COMPANY DESCRIPTION: Friends of Fort Knox (FoFK) is a non-profit organization responsible for managing Fort Knox Historic Site, one of the best-preserved Civil War-era military fortifications in New England, located in Prospect, Maine along the Penobscot River. Formed in 1992, FoFK has raised millions to preserve the historical integrity of the 150-year-old site. In addition to the Fort, FoFK oversees the Penobscot Narrows Bridge Observatory, which offers breathtaking 360-degree views of coastal Maine and is celebrated for its innovative design and historical significance. With the assistance of a dedicated volunteer board, seasonal staff, and volunteers, FoFK hosts notable programs, including Civil War reenactments, Medieval Faire, Shakespeare performances, Wizarding Weekend and monthly Ghost Tours and Camps. The organization thrives on its mission of historical preservation and community engagement.

 

ROLE DESCRIPTION:   The Assistant Director will play a key leadership role in daily park operations and financial management of both Fort Knox Historic Site and the Penobscot Narrows Bridge Observatory. The selected candidate reports to and collaborates with the Executive Director to manage restoration projects, accomplish business and administrative tasks as well as those unique to non-profit organizations including membership, grant writing, and fundraising  This full-time, on-site position in Prospect, ME, will oversee seasonal staff, coordinate volunteer efforts, support marketing efforts, assist with event planning/execution, and ensure an excellent visitor experience. The role also involves budget monitoring, fostering community partnerships, and carrying out the organization's mission of historical preservation and public education.

 

CORE RESPONSIBILITIES:

•    Provide business and administrative management (human resources, IT, payroll, contracts, insurance, Annual Report, Charitable Solicitations License/IRS 990).
•   Assist Executive Director in financial management including banking, bookkeeping in QB Online, reporting, budgeting, invoicing, cash/donations, IRS and sales taxes.
•   Oversee all departments (Operations, Observatory, Gate, Gift Shop, Admin, Tour Guides, and volunteers) including staffing/training/scheduling and being able to fill-in as needed.  
•    Ensure compliance with state and federal rules, laws and regulations and recommend process changes as necessary.
•    Perform general office administration role (computer/office equipment, copy/scan/print, shift scheduling, phone/e-mail/mail communication, filing, policy creation, supply and merchandise inventory and ordering).
•    Develop and maintain positive, productive, and functional relationships with staff, volunteers, vendors and visitors often serving as a resource, communicator and collaborator with local community and state entities.
•   Manage organizational website and social media platforms; create/design informational and promotional material, merchandise,
•    Plan, manage and execute small to intermediate sized preservation/restoration projects and fundraising events.
•    Manage FoFK Membership Program (database, solicitation, mail/email correspondence, renewal, recruiting and donations).
•    Assist Executive Director to coordinate scheduling, agendas, minutes and materials (finance and project status reports) for the Board of Directors.
•    Assume other responsibilities or duties as assigned by executive director

QUALIFICATIONS: 

•   Preferred - bachelor’s with 3+ years executive/administrative support role, business and/or nonprofit experience or Minimum – Associate w/2 years related experience.
•   Emotionally Intelligent; maintains objectivity, good judgment, and can solve problems and make timely and effective decisions in absence of the director.
•   Proficiency with QuickBooks, Excel, Word and experience with Zoom, Canva, PPT
•   Leadership and team management skills, including negotiation, de-escalation, and conflict resolution with the ability to supervise and motivate staff and volunteers
•    Strong communication, public speaking and interpersonal skills using correct grammar, robust vocabulary, and appropriate level of judgment.
•    Professional, organized, and detail focused; familiar with office management functions (phone/email etiquette, filing, confidentiality)
•  Skilled in marketing, including managing Website and Social Media platforms (Wix, Facebook, Google, YouTube, Instagram, Twitter/X, LinkedIn) to promote events.
•   Excellent customer service – friendly demeanor, assisting, knowledgeable
•   Demonstrates professionalism, responsibility and ethical behavior in all activities.
•  Able to learn new things and work with minimal guidance yet effectively collaborate, support, motivate and lead others as appropriate.
•  Exhibits accuracy, precision, attention to detail, consistency, and ability to work under pressure and meet multiple deadlines in all work efforts.
•  Experience or interest in historical preservation, museums, project management, or cultural heritage is a plus.

 POSITION TERM: Year-round full-time, on-site - 32-40 hrs. per week, must have flexibility to work evenings and/or weekends as needed. Effective start: mid-April 2026

 COMPENSATION & BENEFITS: $24-$35/hr = $50,000-$70,000/yr based on experience & qualifications; flexible work hours, Paid vacation/time off, Paid family and medical leave per Maine’s state program. Negotiable retirement fund and Health Insurance support options.

 PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS: The ability to sit and/or stand for long periods, ability to lift 35 pounds, bending, walking, driving (golf cart/gator), cleaning, hand dexterity sufficient to manage keyboard functions and visual acuity. Occasional travel will be necessary.  The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate, consistent with a typical office and outdoor environment although there may be unexpected instances of loud sounds.

 We recognize that no candidate will meet every qualification listed. If you are excited about this role and believe your experience and skills will contribute meaningfully to our mission, we encourage you to apply!  The Friends of Fort Knox is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

  INQUIRIES: Contact Dean Martin at admin@fortknoxmaine.com, 207-469-6553 or mail Friends of Fort Knox, P.O. Box 456, Bucksport, ME

  APPLICATION PROCESS:

•  Cover letter (1 page)
• Current CV or resume
• Contact information for three job-related references (at least one supervisory)
• Application reviews begin February 1st, 2026 and continue until the position is filled

   POSITION INFORMATION:

• Department: Admin/Office/Finance   
• Term – Full Time - 32-40 hours
• Schedule: 4-5 days/week-incl 1 wknd day
  
• Time - Varies (usually 9am-5pm)
  
• Preferred Education: Bachelor’s degree or
• Preferred Exp: 3+ yrs admin/exec
  
• Min Education: Associate degree or
  
• Min Exp: 2+ yrs admin/exec