The Henry Ford is a nonprofit organization, an internationally recognized cultural destination, and a one-of-a-kind workplace. The Henry Ford provides unique educational experiences based on authentic objects, stories, and lives from America's traditions of ingenuity, resourcefulness and innovation. Our purpose is to inspire people to learn from these traditions to help shape a better future. Our team is inspired daily by one another as well as the authentic stories of innovation that we share across our four venues. We want you to be part of this legacy and take it forward and that aligns with our core values of being Welcoming, Curious, Authentic, and Passionate.
Greenfield Village's Weavers support the daily operations of the Weaving Shop by producing and demonstrating historic and contemporary textiles. This role creates engaging, mission-based experiences for guests while maintaining high standards of craftsmanship and supporting daily shop operations. Working closely with the Head of Exhibitions and Performances, the Weaver helps preserve traditional textile arts and contributes to the successful delivery of Greenfield Village's daily programming and an exceptional visitor experience.
Essential Responsibilities
- Demonstrate historic and contemporary weaving techniques, deliver mission-based presentations, and provide exceptional hospitality and service to guests
- Design, produce, and develop textiles for retail sales, special orders, historic sites, awards, catalogs, and new product offerings
- Develop team work schedules, establish production priorities and quotas, and coordinate the timely fulfillment of production orders
- Partner with the Liberty Craftworks Program Team and the Head of Exhibitions and Performances to maintain the Weaving Shop, equipment, tools, and overall presentation of the work environment
- Perform routine maintenance, cleaning, and organization of tools, equipment, and workspaces while ensuring compliance with OSHA and SDS standards
- Foster clear communication, collaboration, and a positive team culture while contributing to problem-solving, continuous improvement, and operational success
- Serve as a knowledgeable resource by maintaining and sharing expertise in textile history, theory, techniques, standards, and best practices across teams
- Perform other duties as assigned
Qualifications
- College coursework in weaving or equivalent experience in a textile production environment
- Availability to work weekdays, weekends, evenings, and holidays
- Knowledge of or interest in American technological history or textile history preferred
Special Skills
- Demonstrated proficiency in weaving techniques and textile production
- Strong oral and written communication, interpersonal, and public presentation skills
- Ability to engage and educate guests of all ages through demonstrations and historical interpretation
- Strong collaboration skills with the ability to work effectively as part of a team
- Excellent organizational, problem-solving, and time management skills
- Commitment to quality craftsmanship and attention to detail
PHYSICAL / MENTAL / ENVIRONMENTAL:
Physical: Standing, Walking: Typical. Lifting, and carrying: Occasional, up to 50 lbs. Tolerance for hot and cold temperatures preferred. Unless noted here, other physical requirements are minimal or not applicable. Ability to safely operate heavy machinery and aerial lifts. Ability to operate and maintain light grounds equipment and tools
Vision: Normal
Mental: Observation, analysis, interpretation, decision-making, and multitasking. Ability to assess guest needs and interests and respond appropriately. Ability to work effectively under pressure and in large crowds. Strong attention to detail and concentration. Ability to manage multiple projects and competing priorities simultaneously. Ability to maintain focus despite frequent interruptions, noise, commotion, and questions from guests.
Environment: Must be able to work outdoors in all seasons (including sunny and inclement weather) as necessary. Non-air-conditioned interiors with exposure to dust. Flexibility with on-call scheduling and availability as needed during evenings, weekends, and short-notice situations.
