Lead Collections Management: Supervisory Museum Specialist at the Smithsonian
Are you a seasoned professional with a passion for preservation and leadership? The Smithsonian Institution is looking for a dedicated Supervisory Museum Specialist (Offsite) to join the National Museum of American History (NMAH). This is a unique opportunity to oversee the logistics, preservation, and management of one of the world's most significant historical collections.
Job Responsibilities
As a Supervisory Museum Specialist, you will act as a key leader within the Collections Management Office. Your daily duties will include:
- Team Leadership: Supervising and mentoring staff to ensure high standards of collections care.
- Project Oversight: Planning and executing complex projects involving the movement and storage of historical artifacts.
- Strategic Coordination: Integrating collections management objectives with broader museum goals to ensure seamless display and preservation access.
- Safety Management: Maintaining a secure work environment, including the use of PPE and specialized equipment.
Requirements
To be considered, applicants must meet specific federal requirements:
- One year of specialized experience at the GS-11 level or equivalent.
- Ability to lift 40 lbs regularly.
- Proficiency in operating museum-specific equipment and software.
- Possession of a valid driver's license.
- Ability to work in varied temperatures and outdoor weather conditions.
Requirements Comparison
| Requirement | Description |
|---|---|
| Experience | Min. 1 year at GS-11 equivalent |
| Physicality | Lifting 40 lbs, working at heights |
| Certification | FAC-COR Level I (required upon hire) |
| License | Valid state driver's license |
Salary Overview
This position offers a competitive federal salary range of $102,415 to $133,142 per year, commensurate with experience and federal pay scale regulations.
Benefits
The Smithsonian provides a robust federal benefits package, including:
- Health and Life Insurance
- Retirement plans
- Paid vacation, sick leave, and federal holidays
- Flexible spending accounts
Application Tips
- Customize Your Resume: Avoid copy-pasting the job description. Use your own words to explain how your previous roles match the duties listed.
- Mind the Limit: Your resume must be two pages or fewer.
- Include Proper Documentation: If you are a current federal employee, ensure your SF-50 includes all required details to prove your eligibility.
If you have the leadership skills and technical expertise to manage the nation's history, apply today to join the Smithsonian Institution team in Suitland, Maryland.
Why This Supervisory Museum Specialist (Offsite) Job Matters
Lead the preservation of America's history at the Smithsonian Institution, managing complex collections and a dedicated team in this high-impact leadership role.
Supervisory Museum Specialist (Offsite) Job Overview
The Smithsonian Institution is seeking a highly skilled Supervisory Museum Specialist (Offsite) to join the National Museum of American History (NMAH). Based in Suitland, Maryland, this permanent, full-time leadership position is responsible for overseeing collections management functions, ensuring the proper care, storage, and accessibility of over 1.8 million historical objects. You will guide a professional team in preservation initiatives, project management, and the sophisticated logistical movement of artifacts, ensuring that our nation's history remains protected for future generations.
Requirements for Supervisory Museum Specialist (Offsite)
- One year of specialized experience equivalent to at least the GS-11 grade level in Federal Service.
- Proven experience in collections management, including object preservation, storage, and documentation.
- Demonstrated ability to supervise, lead, and motivate staff in a museum or cultural heritage setting.
- Must be able to lift up to 40 lbs unassisted and perform physical tasks like bending, reaching, and standing for long periods.
- Willingness to work in various weather conditions and temperatures (30 to 90 degrees F).
- Must obtain and maintain FAC-COR Level I Certification.
- Must possess a valid state driver's license for operating Smithsonian vehicles.
- Completion of forklift training required upon hire.
Preferred Qualifications for Supervisory Museum Specialist (Offsite)
- Advanced technical knowledge of museum collection information systems.
- Expertise in logistics for the physical movement and installation/deinstallation of museum artifacts.
- Strong oral communication skills for effective team leadership and stakeholder presentations.
- Experience managing large-scale, complex collections projects.
- Knowledge of safety protocols and personal protective equipment (PPE) standards in a museum environment.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive health and life insurance options.
- ✓Generous vacation and sick leave accrual.
- ✓Federal holiday leave.
- ✓Excellent retirement program options.
- ✓Access to flexible spending accounts.
- ✓Recruitment incentives may be authorized for eligible candidates.
💡 How to Apply Supervisory Museum Specialist (Offsite) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Supervisory Museum Specialist (Offsite) Job
- Prepare a resume that is strictly limited to two pages.
- Ensure your resume details specific dates (month/year) and hours worked per week.
- Gather relevant SF-50 forms if you are a current or former Federal employee to prove status and time-in-grade.
- Access the official application portal via the link provided.
- Submit your complete application package by 11:59 PM ET on the closing date.
- Monitor your email for status updates from the Office of Human Resources.
💡 General Tips
- Do not copy job description language into your resume; focus on describing your specific, actual accomplishments.
- Review your resume carefully to ensure it aligns with the Specialized Experience requirements.
- Be sure to account for all hours worked if you are including volunteer or part-time experience.
- Ensure your SF-50 clearly shows your position title, series, grade, and length of time in grade.
- Use the USAJobs resume builder if you need assistance structuring your experience to meet federal standards.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary location for this position?
This position is located in Suitland, Maryland.
Is relocation assistance provided?
No, the Smithsonian Institution does not pay for relocation expenses for this position.
What is the resume length requirement?
Your resume must not exceed two pages in length.
Are there physical requirements for this role?
Yes, you must be able to lift 40 lbs, operate lifting equipment, wear required PPE, and work in varied weather conditions.
Can I apply if I don't have federal experience?
Applicants must possess the specialized experience equivalent to a GS-11 level to qualify.
What is the physical work environment like?
You will work in a range of conditions, including outdoor environments with temperatures between 30 and 90 degrees Fahrenheit.
Job from Smithsonian Institution
The Smithsonian Institution is the world's largest museum, education, and research complex. Comprising 21 museums and the National Zoo, the Smithsonian serves as a steward of our nation's history. The Office of Collections at the NMAH manages over 1.8 million objects, requiring expert oversight to ensure these treasures are preserved for future generations.