2026 Thorp Mill Summer Interpretive Staff Position

2026 Thorp Mill Summer Interpretive Staff Position

About the Thorp Mill

The Thorp Mill is a National Historic Landmark, interpretive site, and museum located near Thorp, Washington—approximately 10 miles west of Ellensburg in Kittitas County.

Operating from 1883 to 1946, the Thorp Mill was once a hub of regional industry, featuring a flour mill, sawmill, 23-acre ice pond, and electricity generation. Restored in 1987, the site now serves as a museum focused on preserving and sharing local history.

The Mill is open to the public for tours Friday through Sunday during the summer months (June–August) and is operated by the nonprofit Thorp Mill Town Historical Preservation Society.

Learn more at: www.thorp.org

Position Overview

The Thorp Mill is seeking part-time Summer Interpretive Staff for the 2026 season. This role is ideal for individuals interested in history, education, and community engagement.

Schedule:

• Fridays & Sundays: 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM

• Saturdays: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM

• Dates: May 29 – August 30, 2026

• Hours: Approximately 16 hours per week

• Two staff members will be scheduled onsite during open hours

Pay:

• $20/hour (starting rate for new employees)

Key Responsibilities

• Learn and interpret the history and operations of the Thorp Mill

• Lead engaging tours for visitors, including pre-arranged groups (e.g., K–12 students)

• Support day-to-day operations when visitors are not present, including:

  • Routine cleaning of the Mill building

  • Light grounds maintenance (weeding, trimming, general upkeep)

  • Organizing historical archives and documents

  • Assisting with the summer newsletter

  • Contributing to museum and interpretive display projects

Qualifications

Required:

• Must be 18 years of age or older

• High school diploma or equivalent

Preferred:

• Interest in or experience with:

  • Museum studies

  • Local history

  • Public education

  • Tourism or visitor services

How to Apply

Please email the following materials to:

Lisa Ely, Thorp Mill Board Secretary
📧 lisaely1@yahoo.com
CC: info@thorp.org

Include:

• Name, email address, and phone number

• Resume

• Brief statement explaining your interest in the position

Application Timeline

• Applications will begin being reviewed on May 11, 2026

• Position will remain open until filled

• Finalists will be contacted for interviews