Heritage Room Invigilator - Rippon Lea Open House Room Supervisor

As an Open House Room Supervisor volunteer, you support the National Trust of Australia (Victoria)’s mission to inspire the community to appreciate, conserve, and celebrate Victoria’s cultural heritage. This public-facing role contributes to the safe presentation and protection of Rippon Lea Estate’s historic interiors while enhancing the visitor experience. Room Invigilator's welcomes visitors, help interpret exhibits and collections, answers questions, provide general information and assist in safeguarding and ensuring the care and security of collection items during open hours.

This role is ideal for individuals interested in heritage, visitor engagement, and museum operatoins in a historic house setting.

Location: Rippon Lea Estate

Meeting Point  As directed by Property Staff (onsite)

 

Reports to NTAV Property Manager and Coordinator

Induction / Information Session 11th August  1-2.00pm

Time Commitment : Minimum two shifts a month 

Day: Tuesdays 
Open Hours: 2-3pm 

Scheduling: Volunteers schedule shifts through My Impact or directly to [email protected]
Work Style: Independent role within assigned room, supported by onsite staff

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Volunteer Duties & Key Responsibilities

• Welcome visitors into assigned rooms in a friendly and professional manner
• Interact with the general public, answering basic questions and sharing information where appropriate
• Provide general guidance to enhance visitor understanding and enjoyment
• Maintain a positive, approachable, and courteous presence at all times
• Supervision of Collections & Spaces, monitor rooms and all displayed objects to ensure their safety and security
• Ensure visitors follow house guidelines (e.g. no touching objects, walls and explain why )
• Maintain awareness of visitor numbers and flow within rooms
• Report any concerns regarding visitor behaviour or object safety to staff
• Support preventative conservation by ensuring objects are not handled or interfered with
• Observe and report any changes in object condition or environmental concerns

 

Skills, Experience & Attributes Required / Desirable

• Strong interpersonal and communication skills
• Friendly, approachable, and confident interacting with the public
• Attention to detail and ability to remain observant
• Interest in history, heritage, or museum environments
• Reliability and punctuality
• Ability to follow instructions and adhere to procedures
• Capacity to work independently while remaining connected to staff support

No prior experience required, training will be provided.

Support & Training Provided by NTAV

• Site induction and role-specific orientation
• Visitor engagement guidance
• Training in room supervision and object awareness
• Ongoing support from Property and Collections staff

Important Notes

• Volunteers must remain in their assigned room during open hours unless directed otherwise
• Do not handle objects unless specifically instructed
• Report any incidents or concerns immediately to staff
• If an object appears broken or has an issue please take a photo 
• Maintain a professional and welcoming presence at all times

Benefits to Volunteers

• Experience in a historic house museum environment
• Development of visitor engagement and interpretation skills
• Contribution to the conservation and preservation of Victoria’s heritage
• Opportunity to work alongside NTAV staff and volunteers
• Access to NTAV volunteer programs, events, and networks

Documents Required

• Working With Children Check (WWCC)
• Police Check