Become a Facilities Services Worker at the Smithsonian Institution

Are you looking for a career that combines manual labor with the prestige of working for the world’s largest museum and research complex? The Smithsonian Institution is currently hiring a Facilities Services Worker in Front Royal, Virginia. This is an exciting opportunity to support the essential behind-the-scenes work that keeps Smithsonian facilities, grounds, and research environments operating smoothly.

Job Responsibilities

As a Facilities Services Worker, your daily routine will be diverse and active. Key responsibilities include:

Heavy Lifting and Logistics: Moving furniture, building materials, and collections, as well as loading/unloading supplies using hand trucks, dollies, and hydraulic lifts.
Equipment Operation: Driving forklifts, gas/LP-powered, and self-propelled equipment. You will perform operator-level inspections, including checking fluid levels and tire pressure.
Custodial Excellence: Maintaining the cleanliness of restrooms, offices, exhibits, and common areas. Tasks involve using industrial buffers, scrubbers, and vacuums.
General Grounds Support: Assisting with snow removal and outdoor area maintenance to ensure site safety.

Requirements

To succeed in this role, candidates must meet specific physical and professional standards:

Physical Fitness: Capability to lift 50 lbs. and work in all weather conditions.
Driver's License: You must possess and submit a valid driver’s license.
Availability: Must be able to work weekends, holidays, and emergency call-back shifts.
Screening: Candidates must pass a background investigation.

Quick Comparison: Facilities Services Worker

Feature	Details
Salary	$22.25 - $25.92/hour
Location	Front Royal, Virginia
Schedule	Full-Time, Permanent
Security Level	Non-sensitive (Low Risk)

Salary Overview

This position offers a competitive hourly rate between $22.25 and $25.92. This is a stable federal position that includes opportunities for standard federal benefits and the potential for recruitment incentives, depending on eligibility and funding availability.

Benefits

Employees of the Smithsonian Institution enjoy a robust federal benefits package:

Comprehensive health and life insurance options.
Retirement savings programs.
Accrued paid leave (vacation and sick).
Paid federal holidays.
Access to flexible spending accounts.

Application Tips

Customize Your Resume: Do not copy the job description. Detail your personal experience with equipment and facility maintenance.
Formatting Matters: Keep your resume strictly under two pages.
Include Details: Always include the hours worked per week and specific dates (month/year) for your employment history.

If you take pride in your work and want to be part of an organization that inspires millions, apply for the Facilities Services Worker position today. Your contribution will ensure the Smithsonian continues to be a world-class destination for discovery.

Why This Facilities Services Worker Job Matters

Join the team behind the world’s largest museum and research complex! Help maintain the Smithsonian’s historic grounds and iconic facilities in Front Royal, Virginia.

Facilities Services Worker Job Overview

The Smithsonian Institution is seeking a dedicated Facilities Services Worker to join our Office of Facilities Management (FM) team. In this role, you will be instrumental in the day-to-day operations and maintenance of our facilities, ensuring that our buildings, grounds, and infrastructure remain in top-tier condition for millions of visitors and staff members. This is a vital position for someone who enjoys hands-on work and taking pride in keeping high-profile historic environments clean, safe, and functional.

Requirements for Facilities Services Worker

Must possess a valid State or District of Columbia driver's license (copy must be submitted).
Physical ability to lift and carry objects up to 50 lbs.
Must be able to work outdoors in various weather conditions, including exposure to dust, pollen, and insects.
Ability to climb ladders and stairs, and stand/walk for extended periods.
Availability to work various shifts, including holidays, weekends, and call-back emergencies.
Must be able to perform assigned work with minimal supervision.
Pass a pre-employment background investigation.
Males born after 12/31/59 must be registered with the Selective Service.

Preferred Qualifications for Facilities Services Worker

Experience in the operation and routine maintenance of motor vehicles.
Demonstrated skill in operating specialized equipment, including forklifts, buffers, and scrubbers.
Proven experience in general facility maintenance, including custodial tasks and grounds upkeep.
Ability to read and interpret technical instructions and safety specifications.
Strong record of reliability and dependability in a physical labor environment.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Comprehensive federal health and life insurance options
✓Robust retirement program options
✓Accrued vacation and sick leave
✓Paid federal holidays
✓Access to flexible spending accounts
✓Potential for recruitment incentives

💡 How to Apply Facilities Services Worker Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Facilities Services Worker Job

Log into your USAJobs account or create a profile.
Prepare a resume that is no more than two pages long.
Ensure your resume lists start/end dates, hours worked, and salary for each job entry.
Click the 'Apply Online' button on the USAJobs portal.
Upload required documents, including your driver's license and DD214 (if applicable).
Answer the assessment questions thoroughly.
Submit your complete application package before the closing date at 11:59 PM ET.

💡 General Tips

Tailor your resume specifically to the major duties listed rather than copying text from the announcement.
Check your application status regularly by logging into the USAJobs portal.
Ensure your driver's license copy is clearly legible before uploading.
Volunteer experience counts! Include relevant non-paid roles if they demonstrate the required skills.
Verify your answers to the assessment questionnaire match the experience detailed in your resume.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the pay for this position?

The pay rate for this position is $22.25 to $25.92 per hour.

Is travel required for this job?

No, this position is categorized as having no expected travel.

Can I submit a resume longer than two pages?

No, the requirement explicitly states that your resume must be no more than two pages.

What happens after I apply?

The Smithsonian will review all applications, which can take a few weeks. You will receive email notifications regarding your status, and you can also track updates via your USAJobs dashboard.

Is relocation assistance offered?

*A: The Smithsonian does not pay for relocation expenses for this role, though recruitment incentives may be authorized.*

Do I need a special license for the forklift?

*A: Training is provided, but previous experience in safe operation is a significant advantage.*

Job from Smithsonian Institution

As a landmark institution dedicated to the increase and diffusion of knowledge, the Smithsonian manages 21 museums, 14 research centers, and the National Zoo. The Office of Facilities Management (FM) plays a critical role in this mission, providing the stewardship necessary to maintain our historic infrastructure. Our FM team consists of dedicated professionals who ensure that millions of visitors have a safe, clean, and engaging experience every year.