Become an Exhibit Specialist at the National Museum

Are you looking to merge your technical craftsmanship with a career that preserves history? The Department of the Navy is looking for an enthusiastic Exhibit Specialist to join the National Museum team. This position offers the chance to work behind the scenes in one of the most significant cultural institutions in Washington, D.C.

Job Responsibilities

The Exhibit Specialist role is hands-on and multifaceted. Your primary duties will include:

Planning and Fabrication: You will translate rough sketches and scale layouts into tangible, professional-grade museum exhibits.
Surface Preparation: Executing all phases of material prep, from painting to molding, using various hand and power tools.
Technical Problem Solving: Utilizing your expertise to resolve hardware, electronic, or structural challenges within complex exhibit installations.
Communication: Coordinating with teams inside and outside the organization to ensure project milestones are met.

Requirements

To be considered, candidates must demonstrate:

A strong foundation in specialized exhibit production.
Ability to interpret technical schematics.
Adherence to federal application guidelines, specifically the 2-page resume limit.

Comparison Table: GS-09 vs GS-11 Requirements

Feature	GS-09 Level	GS-11 Level
Scope	Small/Medium Settings	Large/Industrial Settings
Primary Focus	Assistance & Production	Design & Implementation
Education Substitution	Master’s or 2 years Grad study	PhD or 3 years Grad study

Salary and Benefits

The position offers a competitive salary range of $70,623 to $111,087 per year, commensurate with grade level and experience. Federal benefits include comprehensive health coverage, a generous retirement package, and ample paid time off.

Application Tips

Tailor Your Resume: Make sure your descriptions highlight your specific experience with tools, materials, and project management.
Mind the Limits: Do not ignore the 2-page limit; human resources will not process applications that exceed this requirement.
Assessments: Be prepared to set aside at least two hours for the USA Hire assessment if you are invited to complete it.

If you have the technical skills and the desire to serve, we encourage you to apply. This is a rare opportunity to contribute to the legacy of the U.S. Navy through the art of exhibition.

Why This Exhibit Specialist (General) Job Matters

Bring history to life: Join the National Museum as an Exhibit Specialist and shape the way the world views naval heritage.

Exhibit Specialist (General) Job Overview

The Department of the Navy is seeking a skilled and creative Exhibit Specialist to join the National Museum team at the Washington Navy Yard. This role is central to the museum's mission, involving the full lifecycle of exhibit development—from initial design concepts and fabrication to installation and long-term maintenance. If you have a passion for craftsmanship, technical precision, and storytelling through physical space, this is a unique opportunity to contribute to a premier institution.

Requirements for Exhibit Specialist (General)

Must be a U.S. Citizen.
Must meet specialized experience requirements equivalent to at least one year at the GS-09 or GS-07 grade level, depending on the target grade.
Must be able to pass a background security investigation.
Resume must be limited to 2 pages.
Must complete USA Hire competency assessments if prompted.
Relevant education or a combination of education and experience may be substituted for professional experience.

Preferred Qualifications for Exhibit Specialist (General)

Advanced technical expertise in carpentry, plastics, painting, or molding.
Proven track record in interpreting technical blueprints and scale drawings.
Experience with mounting, matting, and framing museum-grade artifacts.
Strong oral and written communication skills for cross-functional project management.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Competitive Federal Salary
✓Comprehensive Health Insurance
✓Retirement Savings Plan (FERS)
✓Paid Federal Holidays
✓Annual and Sick Leave accrual
✓Professional Development and Training
✓Telework opportunities where applicable

💡 How to Apply Exhibit Specialist (General) Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Exhibit Specialist (General) Job

Review the full vacancy announcement thoroughly.
Prepare a resume that is strictly 2 pages or less, detailing relevant experience.
Click the Apply Online button and complete the required questionnaires.
Upload all necessary supporting documentation, such as transcripts or SF-50s.
Submit your application package by the closing date.
Monitor your email for a link to the USA Hire assessment, if required.

💡 General Tips

Use the USAJOBS Resume Builder to ensure all required information—such as hours per week and pay scales—is captured correctly.
Double-check your resume page count before submitting; exceeding 2 pages will result in your application not being considered.
Start the application early to allow time for the USA Hire assessment.
Redact sensitive personal information (like SSN) from documents unless specifically asked for unredacted originals.
If you are a current or former federal employee, ensure your SF-50 clearly demonstrates your time-in-grade eligibility.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I substitute education for experience?

Yes, for both GS-09 and GS-11 levels, applicants may substitute relevant graduate education or a combination of education and experience, provided it aligns with the requirements of the occupational series.

Is a security clearance required?

The position requires an 'Other' security clearance level; specific details regarding your eligibility will be provided during the hiring process.

Job from Immediate Office Of The Chief Of Naval Operations

The National Museum, under the Department of the Navy, is dedicated to capturing and sharing the history of the Navy. Civilian employees here play a critical role, working alongside military personnel to safeguard our nation's freedoms and heritage. The environment is collaborative, innovative, and deeply rooted in a sense of purpose.