Fort William Historical Park is one of the largest living history attractions in North America. The park provides cultural, heritage, entertainment and educational experiences for residents and visitors to Northwestern Ontario. Staff in period clothing help tell the story of the peoples who lived and worked in the area in the year 1815. By utilizing story-telling techniques, demonstrating traditional skills, and sharing knowledge from the time-period guest are encouraged to step back into the past. This position assists the Indigenous Heritage Program Coordinator to share the story of the Anishinaabe people of the Great Lakes Region by developing and presenting educational programming to schools, tourists, and other groups.
Fort William Historical Park celebrates, respects and honours the culture, heritage, history, and past and present contributions of Indigenous Peoples. As one of Ontario's significant heritage and culture attractions, Fort William Historical Park aims to represent Indigenous Peoples, their cultures and traditions at the highest standard. Fort William Historical Park is committed to continually improving our facilities and services to provide visitors with outstanding Indigenous cultural programming.
As Fort William' provides a 24/7 operation, you may be required to attend overnight functions, travel to out of town events and off-hour programs, and work on holidays and weekends.
How we support diversity, inclusion and accessibility
We are committed to build a workforce that reflects the communities we serve and to promote a diverse, anti-racist, inclusive, accessible, merit-based, respectful and equitable workplace.
We invite all interested individuals to apply and encourage applications from people with disabilities, Indigenous, Black, and racialized individuals, as well as people from a diversity of ethnic and cultural origins, sexual orientations, gender identities and expressions.
Visit the
OPS Anti-Racism Policy and the
OPS Diversity and Inclusion Blueprint pages to learn more about the OPS commitment to advance racial equity, accessibility, diversity, and inclusion in the public service.
We offer employment accommodation across the recruitment process and all aspects of employment consistent with the requirements of Ontario's
Human Rights Code. Refer to the "How to apply" section if you require a disability-related accommodation.
About the job
In this role, you will:
• Provide assistance in the research, development, training and implementation of Indigenous heritage programs and activities;
• Monitor and evaluate historical interpretations, dramas, tours, special events, education and outreach programs;
• Portray a role in traditional and historic-inspired clothing and participate in historical dramatizations, festivals and artisan demonstrations;
• Conduct research to ensure accuracy in the depiction of programs;
• Provide technical direction to students, and provide information to staff, stakeholders and community interest groups.
What you bring to the team
Specialized Knowledge and Skills:
• You have knowledge of or the desire to learn about storytelling, living history interpretation, drama and education methodologies and applications
• You have knowledge of Indigenous culture, history and perspective
• You have knowledge of or the desire to learn about natural history, period hunting, fishing and trapping techniques, as well as fabrication, construction, and esthetic techniques pertaining to relevant Indigenous material culture
• You have the desire to teach and share Indigenous perspectives and world views
• You have the desire to share advice on cultural program development, and participate in historical programming
Communication, Public Speaking and Interpersonal Skills:
• You can effectively share your knowledge and skills with others
• You have written or verbal skills necessary to share program content and convey key program information
• You have knowledge of or the desire to learn traditional harvesting practices such as birch bark, spruce root, sphagnum moss and more
Group Leadership and Teamwork Skills:
• You can provide guidance and mentorship to staff and volunteers, and respond to customer service related issues
• You can work effectively in a team environment
Analytical, Problem Solving and Research Skills:
• You can conduct research to ensure accuracy in the depiction of programs
• You can develop Indigenous cultural programs specific to audience needs