Launch Your Financial Career with the Smithsonian
Are you a finance professional with a passion for arts and culture? The Smithsonian American Art Museum (SAAM) is currently seeking a talented Budget Analyst to join our team in the heart of Washington, D.C. This is a unique opportunity to apply your analytical skills within the world's largest museum and research complex, directly supporting the financial health of our nation's most treasured collections.
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, the Smithsonian serves to "Inspire Generations through Knowledge and Discovery." Joining the SAAM team means contributing to a mission that educates millions of visitors annually and protects the legacy of American art.
Job Responsibilities
As a Budget Analyst, you will serve as a key financial advisor to curatorial and administrative leadership. Your core duties will include:
- Budget Formulation & Execution: Leading the development and justification of annual budget requests.
- Financial Monitoring: Evaluating real-time expenditures to ensure compliance with institutional goals.
- Strategic Advisory: Providing guidance to management on policy implications and legislative changes.
- Data Analysis: Investigating financial trends and implementing corrective actions to bridge budgetary gaps.
Comparison: Standard Budget Role vs. Smithsonian Budget Analyst
| Feature | General Budget Analyst | Smithsonian Budget Analyst |
|---|---|---|
| Environment | Corporate/Standard Office | Cultural/Museum Setting |
| Impact | Profit/Loss Focus | Program/Preservation Focus |
| Collaboration | Cross-departmental | Curatorial & Research Teams |
Requirements
To be eligible for this position, candidates must meet the following criteria:
- Experience: At least one year of specialized experience at the GS-07 equivalent level.
- Education: A master’s degree or two years of graduate study may be substituted for experience.
- Compliance: Ability to pass a background investigation and follow strict federal employment guidelines.
- Resume Standards: You must submit a resume no longer than two pages that clearly demonstrates your specific experience in budget formulation.
Benefits
Working for the Smithsonian offers a suite of benefits designed to support your work-life balance and long-term financial security:
- Health and Life Insurance options.
- Generous Federal Leave package.
- Comprehensive Retirement planning.
- Flexible Spending Account accessibility.
- Potential for recruitment incentives based on availability.
Application Tips
- Act Quickly: Due to the application limit of 150, we recommend applying as soon as the portal opens.
- Tailor Your Resume: Your resume must specifically address the required competencies listed in the job description without copying the text verbatim.
- Detail Your Work: Clearly state your paid or volunteer hours per week, as this is critical for qualification assessments.
This role is more than just a finance job; it is a chance to safeguard the resources that allow the Smithsonian American Art Museum to share the American story with the world. Apply today to secure your place in this prestigious institution.
Why This Budget Analyst Job Matters
Launch your career with the world's largest museum and research complex as a Budget Analyst at the Smithsonian American Art Museum.
Budget Analyst Job Overview
The Smithsonian American Art Museum (SAAM) is seeking a detail-oriented Budget Analyst to support its financial operations. In this role, you will be instrumental in the formulation, justification, and execution of complex budgets, ensuring that the museum's cultural programs receive the financial oversight necessary to thrive. You will work closely with leadership to develop strategic financial plans and monitor program performance within a dynamic, world-class institution.
Requirements for Budget Analyst
- One year of specialized experience equivalent to at least the GS-07 federal grade level.
- Proven track record in formulating, justifying, and executing budgets.
- Experience managing or assisting with programs in a museum, cultural center, or similar environment.
- Must be a U.S. citizen.
- Males born after 12/31/59 must be registered with the Selective Service.
- Ability to pass a pre-employment background investigation.
Preferred Qualifications for Budget Analyst
- Master’s degree or two full years of progressively higher-level graduate education in a related field.
- Strong analytical skills regarding complex budgetary relationships.
- Ability to communicate policy implications and legislative requirements to management.
- Experience identifying problem areas and implementing corrective financial actions.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive health and life insurance plans
- ✓Generous vacation and sick leave accrual
- ✓Federal retirement program options
- ✓Access to flexible spending accounts
- ✓Potential for recruitment incentives
- ✓Telework eligibility
💡 How to Apply Budget Analyst Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Budget Analyst Job
- Prepare a concise, two-page resume highlighting your specific budgetary experience.
- Create or update your account on the USAJOBS portal.
- Complete the online occupational questionnaire.
- Upload all required documentation, including unofficial transcripts if using education to qualify.
- Submit your application package before the 150-application limit or the closing date, whichever is earlier.
💡 General Tips
- Apply immediately; this announcement may close once 150 applications are received.
- Ensure your resume strictly adheres to the two-page limit.
- Quantify your experience with specific examples of budget management rather than just listing job duties.
- Double-check that your resume reflects the exact hours worked per week for each listed position.
- Avoid copying job announcement language directly into your resume.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the application cap for this position?
This announcement will close either on the listed end date or as soon as 150 applications are received, whichever occurs first.
Can I substitute education for experience?
Yes, you may qualify with two full years of progressively higher-level graduate education or a combination of graduate education and specialized experience.
Is this position eligible for remote work?
The position is telework-eligible, but it is not a fully remote role.
What is the salary range for this role?
The salary for this position is $70,623 – $91,815 per year.
Can I submit a resume longer than two pages?
No, the instructions specifically require a resume of no more than two pages to be considered eligible.
Is a security clearance required?
This position is designated as non-sensitive/low risk, but a background investigation is required.