Job Listing: Education and Volunteer Coordinator (Avoca Museum & Historical Society)

Education and Volunteer Coordinator

Location: Avoca Museum 1514 Main Street Altavista, VA 24517
Hourly Rate: $16 per hour
Schedule: 20 hours per week. Wednesday–Saturday, 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM; must be flexible to accommodate field trips, community events, evening programs, and occasional weekend hours)
Time Off: Unpaid time off available

Reports to: Executive Director

Position Summary: The Education and Volunteer Coordinator is a key part-time team member who supports the museum’s educational mission by developing and leading programs, managing volunteers, and operating the gift shop. This position requires someone who is organized, friendly, and committed to inclusive and engaging community history. The role involves working with schools, colleges, families, seniors, and the general public while ensuring smooth day-to-day operations.

Essential Functions & Responsibilities

Educational Programs

• Plan and lead year-round educational programs for K–12 students, homeschool groups, families, seniors, and individuals with disabilities
• Promote field trip opportunities to schools, colleges, and community organizations
• Deliver guided tours and classroom-aligned activities based on Virginia Standards of Learning (SOLs)
• Coordinate seasonal youth programming such as scout programs, summer learning activities, and family workshops
• Support and assist with major museum events including any and all historical events, July 4^th celebration, Student Event Day, Night at the Museum, Lectures, traveling exhibits, and the volunteer dinner. 
• Maintain records for reservations, invoicing, correspondence, attendance, and program evaluations (only as it relates to historical or educational programming).
• Work with the museum’s marketing staff to promote programs online and in print
• Assist in developing new educational initiatives and evaluate program effectiveness

Volunteer Services

• Recruit, train, schedule, and support all museum volunteers, including docents, educators, gift shop assistants, and event staff
• Set and manage a consistent weekly docent schedule to ensure tour coverage during museum hours
• Assign and oversee volunteers for community events, education programs, and museum operations
• Track and report volunteer hours to the Executive Director
• Maintain volunteer manuals, training guides, and role descriptions
• Coordinate recognition and appreciation of volunteer service

Gift Shop Management

• Oversee daily operation of the museum gift shop
• Submit regular sales reports to the Executive Director
• Order new merchandise and maintain inventory
• Ensure the shop is tidy, welcoming, and well-stocked
• Train and schedule volunteers to run the shop during absences

General Responsibilities

• Represent the museum at school fairs, community events, and outreach opportunities
• Assist with front desk and general visitor services when needed
• Be available for occasional evenings or weekends for special programs and events
• May involve extended standing, public speaking, working outdoors, and lifting up to 25 lbs

Position Qualifications

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Education, History, Museum Studies, American Studies, or a related field OR equivalent combination of education and experience
• Minimum age 18 with valid driver’s license and reliable transportation
• Strong organizational and time management skills
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to multitask and work independently or collaboratively
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office, Google Drive, Gmail, and Zoom
• Friendly and professional demeanor with a strong public service ethic
• Willingness to work a flexible schedule as needed

Preferred Qualifications:

• Previous experience working in a museum, historic site, classroom, or nonprofit setting
• Experience creating and delivering youth or public education programs
• Familiarity with early American history and 18th–19th-century material culture
• Experience coordinating volunteers or leading teams
• Retail, customer service, or point-of-sale (POS) system experience
• Commitment to inclusive interpretation and engaging multiple perspectives in historical storytelling

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods
• Ability to climb stairs and lift/carry up to 25 pounds
• Comfort working both indoors and outdoors in various weather conditions

Avoca Museum is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, sexual orientation, or any other characteristic protected by law. 

To Apply: Here's our website link: https://www.avocamuseum.org/join-our-staff or if you have questions, please contact: Caleb Lafoon at director@avocamuseum.org

Avoca Museum & Historical Society is a 501c3 non-profit dedicated to collecting, preserving, and

 interpreting, the cultural and natural history of the Altavista area and of Campbell County for the education and enjoyment of present and future generations