Master the Art of Preservation: Join the National Gallery of Art as a Plasterer
Are you a master craftsman with an eye for detail? The National Gallery of Art in Washington, D.C., is seeking a highly skilled Plasterer to join its world-class facilities team. This role is not just about repairs; it is about maintaining the architectural integrity of a premier institution that houses over 160,000 works of art. If you have a passion for high-quality finish work and want to work in one of the most prestigious environments in the country, this is your chance.
Job Responsibilities
As a Plasterer, your work will be diverse and highly technical. Primary responsibilities include:
- Mixing, applying, and finishing plaster on diverse backgrounds, including metal, wood, and masonry.
- Taping, sanding, and finishing drywall to create flawless surfaces.
- Reproducing complex, historical architectural moldings.
- Maintaining the condition of interior and exterior building surfaces.
- Ensuring zero adverse impact on nearby artwork through careful chemical and equipment selection.
Requirements
To be considered for this position, you must meet the following criteria:
- Experience: One year of specialized experience at the WG-09 level.
- Skill: Proficiency in mixing/finishing plaster and drywall.
- Tools: Expert ability to use and maintain trade-specific tools.
- Technical: Ability to read blueprints and interpret instructions.
- Screen-out: Ability to perform the work without more than normal supervision.
Salary Overview
The compensation for this position ranges from $34.71 to $40.55 per hour, commensurate with experience and the requirements of the Federal Wage System.
Comparison Table: Trade Roles at the NGA
| Position Level | Responsibilities | Focus Area |
|---|---|---|
| WG-09 | Standard maintenance | General repairs |
| WG-10 | Specialized finishing | Complex plaster/molding |
| WG-11 | Lead supervisor | Project management |
Benefits
Employees of the National Gallery of Art enjoy robust federal benefits, including:
- Comprehensive health and life insurance.
- Generous leave accrual and federal holiday pay.
- Access to government retirement savings plans.
- Flexible spending accounts for healthcare and dependent care.
Application Tips
- Tailor your resume: You are limited to two pages. Make every sentence count by focusing on your technical proficiency in plastering.
- Documentation is key: If you are a veteran, ensure your DD-214 is uploaded immediately to qualify for preference.
- Answer honestly: Your responses to the assessment questionnaire will directly influence your referral status.
The position of Plasterer at the National Gallery of Art is more than a job—it is an opportunity to leave a lasting impact on a national landmark. Apply today to showcase your skill set in a unique, historic environment.
Why This Plasterer Job Matters
Join the prestigious National Gallery of Art facilities team and preserve architectural beauty in the heart of Washington, D.C.
Plasterer Job Overview
The National Gallery of Art is seeking a skilled Plasterer to maintain and restore the interior and exterior surfaces of our world-renowned campus. This role is critical to the preservation of our facilities, requiring a dedicated professional capable of mixing, applying, and finishing plaster and drywall while working in an environment that houses over 160,000 priceless works of art. You will be responsible for everything from architectural molding reproduction to seamless wall repair, ensuring that the Gallery’s environment remains pristine for millions of visitors.
Requirements for Plasterer
- One year of specialized experience equivalent to the WG-09 level in the Federal service or private sector.
- Proven ability to mix, apply, and finish plaster on metal, wood, drywall, and masonry.
- Experience in taping and finishing drywall joints.
- Ability to work without more than normal supervision (Screen-out factor).
- Must be able to interpret blueprints and technical specifications.
- Must pass a background investigation and fingerprinting for suitability.
Preferred Qualifications for Plasterer
- Expertise in reproducing complex historical architectural moldings.
- Demonstrated care and precision when working in environments containing sensitive artwork.
- Strong knowledge of chemical safety to ensure paint and materials do not negatively impact museum collections or staff.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive Federal Health Insurance options
- ✓Life Insurance coverage
- ✓Defined retirement programs
- ✓Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)
- ✓Generous leave and holiday policy
💡 How to Apply Plasterer Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Plasterer Job
- Create or update your profile on the USAJOBS portal.
- Prepare a resume no longer than 2 pages, detailing your specific plastering experience, hours worked, and dates of employment.
- Click 'Apply Online' on the official vacancy page to complete the required assessment questionnaire.
- Upload all supporting documentation, such as DD-214 (if claiming veterans' preference) or SF-50 forms.
- Submit your complete application package before the 11:59 PM Eastern Time closing date.
💡 General Tips
- Use the USAJOBS Resume Builder to ensure all required information is included in your two-page limit.
- Be specific in your resume; do not rely on job titles alone to convey your expertise in mixing and finishing.
- Highlight your experience with historical or artistic facility maintenance if applicable.
- Double-check your email notifications after submission to monitor your application status.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a degree required for this position?
No, there is no formal education requirement for this position. It is focused on specialized trade experience.
What is the work schedule?
This is a full-time position that may require flexibility, including evenings, weekends, holidays, and overtime as needed.
Does the position require a security clearance?
A high-level security clearance is not required, but you must undergo a background investigation and fingerprinting to determine suitability for federal employment.
Is there an education requirement?
No, this position is experience-based.
Can I apply if I don't have federal experience?
Yes, as long as your private sector experience is equivalent to the required WG-09 level.
Job from National Gallery Of Art
The National Gallery of Art is a leading art museum and a beacon of culture, welcoming millions of visitors annually. It serves as a guardian of our shared humanity, housing masterpieces that span from the ancient world to contemporary works. Our facilities team plays a vital, behind-the-scenes role, ensuring the environment remains perfect for both the art and the public.