Employment

 
Thank you for your interest in joining the Canterbury Shaker Village team.
The below position is currently open. 

REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS (RFP): Agricultural Use and Management of Historic Gardens

Overview and Background:

In the interest of preserving the historical garden space and honoring the deep and rich history of Shaker agrarianism, Canterbury Shaker Village (CSV or the Village) collaborates with farmers who actively use a portion of the property to facilitate and support local, organic food production while adding aesthetic value and historical interpretation to the landscape. 

The primary goal of this initiative is to activate the historic gardens for productive agricultural use while ensuring the
preservation of the site’s significant historical and cultural values. The selected proposal must be compatible with the site’s mission, vision and values, and contribute to the visitor experience.

With the departure of our current farmer at the end of the 2025 growing season, CSV is seeking proposals from qualified farmers to utilize, manage, and cultivate the designated garden area within the National Historic Landmark property. CSV will provide use of a portion of its land, buildings and equipment and provide an opportunity for a local farmer or farm business to operate on CSV’s grounds. In turn, the farmer (Tenant) will grow and maintain an orderly and visually pleasing garden using organic practices to provide interpretive and aesthetic value for CSV and its visitors. The museum is open seven days a week from 10 am to 4 pm from mid-May through October, and on weekends through November, with occasional activities and events outside of those regular business hours.

Scope of Agreement and Objectives:
The selected farmer/entity will be responsible for all aspects of agricultural production, including planting, cultivation, harvesting, and marketing of products, in a manner consistent with the Village’s strategic plan.

CSV can provide the following rights and resources: 

Land Use: CSV permits the Tenant to grow produce (annual plantings with a preference for vegetables) in the historic garden space delineated on the attached map. The size of the cultivable area available is flexible, likely in the range of 2 – 4 acres for the coming year. 

Building Use: CSV grants the Tenant use of the 1000 square foot Garden Shed and non-exclusive use of a portion of the 30’ by 40’ Garden Barn. The Tenant will keep these spaces clean, tidy, and free of hazards.

Water Use: CSV grants the Tenant unrestricted access to irrigation water from Turning Mill Pond, as well as use of the existing drip irrigation system. Maintenance – including draining the irrigation system at the end of the season – and improvements of the irrigation system will be the Tenant’s responsibility. Overhead irrigation is not permitted.  

Tractor and Equipment: The Tenant will be allowed to share use of the CSV tractor and farm-related equipment. The Tenant will contribute to the performance of basic maintenance on the tractor (e.g. engine oil changes) related to general wear and tear on the vehicle. Tractor repair costs will be split evenly between the Tenant and CSV. A cost estimate must be agreed upon by both parties before repairs are conducted.

Housing: CSV has housing on site and will consider renting living space to the Tenant. Potential housing units can be visited as part of the site visit, if requested in advance when scheduling the site visit.

Additional Requirements: We envision a 3 to 5 year lease but are willing to consider shorter or longer terms. The Tenant and CSV staff will meet once annually, or as needed, to determine whether the agreement is being upheld in a matter pleasing both parties, and to adjust if necessary. Additional requests on behalf of the farmer/Tenant will also be considered.

Read Full Request for Proposal Here:  Request for Proposals – CSV Farmer

To Apply:

  • Interested candidates should contact Executive Director Erin Hammerstedt at ehammerstedt@shakers.org with proposal and request for a meeting. The request for proposal will be open until satisfied.

 

About Canterbury Shaker Village

Mission Statement: Canterbury Shaker Village preserves and interprets the legacy of the Shakers, providing a place for learning, reflection, and renewal of the human spirit.

Canterbury Shaker Village, Inc., is an internationally known non-profit museum founded in 1969 to preserve the heritage of the Canterbury Shakers. Designated as a National Historic Landmark for its architectural integrity and significance, the Village has 25 restored original Shaker buildings, 4 reconstructed Shaker buildings, and 694 acres of forests, fields, gardens, nature trails, and mill ponds under permanent conservation easement. The village houses an impressive collection of historic artifacts made and/or used by the Shakers, as well as books, photographs, and documents. Tours, programs, exhibits, and events showcase the property and collection and help visitors chart their own journey of simplicity, caring, and community. Learn more at www.shakers.org

Equal Opportunity: Canterbury Shaker Village is committed to the principles of equal employment. We are committed to complying with all federal, state, and local laws providing equal employment opportunities, and all other employment laws and regulations.

Note: Job descriptions are subject to change over time. Canterbury Shaker Village reserves the right to modify the above request for proposal as necessary to accommodate the evolving needs of the organization.

Manager of Communications and Engagement

Summary:

As a member of the Canterbury Shaker Village Development department, the Manager of Communications and Engagement will lead the strategic process to communicate our mission, programs, and impacts to various audiences, encouraging visitation, building relationships, raising awareness, garnering support, and encouraging active participation from potential donors, volunteers, and community members.

Employment Type:
Full Time – Exempt

Essential Responsibilities:

  • Develop and maintain a plan for the cultivation and engagement of all constituents, from visitors, attendees and local residents to members and annual donors, as well as leadership, major, and principal giving prospects.
    • Identify and understand different groups of stakeholders (visitors, members, donors, volunteers, staff, board, etc.) and tailor communications accordingly.
    • Manage various communication platforms including digital newsletters, social media, and the CSV website. 
  • Oversee the organization’s message development, ensuring clear, compelling, and impactful messaging that aligns with the organization’s values and resonates with target audiences.
    • Share impactful stories of the organization’s work, highlighting success stories and the positive impact of CSV.
    • Advertise regular and special programs, activities, and events.
    • Effectively communicate volunteer opportunities, providing clear expectations to engage and retain volunteers.
  • Assist in cultivating long-term relationships with donors through regular updates, personalized communications, and opportunities for deeper involvement.
    • Work with prospect managers (staff, consultants, and volunteers) to facilitate regular, meaningful communication with donors per their donor experience plans.
    • Serve as the liaison between the development and the education/curatorial teams to facilitate information gathering and storytelling for grant reporting. 
  • Manage the CSV communication plan and calendar, using various channels to provide information to and engage with multiple constituencies effectively.
    • Maintain an engaging website with content that clearly communicates CSV’s mission, programs, and impact. 
    • Lead a project to incrementally improve the website with input from stakeholders. 
    • Regularly send informative emails to subscribers with news, updates, and donation appeals.
    • Work with other staff to share updates, stories, and calls to action via social media.
    • Actively engage with the community through events, workshops, and other interactions and communications to build relationships and foster support.
    • Lead efforts to follow up with constituents after events.
  • Maintain a positive public image for CSV by addressing concerns promptly and proactively managing communications.
  • Take on other responsibilities, as requested.
    • Provide support to special campaigns

Qualifications:

Education and Experience:

  • A bachelor’s degree or higher degree in communication, journalism, marketing, public relations, or a related field is preferred.
  • Two or more years of experience in communications- or customer service-related field preferred.

Skills and Abilities:

  • Strong communication skills, including the ability to: craft clear, concise, and engaging content for various platforms, tailoring communication styles to different audiences and situations; present information effectively in person and during virtual meetings; and understand and respond effectively to diverse perspectives.
  • Understanding how communication efforts contribute to organizational success, and how to align communication efforts with organizational goals.
  • Exemplary organizational and time management skills. Must be able to manage multiple projects and deadlines effectively.
  • Good interpersonal skills, with a good track record of maintaining strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders, understanding and responding to the needs of others, and handling conflict constructively.
  • Proficiency in using digital communication platforms and tools. Ability to use data to measure the effectiveness of communication efforts and make data-drive decisions.
  • Strong work ethics and ability to follow multi-step instructions and work independently and as part of a team.
  • Strong attention to detail and ability to work with precision.
  • Ability to adapt and adjust to changing circumstances and priorities.

Work Environment:

  • Most work will take place indoors, in an office environment. Some outdoor work may be required.
  • This is a full-time, on-site position. In general, work hours will be between 9:00 am and 5:00 pm, Monday through Friday. Some evening and weekend work will be required, with advance notice.
  • Salary range is $48,000 to $54,000, based on experience, paid bi-weekly. Additional benefits include paid time off, medical reimbursement, and retirement.

To Apply:

Interested candidates should send a cover letter and resume to Cassidy Priester, Director of Development, at cpriester@shakers.org. Please include “Manager of Communications and Engagement” in the subject line. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis. The position will remain open until filled.

Museum Custodian

Summary:

The part-time Museum Custodian is responsible for maintaining the cleanliness and orderliness of the museum’s primary interior and exterior spaces, ensuring a safe and welcoming environment for visitors and staff. This role involves performing a variety of cleaning tasks, including cleaning restrooms, sweeping, mopping, dusting, and trash removal.

Employment Type:
Part Time – Non-Exempt

Essential Responsibilities:

    • Cleaning and Maintenance:
      • Clean and sanitize public and staff restrooms, replenishing supplies as needed.
      • Wipe down counters, tables, chairs, and other surfaces.
      • Sweep, mop, vacuum, and dust floors, walls, and surfaces in all assigned areas of the museum, including restrooms, entries to tour spaces, gallery, offices, and select storage areas.
      • Empty trash and recycling bins, ensuring proper disposal procedures are followed.
      • Pick up litter from around the building and grounds as needed.
      • Clean doors, windows and other frequently touched surfaces, as needed.
    • Other Duties:
      • Maintain a clean and organized work area.
      • Follow all safety procedures and protocols.
      • Assist with other duties assigned by the supervisor.

Qualifications:

  • Education and Experience:
    • High school diploma or equivalent preferred.
    • Previous experience in custodial or cleaning services preferred.
  • Skills and Abilities:
    • Ability to perform basic cleaning tasks, including sweeping, mopping, vacuuming, and dusting efficiently while taking precautions necessary in a museum environment.
    • Ability to follow instructions and work independently.
    • Good communication and interpersonal skills.
    • Ability to understand (audible and written) and speak English.
    • Ability to stand and walk for extended periods of time.
    • Ability to lift and carry objects up to 50 pounds.
  • Physical Requirements:
    • Ability to stand, walk, bend, stoop, and reach.
    • Ability to lift and carry objects up to 50 pounds.
    • Ability to work in a variety of temperatures and conditions.

Work Environment:

  • Most work will take place indoors, in both modern and historic buildings. Because the space to be maintained includes several buildings, time will be spent outdoors moving between buildings daily, regardless of weather.
  • Work will generally take place 5 mornings each week, on a regular schedule, including weekends. The position may require occasional work outside of this regular schedule, with advance notice.
  • Hours may vary seasonally, with more work during the open season from May through October, and fewer hours in the winter months from November through April. An average of 20 hours per week over the course of the year is anticipated.
  • Pay range is $16 to $22 per hour, based on experience, paid bi-weekly.

To Apply:

  • Interested candidates should submit a resume and cover letter to Facilities Manager Todd Muffoletto at tmuffoletto@shakers.org. The position will remain open until filled.

About Canterbury Shaker Village

Mission Statement: Canterbury Shaker Village preserves and interprets the legacy of the Shakers, providing a place for learning, reflection, and renewal of the human spirit.

Canterbury Shaker Village, Inc., is an internationally known non-profit museum founded in 1969 to preserve the heritage of the Canterbury Shakers. Designated as a National Historic Landmark for its architectural integrity and significance, the Village has 25 restored original Shaker buildings, 4 reconstructed Shaker buildings, and 694 acres of forests, fields, gardens, nature trails, and mill ponds under permanent conservation easement. The village houses an impressive collection of historic artifacts made and/or used by the Shakers, as well as books, photographs, and documents. Tours, programs, exhibits, and events showcase the property and collection and help visitors chart their own journey of simplicity, caring, and community. Learn more at www.shakers.org

Equal Opportunity: Canterbury Shaker Village is committed to the principles of equal employment. We are committed to complying with all federal, state, and local laws providing equal employment opportunities, and all other employment laws and regulations.

Note: Job descriptions are subject to change over time. Canterbury Shaker Village reserves the right to modify the above job description as necessary to accommodate the evolving needs of the organization.

 

Visitor Services Associate

Summary:

Canterbury Shaker Village’s Visitor Services Associate seeks an experienced, organized, enthusiastic, creative professional with strong people and communication skills to oversee daily operations of the Museum Store, facilitate memberships, and answer general inquiries made by phone and visitors. Reporting directly to the Visitor Services Manager, Charlie Decker, the Visitor Services Associate is responsible for the routine operation of the Village Store and cultivating membership through the engagement of visitors. As the front-line representative of the Village, qualified candidates will be trained to become familiar with broad Shaker history in order to answer visitor questions. Primary responsibilities include: – Customer service at the highest level – Inventory assistance – Online Store duties, including timely processing of orders – Support marketing efforts as they relate to the Store – Occasionally assist with programs.

Canterbury Shaker Village is open May through November, with this position being offered at 20 hours a week, 3 to 4 days a week, May through October, at $18/hr. Weekends are required. Availability through October is required. Additional hours available through Museum Interpretation and throughout the season. Exceptional performers in this role can progress to Assistant Store Manager with demonstrated capabilities. To apply, please send a cover letter and resume to info@shakers.org.

Employment Type:
Part Time – Hourly – Non-Exempt

Essential Responsibilities:

Oversee daily operation of the Village Store, including:

  • Daily operating procedures including opening and closing of historic spaces
  • Customer service
  • Online sales
  • Assisting with store correspondence
  • Assisting with inventory management
  • Assistance with organization and cleanliness of the store
  • Supporting membership initiatives as they relate to the Village Store
  • Supporting membership initiatives as they relate to the Village Store

 

Desired Qualifications:

  • Retail and customer service experience
  • Ability to quickly learn various forms of technology and software
    • Including but not limited to:
      • Square Retail and FareHarbor Booking
      • Organized and focused
      • Strong, diplomatic team player and good listener
      • Belief in a friendly, welcoming environment for both staff and visitors
      • Creative problem solver
      • Great verbal and written communication and interpersonal skills

Development Associate

This role primarily supports the Development team with a minimum of 75-80% of time dedicated to the Development responsibilities outlined below. The remaining 20-25% of times consists of general administrative support.

Development:

  • Support all Administrative functions of Development, including database entry and management, communications, and reporting;
  • Support Development Events;
  • Serve as liaison to the Vice Chair of Resource Development;
  • Maintain an efficient, productive, and positive office culture for fellow employees as well as visitors;

     

General Administration:

  • Serve as key liaison between Village staff and outsiders, providing information, answering questions, and responding to requests;
  • Manage office facilities, equipment, supplies, and the IT contract.

 

Essential Responsibilities:


Development

  • Execute annual fund appeals and related fundraising activities (ex. NH Gives);
  • Handle and respond to email.
  • Record gifts and maintain records on donors and prospects in Bloomerang;
  • Generate acknowledgements;
  • Create a weekly giving list to be sent to the Finance Manager, Vice-Chair of Resource Development, Chair of Annual Fund, Campaign Director & Co-Chairs, Campaign Counsel, and Board Chair;
  • Create and maintain the development calendar;
  • Schedule and set up meetings, including committee meetings, prospect meetings;
  • Pull reports as needed to support meetings and discussions;
  • Assess filing needs and implement proper filing system for development records.

 

General Administration

  • Provide administrative support to the Executive Director for correspondence and board-related activities;
  • Be communications “hub” for the Village, sorting/distributing incoming mail; answering and directing phone calls;
  • Manage and distribute contact lists for Trustees, Corporators and Committees; update letterhead for stationery and website;
  • Schedule conference room sign-ups; occasionally handle meeting logistics.

 

Desired Qualifications:

  • Demonstrated competence in office administration;
  • Experience in developing internal processes and filing systems;
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills;
  • Strong time-management skills;
  • Proficiency with office applications, and aptitude for learning new systems;
  • Ability to maintain confidentiality of Village information;
  • High school diploma or equivalent required; bachelor’s or associates degree preferred.
This position is being offered at 40 hours a week, at $20-25/hr depending on experience.  To apply, please send a cover letter and resume to kmarcellino@shakers.org
EMPLOYMENT TYPE: Full Time Hourly

Visitor Services Associate

Canterbury Shaker Village, Inc., is an internationally known non-profit museum founded in 1969 to preserve the heritage of the Canterbury Shakers. Designated a National Historic Landmark for its architectural integrity and significance, the Village has 25 restored original Shaker buildings, 4 reconstructed Shaker buildings, and 694 acres of forests, fields, gardens, nature trails, and mill ponds under permanent conservation easement. Tours, programs, exhibits, and events help visitors chart their own journey of simplicity, caring, and community.

Essential Responsibilities:
Oversee daily operation of the Village Store, including:

  • Daily operating procedures including opening and closing of historic spaces
  • Customer service
  • Online sales
  • Assisting with store correspondence
  • Assisting with inventory management
  • Assistance with organization and cleanliness of the store
  • Supporting membership initiatives as they relate to the Village Store
  • Support marketing efforts as they relate to the Store.
  • Assist with special events and programs, as needed.

 

Desired Qualifications:

  • Retail and customer service experience
  • Ability to quickly learn various forms of technology and software
  • Including but not limited to Square Retail and FareHarbor Booking
  • Organized and focused
  • Strong, diplomatic team player and good listener
  • Belief in a friendly, welcoming environment for both staff and visitors
  • Creative problem solver
  • Great verbal and written communication and interpersonal skills

 

Canterbury Shaker Village is open May through November, with this position being offered at 20 hours a week, May through October, at $18/hr. Weekends are required.

To apply, please send a cover letter and resume to info@shakers.org.

EMPLOYMENT TYPE: Part Time Hourly 

Canterbury Shaker Village prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, religion, age, disability, or marital status. Canterbury Shaker Village is an equal opportunity employer.