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Avoca Museum is currently seeking an Education and Volunteer Coordinator

Avoca is a landmark on the National Registry of Historic Places because the property is the home site of Colonel Charles Lynch (1736-1796), a colonial planter who distinguished himself as a lawmaker and soldier during the turbulent Revolutionary Era. Additionally, the museum grounds are the site of an ancient Native American civilization, and the site holds significant Civil War, Gilded Age, and architectural history.

Education and Volunteer Coordinator

This 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.

  • 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 4th 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

  • 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

  • 20 hours per week, compensated by hourly rate

    Preferred Wednesday–Saturday, 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM

    Must be flexible to accommodate field trips, community events, evening programs, and occasional weekend hours

(posted 6/27/25, position open until filled)

Mission

Avoca Museum and Historical Society collects, preserves, and interprets the cultural and natural history of the Altavista area and of Campbell County for the education and enjoyment of present and future generations.

Organizational Values

  • Preservation of our Local History—We are dedicated to providing opportunities for our diverse community while conveying the importance of preserving the past

  • Integrity of our Stewardship—We are trusted stewards of the museum’s assets while working towards enhancing them

  • Engagement of a Diverse Team—We work as a respectful and prideful team and are resolute and passionate as we advance towards meeting our goals

  • Collaboration between our Team and our Partners—We possess a strong collaborative relationship with our community and are active contributors

  • Communication within our Community—We value the opinions and suggestions from our membership and community at large to further advance our mission

The Society is completely invested in carrying out our mission and is driven by our core values;

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, please send your resume and cover letter to Caleb Lafoon at director@avocamuseum.org