Become a Materials Handler at the Library of Congress
The Library of Congress, the world’s largest library and the nation’s oldest federal cultural institution, is currently seeking a highly motivated and skilled individual to fill the role of Materials Handler. If you have experience in logistics, warehouse operations, and equipment handling, this is your chance to support the essential functions that allow the Library to preserve and promote knowledge for the American public.
Job Responsibilities
As a Materials Handler, you will be instrumental in the daily operations of the Logistics Services Division. Your duties will include:
- Equipment Operation: Operating forklifts, power jacks, and transporters to move heavy goods safely.
- Logistics & Inventory: Conducting inventory reviews, reporting discrepancies, and preparing materials for shipment.
- Facility Support: Assisting with the placement of furniture and equipment based on architectural floor plans and diagrams.
- Specialized Handling: Ensuring the safe storage and transit of hazardous materials in compliance with safety regulations.
- Installation: Performing light maintenance, such as cutting and installing carpet tiles and erecting partitions.
Requirements
To be considered for this position, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Licensure: You must possess a valid state motor vehicle operator's license and a current forklift operator's certification.
- Physical Capacity: The role requires frequent lifting and carrying of items weighing up to 40 pounds.
- Compliance: You must pass a physical examination every two years and meet the Library's health and safety standards.
- Drug Policy: As a federal agency, the Library enforces a strict drug-free workplace policy, which includes a prohibition against marijuana use regardless of local or state law.
Salary & Benefits
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Salary Range | $26.74 - $31.19 per hour |
| Schedule | Flexitime |
| Employment Type | Permanent/Excepted Service |
Employees enjoy competitive federal benefits, including health insurance, the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP), and potential student loan repayment options.
Application Tips
- Stay Organized: Ensure all your certifications (forklift/license) are ready to upload.
- Follow Instructions: Use the online application portal exclusively; emails and mailed documents are not accepted.
- Preview Questions: Review the assessment questions before you begin the application to ensure your resume reflects the required skills.
Serving the Library of Congress is a unique privilege. If you are a safety-conscious professional with a background in logistics, we encourage you to apply. This role offers stability, benefits, and the pride of working for one of the most significant institutions in the United States.
Why This Materials Handler Job Matters
Join the Logistics Services Division at the Library of Congress and play a vital role in managing the nation's most precious historical assets.
Materials Handler Job Overview
The Library of Congress is seeking a dedicated Materials Handler to join our Integrated Support Services team. In this position, you will be responsible for the safe and efficient movement, storage, and inventory management of supplies, furniture, and historical materials across our Capitol Hill facilities. This is an open continuous announcement for a non-supervisory, bargaining unit position based in Washington, D.C.
Requirements for Materials Handler
- Must possess a valid state motor vehicle operator's license.
- Must hold a current forklift operator's certification.
- Ability to lift and carry items weighing up to 40 pounds on a recurring basis.
- Must be able to pass a physical examination every two years.
- Must be physically qualified by the Library's Health Office prior to commencing work.
- Adherence to federal drug-free workplace policies (no illegal drug use, including marijuana).
Preferred Qualifications for Materials Handler
- Experience in warehouse procedures and materials handling.
- Proficiency in operating warehouse equipment such as power jacks, transporters, and forklifts.
- Ability to interpret floor plans, legends, and scales for furniture and equipment placement.
- Experience with hazardous materials handling and associated safety regulations.
- Strong interpersonal skills and ability to work effectively with diverse teams.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Federal health, vision, and dental insurance programs
- ✓Participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS)
- ✓Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) with government matching contributions
- ✓Flexible work schedules (Flexitime)
- ✓Opportunities for professional development and training
- ✓Potential for student loan repayment assistance
💡 How to Apply Materials Handler Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Materials Handler Job
- Create or update your profile on USAJOBS.
- Review the full vacancy announcement and preview the online assessment questions.
- Click the 'Apply Online' button to be redirected to the Hiring Management portal.
- Complete the eligibility questionnaire and answer the vacancy-specific assessment questions.
- Upload all required documentation, such as your resume, driver's license, and relevant certifications.
- Review and finalize your application before the closing date.
💡 General Tips
- Customize your resume to highlight experience directly related to the required skills.
- Combine all documents of the same type into a single file to ensure the system processes them correctly.
- Apply well before the cutoff dates to be included in the periodic referral cycles.
- Double-check that your forklift certification and driver's license are current and clearly documented.
- Contact the provided email address for technical support immediately if you encounter issues.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an open continuous announcement?
This means the job remains open for an extended period, and the agency will review applications at specific, recurring intervals until the vacancy is filled.
Do I need a security clearance?
Yes, appointment to the position is subject to a favorable evaluation of a personnel security and suitability investigation.
Is telework allowed?
No, this position is not eligible for telework due to the on-site nature of materials handling and logistics duties.
Job from Library Of Congress
The Library of Congress is the primary research arm of the United States Congress and a vital source of information for the world. Located on Capitol Hill, it manages over 158 million items in its physical collections. Working here means contributing to an agency that preserves the intellectual legacy of the United States.