, Wheeling, W.Va., and Steubenville, Ohio.
Job Posting
The Senator John Heinz History Center, is seeking seasonal, Interpreter / Tour Guides for the Meadowcroft Rockshelter and Historic Village located in Avella, PA.
The Interpreter / Tour Guide leads tours of the museum exhibits, demonstrates historic (and/or prehistoric) skills, and communicates carefully researched historical information to effectively provide valuable information to facilitate successful instruction for a variety of audiences. This position assists with educational programs, living history programs and (in peak periods) Visitor Center duties including gift shop sales and maintaining the cleanliness of the site.
Successful candidate must be able to work as part of a team while maintaining a high level of hospitality, courtesy, and professionalism with all guests and fellow employees. Must have the ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions, and a willingness to wear appropriate period clothing.
This is a Seasonal position available from April through October 31st.
In addition to a weekday schedule, successful candidates must be available on weekends.
Hours per week will vary depending upon tour schedule.
This position reports to the Education and Program Manager at Meadowcroft Rockshelter and Historic Village.
High school diploma or equivalent with an interest in history is required. Selected candidate must possess demonstrated excellent verbal communication skills and extraordinary customer service skills.
Pennsylvania Act 33/34/114 clearances.