Preserving the Future of Flight: A Guide to the Museum Specialist (Aeronautics) Role at the Smithsonian

Do you have a passion for history and the technical skills to restore complex machinery? The Smithsonian Institution’s National Air and Space Museum (NASM) is seeking a motivated and skilled Museum Specialist to join its Preservation & Restoration Unit. This is an exceptional opportunity to handle, restore, and maintain some of the most significant aeronautical and space artifacts in existence.

Job Responsibilities

As a Museum Specialist, you will work under the supervision of a Shop Supervisor. Your primary duties will include:

Restoration & Conservation: Applying professional cleaning, restoration, and preservation techniques to aeronautical and space equipment.
Project Management: Designing and constructing the necessary jigs, cradles, and slings required to safely move and rig delicate, high-value artifacts.
Documentation: Maintaining meticulous reports on project progress and technical restoration data.
Facility Management: Assessing artifacts for degradation caused by exposure and ensuring environmental standards are met.

Requirements

This position requires a blend of technical expertise and physical capability.

Requirement	Description
Experience	1 year of specialized experience at the GS-07/09 level.
Physical Demand	Ability to lift 40 lbs and work at heights of 100 ft.
Work Environment	Exposure to dust, varied temperatures, and hazardous materials.
Documentation	Required resume must be 2 pages or less.

Salary and Benefits

The salary for this position ranges from $70,623 to $111,087 annually, depending on experience and grade level. In addition to competitive pay, employees enjoy the federal benefits package including:

Robust Health Insurance coverage.
Retirement and Thrift Savings Plans.
Comprehensive leave programs for vacation and sick time.
Life and long-term care insurance options.

Application Tips

To stand out, ensure your resume is concise and targeted. Do not copy the job description; instead, use your own words to highlight specific projects where you applied restoration or rigging skills. Always ensure you attach your SF-50 if you are a current or former federal employee to prevent disqualification.

If you have the technical aptitude to preserve aerospace history, the Smithsonian invites you to apply. This role is more than just a job; it is a commitment to ensuring that future generations can witness the marvels of human flight.

Why This Museum Specialist (Aeronautics) Job Matters

Protect the legacy of flight: The Smithsonian’s National Air and Space Museum is seeking a hands-on Museum Specialist to preserve our nation's most iconic aeronautical and space treasures.

Museum Specialist (Aeronautics) Job Overview

The Smithsonian Institution is looking for a dedicated Museum Specialist (Aeronautics) to join the Preservation & Restoration Unit at the National Air and Space Museum in Chantilly, Virginia. In this role, you will play a vital part in maintaining, restoring, and preparing historic aircraft and spacecraft for public display. You will work on-site with large-scale artifacts, ensuring these mechanical masterpieces are protected for future generations while applying specialized technical conservation skills.

Requirements for Museum Specialist (Aeronautics)

One year of specialized experience equivalent to at least the GS-07 (for GS-9) or GS-09 (for GS-11) level.
Must be able to lift 40 pounds unassisted.
Must be able to work at heights up to 100 feet using lifts, ladders, or shelves.
Must be comfortable working in environments with extreme temperatures, dust, or potential hazardous materials.
Must be able to stand, walk, bend, and reach for extended periods.
Must pass a pre-employment background investigation.
Must be registered with the Selective Service (if born after 12/31/59).
Must maintain a bank account for direct deposit.

Preferred Qualifications for Museum Specialist (Aeronautics)

Proven expertise in the preservation, restoration, or conservation of industrial or aeronautical equipment.
Experience in the physical rigging and movement of large-scale artifacts.
Proficiency with museum collection management software and Microsoft Office.
Demonstrated ability to document restoration projects through clear, detailed reporting.
Experience in project planning, including estimating material needs and timelines.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Comprehensive federal health insurance options.
✓Generous paid leave and vacation programs.
✓Federal retirement savings and pension programs.
✓Life insurance coverage.
✓Flexible spending account options.
✓Long-term care insurance eligibility.

💡 How to Apply Museum Specialist (Aeronautics) Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Museum Specialist (Aeronautics) Job

Prepare a resume (max 2 pages) detailing relevant experience and technical skills.
Collect necessary supporting documents, including SF-50 forms (if a current/former federal employee) and transcripts (if using education to qualify).
Create or update your account on the USAJobs portal.
Complete the online occupational questionnaire.
Upload all required documentation via the application portal before the closing date.
Submit your application and monitor your email for confirmation.

💡 General Tips

Avoid copying the vacancy announcement language verbatim; use your own words to describe your actual achievements.
Ensure your resume includes start and end dates (month/year) and hours worked per week for every job listed.
If claiming veteran's preference, ensure you include your Member 4 DD214.
Be specific about your technical rigging and restoration experience to align with the specialized experience requirements.
Review your submitted questionnaire and resume for consistency before final submission.

Frequently Asked Questions

What level of education is required for this role?

Education can substitute for experience only at the GS-9 level, requiring two full academic years of graduate-level study in a related field.

Is travel required for this position?

Yes, the position involves travel, and duties include moving large artifacts, which may require travel between storage facilities and exhibit locations.

Can I submit a paper application?

Paper applications are only accepted in rare circumstances with prior approval from the Smithsonian Office of Human Resources.

Job from Smithsonian Institution

The Smithsonian Institution is the world's largest museum, education, and research complex. Comprising 21 museums, 14 research centers, and the National Zoo, the Smithsonian works to "Inspire Generations through Knowledge and Discovery." Working here means you are part of an organization dedicated to the stewardship of our nation's history.