Become a Facilities Services Worker with the Smithsonian Institution
Are you looking for a hands-on career where your hard work directly impacts the preservation of culture and history? The Smithsonian Institution is seeking a motivated Facilities Services Worker to join our team in Front Royal, Virginia. This is more than just a maintenance role; it is an opportunity to contribute to the mission of the world's largest museum and research complex.
About the Smithsonian Institution
The Smithsonian Institution is a global leader in education, research, and cultural preservation. With 21 museums, 14 research centers, and the National Zoo, we serve millions of visitors annually. The Office of Facilities Management (FM) is the backbone of our operations, ensuring that every historic building, garden, and research facility is safe, sustainable, and ready to inspire future generations.
Job Responsibilities
The Facilities Services Worker role is dynamic and essential. Your day-to-day duties will include:
- Material Handling: Moving, lifting, and arranging heavy equipment, collections, and building supplies using dollies, hand trucks, and hydraulic lifts.
- Equipment Operation: Operating forklifts, gas/LP-powered ride-on equipment, and other machinery to support shipping, receiving, and storage.
- Maintenance: Performing operator-level maintenance, such as fluid level checks, tire pressure monitoring, and general equipment inspections.
- Facility Upkeep: Assisting with custodial duties, including cleaning offices, restrooms, and galleries, as well as managing snow removal to ensure site accessibility.
Requirements
To be considered for this role, you must meet the following criteria:
- A valid driver's license from your state of residence.
- The physical ability to lift objects up to 50 lbs and work in various weather conditions.
- The ability to work flexible shifts, including weekends and holidays.
- Successful completion of a background investigation.
Salary and Benefits Comparison
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Pay Scale | Wage Grade (WG) |
| Hourly Rate | $22.25 - $25.92 |
| Schedule | Full-Time, Permanent |
| Benefits | Health, Life, Retirement, Leave |
Why Join Us?
The Smithsonian provides a comprehensive federal benefits package. Employees enjoy access to health and life insurance, generous leave policies, and a stable retirement program. By joining the FM team, you become part of a professional community dedicated to excellence in infrastructure and logistical support.
Application Tips
- Tailor Your Resume: Your resume should clearly demonstrate how your previous experience aligns with these specific duties.
- Be Precise: Include dates (month/year) and hours worked per week for every position listed.
- Don't Copy-Paste: Avoid using the exact language from this job announcement in your application to ensure your qualifications are evaluated fairly.
If you take pride in your work and want to be a part of a globally recognized institution, we invite you to apply for the Facilities Services Worker position. Your dedication ensures that the Smithsonian remains a beacon of knowledge for the world. Start your federal career today!
Why This Facilities Services Worker Job Matters
Join the team that preserves history! The Smithsonian Institution is seeking a dedicated Facilities Services Worker to maintain the iconic environments that host millions of visitors each year.
Facilities Services Worker Job Overview
As a Facilities Services Worker for the Smithsonian Institution in Front Royal, Virginia, you will play a vital role in the logistical support and maintenance of world-class facilities. This permanent, full-time role involves everything from material handling and equipment operation to ensuring our campuses remain safe, clean, and accessible. If you have the physical stamina and dedication to handle the behind-the-scenes work that keeps the world's largest museum complex running, we encourage you to apply.
Requirements for Facilities Services Worker
- Must possess a valid State or District of Columbia driver's license (copy must be provided).
- Must be able to lift and carry objects weighing up to 50 lbs.
- Must be capable of performing work outdoors in all weather conditions, including exposure to environmental factors like pollen and dust.
- Must be physically able to climb ladders and stairs and remain on feet for extended periods.
- Availability to work various shifts, including weekends, holidays, and emergency callbacks.
- Must pass a pre-employment background investigation.
- Must maintain a bank account for direct deposit of salary.
- Males born after 12/31/59 must be registered with the Selective Service.
Preferred Qualifications for Facilities Services Worker
- Experience in the safe operation and operator-level maintenance of heavy equipment, including propane-powered forklifts.
- Proven reliability and the ability to work effectively with minimal supervision.
- Demonstrated knowledge of building maintenance, custodial practices, and workplace safety protocols.
- Strong ability to interpret technical instructions and specifications.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive health and life insurance options
- ✓Accident insurance coverage
- ✓Robust federal retirement programs
- ✓Generous vacation and sick leave accrual
- ✓Paid federal holidays
- ✓Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) eligibility
💡 How to Apply Facilities Services Worker Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Facilities Services Worker Job
- Prepare a resume that is no longer than two pages.
- Click the Apply Online button on the USAJobs portal.
- Upload all required documentation, including your driver's license and DD214 (if applicable).
- Complete the occupational questionnaire.
- Submit your application package by 11:59 PM ET on the closing date.
💡 General Tips
- Do not copy job description text into your resume; describe your actual duties in your own words.
- Ensure your resume includes dates of employment (month and year) and average hours worked per week.
- Double-check that your driver's license copy is clear and uploaded correctly.
- Review your answers to the questionnaire to ensure they align perfectly with your resume experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary mission of a Facilities Services Worker at the Smithsonian?
You are responsible for the manual labor and equipment operations necessary to keep museum grounds, buildings, and exhibit spaces safe, clean, and functioning for both staff and millions of annual visitors.
Is this a permanent position?
Yes, this is a permanent, full-time federal position.
Can I submit a paper application?
Online application via USAJobs is the standard method. Paper applications are only accepted under special circumstances with prior approval from the HR contact.
Will relocation expenses be paid?
Relocation expenses are not provided for this role, though recruitment incentives may be authorized depending on availability.
Is there potential for career advancement?
Yes, this position has a promotion potential to the WG-05 level.