Job Position

The Villa Philmonté Curator supports the operational and programmatic functions of the Villa Philmonté and contributes to the overall success of the Philmont Museums as a member of the Museum Team, under the direction of the Museum Director. This position is responsible for the day-to-day operations of the Villa Philmonté, including oversight of the tour program, care and interpretation of historic furnishings, and supervision of the Villa gardens.

The Curator manages seasonal staff recruitment, training, scheduling, and performance, ensuring a welcoming and engaging visitor experience. This role delivers high-quality educational tours and programs and serves as a knowledgeable representative of the Villa Philmonté and the National Scouting Museum to a wide range of audiences, both onsite and offsite.

• Open and close the facility, coordinate maintenance and housekeeping needs.
• Design and install exhibits highlighting the history of the Villa Philmonté, Philmont Ranch, and the Phillips family.
• Lead guided tours; maintain the Villa’s collection of furnishings and archives; support visitors, staff, and researchers with relevant information and materials.
• Develop, implement, and manage a robust tour program.
• Hire, train, supervise, and schedule seasonal staff.
• Continuously assess and enhance the quality and consistency of the tour program.
• Conduct or arrange off-season tours as needed.
• Assist in planning and executing museum events and meetings.
• Conduct research related to the Villa’s history and collections.
• Oversee facility security; ensure systems are operational and protocols are followed during open hours.
• Perform various duties related to museum operations, collections care, and visitor services.
• Carry out other responsibilities as assigned.

• Knowledge of: The Villa’s specific collection, its historical or cultural significance, and its mission; Historic house operations and procedures; customer service best practices and principles; MS Office Suite and other relevant software; standard administrative and office management functions and practices.
• Skill in: Verbal and written communication for interacting with visitors, tour groups, and colleagues; actively listening, clearly explaining information, and responding to inquiries in a professional and courteous manner; prioritizing tasks, managing time effectively, and maintaining accurate records; handling diverse responsibilities and ensuring smooth museum tour operations; use of basic computer software programs, including word processing, spreadsheets, and potentially museum-specific software.
• Ability to: Build rapport and interact positively with a diverse range of visitors, including children and adults; demonstrate patience, empathy, and cultural sensitivity; identify and resolve issues efficiently, either independently or collaboratively, handle unexpected situations or challenges that may arise in a museum environment; collaborate effectively with colleagues, volunteers, and other staff.

High School Diploma or GED equivalency.

• Minimum of 3 years of experience in a historic house tour museum, customer service, hospitality, or educational role, preferably in a museum setting.
• Must pass a criminal history background check.

NAI Certified Interpretive Guide (CIG), or Certified Interpretive Trainer (CIT) preferred.

History or museum background.

Scouting America is an equal-opportunity employer. Benefits include major medical, prescription coverage, dental, vision, life insurance, short and long-term disability, accidental death, and a Match Savings plan. We also offer a generous PTO policy and Scouting America holiday observances.

Since 1910, Scouting America has encouraged personal growth by teaching youth how to set goals and achieve them with determination. Scouting America promotes a culture where youth, volunteers, and employees feel a sense of belonging-where every person feels respected and valued. We welcome families of all backgrounds to help prepare young people to serve as successful members and leaders of our nation’s diverse communities. Join us and help us mold the future leaders of America!