Become a Curation Specialist with the U.S. Marine Corps
Are you a preservationist at heart with a passion for history and archaeology? The U.S. Marine Corps is currently hiring for a Curation Specialist at the Marine Air Ground Task Force Training Command in Twentynine Palms, California. This vital role manages the Combat Center’s regional archaeological and paleontological collections, serving as a guardian of cultural history while supporting military operations.
Job Responsibilities
As a Curation Specialist, you are responsible for more than just storage; you are an interpreter of the past. Primary duties include:
- Maintaining collections in strict accordance with federal requirements.
- Managing the regional Curation Center and its surrounding grounds.
- Conducting research, site monitoring, and restoration tasks.
- Organizing interpretive experiences for the local community, such as school group tours.
- Coordinating with regional stakeholders regarding curation practices.
Requirements
To be eligible, candidates must satisfy the OPM positive education requirements for the 1015 Museum Curator Series. Additionally, applicants need one year of specialized experience at the GS-09 level, focused on inventory management and facility oversight.
Quick Qualification Comparison
| Requirement | Description |
|---|---|
| Education | Degree in Museum Science or applicable field (or equivalent) |
| Experience | 1+ year specialized experience at GS-09 level |
| Assessment | Completion of USA Hire Competency-Based Assessments |
| Documentation | 2-page max resume, transcripts, and relevant SF-50s |
Salary and Benefits
This position offers a competitive salary range of $87,061 to $113,185 per year. Federal employment also includes comprehensive health, vision, and dental insurance, a robust retirement savings program (TSP), and generous paid leave policies.
Application Tips
- Focus on Clarity: Use the USAJOBS Resume Builder to ensure your experience matches the specialized requirements.
- Respect the Limit: Do not exceed 2 pages for your resume.
- Prepare for Assessment: You will need to block out at least 2 hours to complete the USA Hire assessments after your initial application submission.
Serving as a Curation Specialist in Twentynine Palms is a rare chance to merge scientific discipline with civilian service. If you are detail-oriented and ready to preserve our nation's archaeological legacy, apply by the closing date of August 28, 2026.
Why This Curation Specialist Job Matters
Protect and preserve history at the front lines of the U.S. Marine Corps—join the team at the Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center as a Curation Specialist.
Curation Specialist Job Overview
The U.S. Marine Corps is seeking a dedicated Curation Specialist to join the Marine Air Ground Task Force Training Command in Twentynine Palms, California. In this role, you will serve as the lead steward for the Combat Center’s regional Curation Center, managing diverse archaeological and paleontological collections. You will balance hands-on inventory management with public outreach, ensuring that vital cultural resources are preserved, analyzed, and shared with the community. This position offers a unique opportunity to bridge the gap between military operational training and historic preservation.
Requirements for Curation Specialist
- U.S. Citizenship.
- Completion of one year of specialized experience at or equivalent to the GS-09 level.
- Proven experience in accessing, organizing, and documenting inventory collections.
- Demonstrated proficiency in managing facilities housing archaeological, paleontological, or historical collections.
- Must meet the OPM positive education requirements for the Museum Curator Series (1015).
- Submission of a resume restricted to a maximum of 2 pages.
- Ability to successfully complete USA Hire competency-based assessments.
Preferred Qualifications for Curation Specialist
- Possession of a Ph.D. or equivalent doctoral degree in museum work or an applicable subject-matter field.
- Three years of progressively higher-level graduate education in a relevant discipline.
- Experience in community outreach, such as hosting educational events or school programs.
- Strong background in conducting field analysis of cultural materials, including research, surveys, and monitoring.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive Federal Salary
- ✓Comprehensive health insurance plans
- ✓Life insurance options
- ✓Federal Retirement System eligibility
- ✓Professional development and training opportunities
- ✓Paid vacation and sick leave
- ✓Public service loan forgiveness eligibility (depending on individual circumstances)
💡 How to Apply Curation Specialist Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Curation Specialist Job
- Register for a USAJOBS account and build your profile.
- Review the full vacancy announcement carefully.
- Click the Apply Online button and complete all mandatory questionnaires.
- Upload required documentation, including transcripts and SF-50s if applicable.
- Submit your 2-page resume.
- Await notification regarding USA Hire assessment requirements via email.
- Complete the required assessments within the 48-hour window upon receipt of the invite.
💡 General Tips
- Keep your resume to exactly 2 pages; longer resumes will not be reviewed.
- Use the USAJOBS Resume Builder to ensure all mandatory employment dates and hours are captured correctly.
- Proofread your application to ensure all claims of education or certifications are backed by uploaded transcripts or documents.
- Be prepared for the USA Hire assessment; review the testing resources provided by OPM well in advance.
- Submit early to avoid technical issues on the closing date.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the education requirement for this position?
You must hold a degree in museum work or an applicable subject-matter field, or possess a combination of education and experience, or have four years of experience comparable to a four-year degree program. A Ph.D. or three years of graduate-level study may also be used as a substitute for experience.
Is a security clearance required?
No, a security clearance is not required for this specific role, as it is classified as a non-sensitive, low-risk position.
How long is the resume length restriction?
Resumes must be no longer than 2 pages. Submissions exceeding this limit will not be considered.
Job from U.S. Marine Corps
The Department of the Navy, specifically the U.S. Marine Corps, provides a unique environment for civilian professionals. Combining the rigors of military training with the necessity of cultural stewardship, the organization fosters an environment where innovation and tradition meet. Employees here benefit from a stable federal career path, generous benefits, and the pride of contributing to a mission that safeguards national freedoms.