EMPLOYMENT

EMPLOYMENT

Working at Olana – Current Openings

The Olana Partnership
Education Assistant (Full-Time)

Department: Education
Reports to: Education Manager
FLSA Status: Full time, Non Exempt

Position Description

The Education Assistant is primarily responsible for assisting in the coordination and facilitation of educational programs for school and family audiences (K-12 onsite and virtual field trips, family programs and tours) and the public (events, public programs, virtual webinars, and classes). The Education Assistant helps the Education Manager and Director of Education with program administration including but not limited to coordinating event registration, marketing, processing payments, and other program logistics. The Education Assistant will serve a key role in facilitating K-12 school visits, family programs, and community engagement efforts. As a member of the educational programming staff, the Education Assistant works to support programs and events that attract a diverse range of participants of all ages, backgrounds, and interests.

The Olana Partnership (TOP) is the non-profit cooperative partner of the NYS Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation at Olana State Historic Site. TOP’s mission is to inspire the public by preserving and interpreting Frederic Church’s Olana. Comprised of a 250-acre designed landscape containing a Persian-inspired house and studio and a historic farm complex, Olana is a master work of American landscape art created over 40 years (1860-1900) by famed Hudson River School artist Frederic Church. TOP’s vision is to make Olana the most widely recognized artist’s home and studio in the world, and since our founding in 1971 we have worked closely with our New York State partners to make this vision a reality. Olana hosts more than 170,000 visitors annually and is a National Historic Landmark. TOP continuously introduces new educational programs to reflect our vision of Olana as a true teaching museum, offering diverse learning experiences like field trips, virtual webinars, workshops and classes, walking tours, family programs, and events.

Primary Duties

Leading field trips and other programs about Frederic Church’s Olana for a wide range of audiences including but not limited to K-12 school groups, families, and adults.

Facilitating and assisting with free programs for all audiences as part of TOP’s “Access for All” initiative and monthly free program days.

Preparing materials and education space for field trips, assisting with field trip requests, and contributing to field trip curriculum development.

Leading regular programs for diverse audiences included but not limited to Panorama art and nature summer youth program, Artmaking in the Afternoon, and Create & Cook.

Frequently participating in offsite opportunities to deepen community engagement such as farmer’s markets, school visits, library visits, and other community events.

Assisting the Education Manager and Director of Education and Public Programs with:

  • general program administration and logistics,
  • event set up and check-in,
  • program and event registration,
  • outreach activities as needed (such as organizing marketing and press release materials, managing outreach lists, organizing website content and revisions, and tracking attendee data),
  • managing Education programming schedule and master calendars,
  • maintaining Wagon House Education Center space and assisting with event cleanup,
  • processing payments and checks,
  • introducing speakers and programs and assisting with phone inquiries.

Works Tuesday-Saturday schedule, 37.5 hours per week; must be able to carry chairs and tables (around 30lbs), walk longer distances during outdoor programs, and work outside in all seasons.

Supervisory Duties

None

Qualifications:

  • Demonstrated interest in art, art education, education, history, art history, or museum studies preferred.
  • Spanish language and/or Bengali fluency is a plus; English fluency required.
  • Prior experience teaching or relaying information to public audiences is required.
  • Experience working with the public, excellent communication skills and enthusiasm for working with school-aged children is a must.
  • An interest in accessibility and equity in museum and cultural spaces; documented commitment to DEI initiatives and accessible programming.
  • An interest in fostering accessible and equitable experiences in museum or cultural spaces.
  • An interest in researching content related to Frederic Church’s Olana to prepare for programs.
  • A visitor-centric mindset and ability to support age-appropriate program facilitation.
  • Outgoing and an ability to work with diverse audiences on and offsite.
  • A reflective approach and ability to think creatively.
  • Ability to work capably and collaboratively with partner organizations and The Olana Partnership staff.
  • Ability to work independently and proactively while being a team player.
  • Administrative experience and keen attention to detail required.
  • Experience using Microsoft Office and Google software (Drive, Calendars, Currents, Docs) a plus.
  • Ability to help with program and field trip set up by moving furniture/equipment and preparing materials.
  • Enthusiastic demeanor and welcoming presence required.
  • Ability to multi-task and work flexibility is required; a positive and unflappable demeanor is a bonus.
  • Current driver’s license required.
  • Red Cross First Aid Certification preferred.

Salary: $35,000-$45,000 commensurate with experience, including benefits (which equates to $17-$22 an hour)

To apply, please submit a resume, short cover letter, and a sample lesson plan demonstrating your past experiences working with youth audiences in an educational capacity to Carolyn Keogh at ckeogh@olana.org.

About Olana and The Olana Partnership: Olana is the greatest masterwork of Frederic Edwin Church (1826-1900), the most famous American landscape artist of the mid-19th century and the most important artist’s home, studio, and designed landscape in the United States. Church designed Olana as a holistic environment integrating his advanced ideas about art, architecture, landscape design, and environmental conservation. Olana’s 250-acre artist-designed landscape with five miles of carriage roads and a Persian-inspired house at its summit embraces unrivaled panoramic views of the Hudson Valley and Catskill Mountains and welcomes more than 170,000 visitors annually. The landscape is open for guided touring, and reservations are highly recommended. The landscape is open daily 8 AM-sunset.

Olana State Historic Site, administered by the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation, is a designated National Historic Landmark and one of the most visited sites in the state. The Olana Partnership is the 501(c)(3) not-for-profit cooperative partner of the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation at Olana State Historic Site.

The Olana Partnership
Membership and Volunteers Associate (Full-Time)

Reports to: Director of Advancement and Marketing
FLSA Status: Non-Exempt-Salaried
Schedule: Monday-Friday (Saturday/Sunday as needed)

Position Description
The Membership and Volunteers Associate has primary responsibility for The Olana Partnership’s membership and volunteer programs. This position requires a variety of administrative and computer skills, a high level of social interaction with a wide range of individuals and groups, and great initiative and enthusiasm. The Associate must be able to work closely with and express a positive attitude and appreciation toward people giving their time and energy as volunteers and their support as donors and members.

The Associate will report to the Director of Advancement and Marketing and have ongoing interaction with all departments, including the President. The Associate will work a regular schedule from Monday through Friday with additional weekend duties, as needed.

Duties and Responsibilities
The Membership and Volunteers Associate is charged with the stewardship and growth of The Olana Partnership’s membership and volunteer programs. Responsibilities include:

A) Membership Program
Associate is responsible for leading a multi-faceted membership program that includes membership recruitment and retention, marketing, and special events. The Associate serves as the overall strategist for the membership program and is the point-person for all membership and high-level donor events.

Among other activities, the Associate will:
• Develop and implement recruitment and retention strategies for membership
• Develop/enhance membership initiatives for businesses and libraries
• Provide management reports and trend analysis of membership program
• Manage membership budget
• Direct member stewardship programs

B) Volunteer Program
Coordinator is responsible for ensuring that the volunteer experience is fulfilling to volunteers and supports the annual activities and mission of The Olana Partnership. This position facilitates recognition and effective use of an active, dedicated, motivated, trained, and well-organized volunteer workforce.

Among other activities, the Coordinator will:
• Oversee and support the volunteer program;
• Recruit, cultivate, assess and place volunteers;
• Develop and implement volunteer recognition programs to steward longtime volunteers and cultivate the newly involved;
• Maintain volunteer records;
• Coordinate annual volunteer trainings;

C) Other Duties
• Coordinate private tours
• Prospect research, as needed
• All other duties as assigned

Qualifications:
• Bachelor’s Degree required;
• Highly attentive to detail and highly organized;
• Sociable and outgoing;
• Excellent written and oral communication skills;
• Ability to work independently and as a team member;
• Computer proficiency required, including Microsoft Suite;
• Flexibility to work irregular hours, including weekends, evenings, and/or holidays, with advance notice;
• A valid driver license;
• Ability to lift 40 pounds in conjunction with special events, etc.

Supervisory Responsibilities: Regular supervision of volunteers

Salary Range: $41,000-$46,000 based on experience. The Olana Partnership offers a competitive salary and a comprehensive benefits package.

To Apply: To be considered, candidates must submit resume, cover letter (describing interest in this position), as well as two writing samples to Melanie Hasbrook. As required by NYS OPRHP, all candidates for employment will be subject to pre-employment background screening, and all offers are contingent upon the successful completion of the background check.

Olana State Historic Site is a tobacco-free environment.

The Olana Partnership is an equal opportunity, affirmative action employer. Candidates of all backgrounds are encouraged to apply.

About Olana and The Olana Partnership: Olana is the greatest masterwork of Frederic Edwin Church (1826-1900), the most famous American landscape artist of the mid-19th century and the most important artist’s home, studio, and designed landscape in the United States. Church designed Olana as a holistic environment integrating his advanced ideas about art, architecture, landscape design, and environmental conservation. Olana’s 250-acre artist-designed landscape with five miles of carriage roads and a Persian-inspired house at its summit embraces unrivaled panoramic views of the Hudson Valley and Catskill Mountains and welcomes more than 170,000 visitors annually. The landscape is open for guided touring, and reservations are highly recommended. The landscape is open daily 8 AM-sunset.

Olana State Historic Site, administered by the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation, is a designated National Historic Landmark and one of the most visited sites in the state. The Olana Partnership is the 501(c)(3) not-for-profit cooperative partner of the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation at Olana State Historic Site.

The Olana Partnership 
Visitor Services Associate (Part-Time/Seasonal)
 

Reports to:            Director of Visitor Services & Engagement
FLSA Status:         Non-Exempt, hourly
Compensation:    $20.00 per hour

Position Description

Visitor Services Associates (VSAs) are the frontline of Olana’s visitor engagement team and set the tone for the overall visitor experience by providing excellent customer service and support. We are looking for curious and hospitable individuals to join a rapidly growing organization during our summer season of May through October 2025.

Responsibilities Include:  

  • Greeting guests and answering questions about Olana, tour types, and ticket availability.
  • Processing and tracking ticket sales in person and over the phone.
  • Assisting Visitor Services Managers with daily tour logistics and other administrative tasks as needed.
  • Assisting with traffic management and safety.
  • Learning basic historical content to assist as needed in the historic house.

 Required Qualifications 

  • English fluency; fluency in a second language is an asset.
  • Commitment must be made for the entire season from May 20 – November 2.
  • Ability to work a minimum of 2 to 3 shifts a week (shift lengths range from 6-8 hours), with a commitment to one weekend day for the duration of the season. Some holiday shifts are required.
  • Attend paid pre-season on-site training days on May 7th and 8th and ongoing professional development and check-in meetings.
  • Ability and willingness to effectively communicate with guests of all ages and backgrounds.
  • Ability to work cooperatively in a team environment and accept feedback.
  • Must be able to work in all types of weather and be comfortable working outside.
  • Basic computer skills (training provided for online ticketing software.)
  • Valid driver’s license
  • Ability to traverse uneven ground, stand or sit for prolonged periods of time both inside and outside, drive an electric vehicle (training provided), and lift up to 40 pounds.
  • Wear an Olana branded nametag and/or a provided clothing element during tour hours.
  • Must consent to a background check required of all staff and volunteers at Olana.

To Apply:

There are two options for submitting applications:

  1. Submit resume and letter of interest in PDF format to hscott@olana.org, with applicant name and position title (Seasonal Interpreter) in the subject line.
  2. Applications may be mailed to:
    Hannah Scott
    The Olana Partnership
    5720 State Route 9G
    Hudson, NY 12543

Application acceptance closes on Wednesday, April 16th.

The Olana Partnership is an equal opportunity, affirmative action employer. Candidates of all backgrounds are welcome and encouraged to apply. If you feel you don’t meet all the job requirements but are interested in working with us, we encourage you to still submit your application.

As required by NYS OPRHP, all candidates for employment will be subject to pre-employment background screening, and all offers are contingent upon the successful completion of the background check.

Olana State Historic Site is a tobacco-free environment.

About Olana and The Olana Partnership: Olana is the greatest masterwork of Frederic Edwin Church (1826-1900), the preeminent American artist of the mid-19th century and the most important artist’s home, studio, and designed landscape in the United States. Church designed Olana as a holistic environment integrating his advanced ideas about art, architecture, landscape design, and environmental conservation. Olana’s 250-acre artist-designed landscape with five miles of carriage roads and a Persian-inspired house at its summit embraces unrivaled panoramic views of the Hudson Valley and Catskill Mountains and welcomes more than 170,000 visitors annually. The landscape is open daily 8 AM-sunset.

Olana State Historic Site, administered by the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation, is a designated National Historic Landmark and one of the most visited sites in the state. The Olana Partnership, a private not-for-profit education corporation, works cooperatively with New York State to support the restoration, conservation, and interpretation of Olana. The Olana Partnership operates Olana State Historic Site in a cooperative agreement with New York State Parks.

The Olana Partnership 
Site Interpreter (Tour Guide) (Part-Time/Seasonal)
Reports to:     Director of Visitor Services & Engagement
FLSA Status: Non-Exempt, hourly
Compensation: $21.00 per hour

Position Description

Olana’s Interpreters (tour guides), engage with visitors by leading public tours. Training in all aspects of the position, including learning historical content, health and safety procedures, collections safety, and customer service will be provided. We are looking for curious and hospitable individuals to join a rapidly growing organization from May through October of 2025.

Responsibilities Include:

  • Leading engaging public tours of the historic house, landscape, Farm Complex, new Frederic Church Center for Art and Landscape, and exhibitions.
  • Learning historical content about Olana’s collection and history.
  • Welcoming guests and providing orientation and general information.
  • Driving an electric vehicle for landscape tours.
  • Ensuring safety of guests and collections while giving tours.

Required Qualifications:

  • English fluency; fluency in a second language is an asset.
  • Commitment must be made for the entire season from May 20 – November 2.
  • Ability to work a minimum of 2-3 shifts a week (shift lengths range from 6-8 hours). Friday – Saturday availability is essential. Some holiday shifts are required.
  • Attend paid pre-season on-site training days on May 7th and 8th and ongoing paid professional development and check-in meetings.
  • Ability and willingness to effectively communicate with guests of all ages and backgrounds.
  • Ability to work cooperatively in a team environment and accept feedback.
  • Must be able to work in all types of weather and be comfortable working outside.
  • Valid driver’s license.
  • Ability and willingness to walk 1-2 miles a day, walk on uneven ground, stand for prolonged periods of time, drive an electric vehicle (training provided), and lift up to 40 pounds.
  • Wear an Olana branded nametag and/or a provided clothing element during tour hours.
  • Must consent to a background check required of all staff and volunteers at Olan

To Apply

There are two options for submitting applications:

  1. Submit resume and letter of interest in PDF format to hscott@olana.org, with applicant name and position title (Seasonal Interpreter) in the subject line. Upon review, a member of the Visitor Services Management team will be in contact to schedule an interview.
  2. Applications may be mailed to:
    Hannah Scott
    The Olana Partnership
    5720 State Route 9G
    Hudson, NY 12543

Application acceptance closes on Wednesday, April 16th.

As required by NYS OPRHP, all candidates for employment will be subject to pre-employment background screening, and all offers are contingent upon the successful completion of the background check.

Olana State Historic Site is a tobacco-free environment.

The Olana Partnership is an equal opportunity, affirmative action employer. Candidates of all backgrounds are welcome and encouraged to apply. If you feel you don’t meet all the job requirements or have missed the deadline, but are interested in working with us, we encourage you to still submit your application.

About Olana and The Olana Partnership: Olana is the greatest masterwork of Frederic Edwin Church (1826-1900), the preeminent American artist of the mid-19th century and the most important artist’s home, studio, and designed landscape in the United States. Church designed Olana as a holistic environment integrating his advanced ideas about art, architecture, landscape design, and environmental conservation. Olana’s 250-acre artist-designed landscape with five miles of carriage roads and a Persian-inspired house at its summit embraces unrivaled panoramic views of the Hudson Valley and Catskill Mountains and welcomes more than 170,000 visitors annually. The landscape is open for guided touring, and reservations are highly recommended. The landscape is open daily 8 AM-sunset.

The Olana Partnership is the not-for-profit cooperative partner of the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation at Olana State Historic Site.

New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation
Natural Heritage Trust
Digitization Specialist (Full-Time, Temporary, 2-year)

 
Job Location: Peebles Island State Park Collections Care Center (Waterford, NY)
Work Schedule: Full-time, 37.5 hours per week, Monday-Friday
Reports to: Museum Registrar, New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation

Position Description:

The Olana Partnership shares that New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation is hiring a full-time Digitization Specialist to implement the research, cataloging, photography, and assessment & preparation of housing for over 1,300 works of art by Frederic Edwin Church within the collection of Olana State Historic Site. The Digitization Specialist will serve a key function in creating the first ever public digital catalogue of works by Church in the Olana collection.

An initial phase of the digital catalogue will launch in 2026 to coincide with the Frederic Church 200 initiative, marking the bicentennial of Church’s birth with a series of exhibitions, installations, and programs at museums across the globe, including a comprehensive exhibition at Olana State Historic Site titled Frederic Church: Global Artist, co-curated by Elizabeth Mankin Kornhauser, Tim Barringer, and Jennifer Raab.

The Digitization Specialist will be based at Peebles Island Collections Care Center in Waterford, NY and report to New York State Bureau of Historic Sites (BHS) Museum Registrar, with research and project support provided by the curatorial team of The Olana Partnership, the 501(c)(3) not-for-profit cooperative partner of the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation at Olana State Historic Site.

Summary of Duties:

The successful candidate, working under the BHS Museum Registrar, will oversee file management, metadata creation, and integration of digital image files into agency database (TMS Collections) records. The goal of this project is to ensure the catalog records for these objects and related constituents are thorough, consistently documented, all while being in line with Division standards throughout the collections database.

Salary: $63,000 with generous benefits package.
Application Deadline: April 30, 2025

Click here to learn more about this opportunity and how to apply.
Or visit: https://www.naturalheritagetrust.org/employment

The Olana Partnership at Olana State Historic Site offers annual internships in different departments and areas of responsibility. Internships aim to teach research and administrative methods and project assignments are tailored to interns’ specific interests. Submissions are accepted on a rolling basis based on availability. Submit a brief cover letter and resume to Carolyn Keogh or call (518) 567-2170 for more information.

At this time, there are no specific internship openings.