Become a Museum Specialist at the Smithsonian
Are you passionate about preserving the history and artistry of indigenous cultures? The Smithsonian Institution, the world’s largest museum and research complex, is seeking a motivated Museum Specialist to join the National Museum of the American Indian (NMAI). This role offers a unique opportunity to work at the intersection of history, research, and community engagement in the heart of Washington, D.C.
Job Responsibilities
As a Museum Specialist, you will be the primary steward for over 850,000 objects. Key duties include:
- Collections Care: Maintaining storage areas and performing essential cleaning, dusting, and organizing.
- Research: Utilizing the EMu database and external archival sources to support tribal representatives and academic researchers.
- Liaison Work: Coordinating high-stakes visits for tribal members, scholars, and museum professionals.
- Sensitivity Management: Ensuring all handling and reporting respect the spiritual and culturally sensitive nature of the materials.
Comparison: Experience vs. Education
| Path | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Experience Only | 1 year at GS-07 equivalent in a relevant museum setting |
| Education Only | Master's degree or 2 years of graduate study |
| Combination | Equivalent portions of education and experience |
Requirements
Applicants must demonstrate a high level of expertise in indigenous collections management. You must be able to meet the physical demands of the role, which include standing for long periods, climbing ladders, and lifting up to 40 lbs. A clear background investigation is required for all successful candidates.
Salary and Benefits
The position offers a competitive salary range of $70,623 to $91,815. Employees enjoy the full suite of federal benefits, including comprehensive insurance, retirement savings (TSP), and generous leave time.
Application Tips
- Ensure your resume lists hours per week for each job to prove your experience level.
- Proofread your responses to the online assessment.
- Save a copy of your application confirmation for your records.
This role is an incredible opportunity to make a tangible impact on the preservation of history. If you meet the criteria and are ready to advance your career at the Smithsonian, submit your application before the closing date.
Why This Museum Specialist (General) Job Matters
Embark on a meaningful career preserving cultural heritage as a Museum Specialist for the Smithsonian's National Museum of the American Indian.
Museum Specialist (General) Job Overview
The Smithsonian Institution is seeking a dedicated Museum Specialist to join the National Museum of the American Indian (NMAI) at the Cultural Resources Center in Washington, D.C. This pivotal role involves managing, researching, and facilitating access to an extensive collection of over 850,000 indigenous objects. You will serve as a primary liaison for researchers and community members, ensuring the cultural sensitivity and integrity of these vital historical artifacts are maintained while supporting the institution’s mission of global education and discovery.
Requirements for Museum Specialist (General)
- One year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-07 federal grade level.
- Specialized experience in a museum or historical organization focusing on Native American or indigenous cultures of the Western Hemisphere.
- Ability to perform heavy physical tasks, including lifting up to 40 lbs unassisted.
- Capability to operate manual and automated equipment, including working at heights up to 12 feet.
- Ability to walk, stand, bend, and reach for 100% of duty time.
- Must be a male born after 12/31/59 registered with the Selective Service.
- Must pass a pre-employment background investigation and maintain eligibility for direct deposit.
Preferred Qualifications for Museum Specialist (General)
- Master’s degree or higher in a relevant field.
- Direct experience in managing collections of Native American art, history, or cultural materials.
- Proven research skills using both academic databases like EMu and external tribal or archival resources.
- Expertise in handling and packing sensitive museum items for transport.
- Strong communication skills for coordinating tours and working with diverse stakeholders.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive federal health and life insurance programs.
- ✓Generous vacation and sick leave accrual.
- ✓Paid federal holidays.
- ✓Robust federal retirement pension and savings plans.
- ✓Flexible spending account options.
- ✓Potential for recruitment incentives based on availability.
💡 How to Apply Museum Specialist (General) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Museum Specialist (General) Job
- Log in to your USAJobs account or create a new profile.
- Prepare a detailed resume highlighting your specific experience with indigenous collections and museum standards.
- Submit your application through the online portal, ensuring all required documents like transcripts are uploaded.
- Complete the required occupational questionnaire assessment.
- Monitor your email for status updates and follow-up requests from the Smithsonian Office of Human Resources.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume clearly states the number of hours worked per week for each listed role, as this is essential for credit calculation.
- When answering assessment questions, be honest and ensure your resume provides concrete examples that substantiate your claims.
- If you have a 10-point veteran's preference, include the SF-15 and all required supporting documentation.
- Review your application thoroughly to ensure no required document is missing, as incomplete packages will not be considered.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary focus of this Museum Specialist role?
The role centers on the stewardship of the NMAI collection, including conducting research on Native material culture, maintaining cleanliness and order in storage areas, and managing access requests for the collection from tribal members and researchers.
Can education substitute for experience?
Yes, a Master’s degree or two years of progressively higher-level graduate education can be used to meet qualification requirements.
Job from Smithsonian Institution
The Smithsonian Institution is a beacon of knowledge, housing 21 museums and the National Zoo. Its mission to "increase and diffuse knowledge" is carried out through world-class research and curation. Joining the team at the NMAI means contributing to a vital repository of Native American culture, art, and history.