Docent (Tour Guide)
Job Description:
This position interfaces with the public and provides a personal touch to Midway’s self-guided audio tour of the museum. Being a docent is probably one of the most rewarding experiences a Page | 4 volunteer can encounter as they witness positive reactions from visitors to informative, yet individually embellished (as appropriate) presentations.
Minimum Requirements: Strong interpersonal skills with a background in public speaking and/or education and the ability to communicate information clearly and concisely. Personal traits of timeliness, reliability and diplomacy are expected. Prior military service is a plus, but not essential. Prospective volunteers must be at least 18 years of age, able to climb ship’s ladders and stand/walk for periods of up to 4 hours.
Training Provided: The docent training course is 8 consecutive Mondays plus an additional morning each week for OJT training covering all aspects of ship familiarization, exhibits, history and interpersonal skills.
Duties: As a docent graduate, you will give brief talks to groups at various venues throughout the ship. All activities are under the direction of the Docent Director, and daily operations are delegated to a Docent of the Watch (DOW), who makes daily watch assignments.
Commitment: After completion of the above requirements and receiving a “yellow hat,” a minimum of 20 hours per month is required. Scheduling is flexible with shifts available 7 days a week; watches (shifts) are 4 hours each in the AM or PM with occasional frequent opportunities to assist at special evening events.