Become an Electrician with the Smithsonian Institution

Are you a licensed electrician looking to apply your skills to some of the most significant and historic buildings in the world? The Smithsonian Institution is currently seeking a talented Electrician to join our Facilities Management team in Chantilly, Virginia. This role offers the unique opportunity to work within a world-class environment where your expertise directly impacts the preservation of priceless collections and the experience of millions of visitors.

Job Responsibilities

As an Electrician, you are the front-line expert for all things electrical. Your duties will include:

Installing and maintaining premise wiring systems, fixtures, and control circuits.
Troubleshooting complex emergency and standby power systems.
Modifying specialized electrical monitoring equipment to support unique research projects.
Performing interior and exterior electrical repairs to ensure safe operations.

Requirements

To be successful in this role, you must meet the following criteria:

Licensure: You must hold a current or inactive Journeyman or Master electrician's license.
Licensure Upload: Proof of your license is required at the time of application.
Documentation: A valid state or District of Columbia driver's license is required.
Physical Capacity: Must be able to lift 50 lbs and navigate varied terrain, including climbing ladders and stairs.
Flexibility: Must be available for shift work, weekends, holidays, and emergency call-ins.

Comparison Table: Why Work for the Smithsonian?

Feature	Industry Standard	Smithsonian Institution
Work Environment	Typically repetitive	Diverse, historic, and scientific
Benefits	Varies	Comprehensive Federal Benefits
Job Security	Fluctuating	Stable Federal Employment
Impact	Standard maintenance	Preserving national history

Salary Overview

This position offers a competitive hourly rate ranging from $34.71 to $42.63. Compensation is commensurate with your skills and the requirements of the trade.

Benefits

Employees of the Smithsonian receive a comprehensive federal benefits package, including:

Health and Life Insurance.
Retirement programs including pension and savings plans.
Paid leave and federal holidays.
Access to Flexible Spending Accounts.

Application Tips

Customize Your Resume: Clearly demonstrate your experience in electrical maintenance rather than copying the announcement text.
Organize Documents: Ensure your licenses are scanned clearly and uploaded as separate files.
Detail Your Work: Use your two-page resume limit to detail how you’ve handled complex electrical projects in the past.

If you are a dedicated electrician looking for a meaningful career change, the Smithsonian Institution offers a stable, impactful, and exciting environment to grow your skills. Apply today to help us power the future of knowledge.

Why This Electrician Job Matters

Power the world's largest museum complex! We are seeking a skilled Electrician to maintain the Smithsonian’s historic facilities in Chantilly, VA.

Electrician Job Overview

The Smithsonian Institution is hiring a dedicated Electrician to support the Office of Facilities Management. You will play a critical role in maintaining the electrical infrastructure that powers our iconic museums, research centers, and the National Zoo. This position focuses on the installation, troubleshooting, and repair of sophisticated wiring systems, lighting, and emergency power units, ensuring that these world-class facilities remain safe and functional for millions of visitors.

Requirements for Electrician

Possession of an active or inactive Journeyman or Master electrician's license.
Valid State or District of Columbia driver's license.
Ability to perform moderately heavy work, including lifting up to 50 lbs.
Willingness to work in various weather conditions and climb stairs/ladders.
Availability to work flexible shifts, including weekends, holidays, and emergency call-ins.
Must be a U.S. citizen or otherwise qualified for federal employment.

Preferred Qualifications for Electrician

Advanced experience in troubleshooting complex electrical control systems.
Proven experience with emergency and standby power systems in a commercial or institutional setting.
Proficiency in reading and interpreting complex electrical blueprints and diagrams.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Comprehensive Federal Health Insurance options
✓Federal Retirement Program
✓Life Insurance coverage
✓Flexible Spending Accounts
✓Generous Leave and Holiday policies
✓Long-term care insurance availability

💡 How to Apply Electrician Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Electrician Job

Prepare a resume no longer than two pages emphasizing your relevant trade experience.
Gather supporting documentation, including your electrician license and driver's license.
Create or update your account on the official federal jobs portal.
Submit your application through the 'Apply Online' link by the closing date.
Monitor your email for status updates following the review process.

💡 General Tips

Do not copy the job description into your resume; describe your specific, real-world accomplishments.
Ensure your resume includes start/end dates and hours worked per week for each role.
Double-check that your electrician license and driver's license are uploaded as PDF attachments.
If you are a veteran, include your DD214 to receive proper preference consideration.
Submit early to avoid technical issues near the closing deadline.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the pay range for this position?

The pay rate for this role is between $34.71 and $42.63 per hour, depending on experience and qualifications.

Can I work remotely?

No, this is an on-site facilities maintenance position at our Chantilly, VA location.

Is a security clearance required?

This position is designated as Non-sensitive/Low Risk but will require a standard pre-employment background investigation.

What if I have a question about my application?

*A: You may contact the Office of Human Resources via email at [email protected] or call 202-633-6339.*

Is there a probation period?

*A: Yes, successful candidates may be required to complete a probationary period as part of the hiring process.*

Job from Smithsonian Institution

The Smithsonian Institution is the world's largest museum, education, and research complex. With 21 museums, 14 research centers, and the National Zoo, our mission is the increase and diffusion of knowledge. Our Office of Facilities Management (FM) is the backbone of these operations, ensuring our facilities—ranging from historic structures to advanced labs—are safe, sustainable, and ready for the public.