Become a Maintenance Mechanic for the Smithsonian Institution
Are you looking to turn your trade skills into a meaningful career? The Smithsonian Institution, the world’s largest museum, education, and research complex, is currently hiring a Maintenance Mechanic. This is a unique opportunity to work behind the scenes, ensuring that historic buildings and world-class exhibits remain in pristine condition for millions of visitors.
Job Responsibilities
As a Maintenance Mechanic, your day-to-day will be varied and hands-on. You will provide essential maintenance and repair services, including:
- Carpentry: Building and repairing doors, stairways, partitions, and flooring.
- Painting: Maintaining interior and exterior surfaces, including surface preparation like sanding and stripping.
- Plumbing: Clearing clogged drains and performing minor fixture repairs.
- Electrical: Re-lamping light fixtures, maintaining exit signs, and performing minor repairs on equipment like space heaters or vacuums.
Requirements
Success in this role requires a blend of technical expertise and physical stamina. You must meet the following criteria:
- Physical Capability: Ability to lift up to 50 lbs and climb ladders/stairs.
- Licensure: A valid driver’s license is mandatory.
- Flexibility: Availability for emergency call-ins, nights, and weekends.
- Background: Ability to pass a federal background investigation.
Skills Comparison Table
| Skill Category | Key Responsibility |
|---|---|
| Carpentry | Structural fabrication and repair |
| Plumbing | Drain maintenance and fixture repair |
| Electrical | Basic repair and lighting maintenance |
| Painting | Surface preparation and protective finishes |
Salary and Benefits
The position offers a competitive federal salary ranging from $34.71 to $40.55 per hour. Beyond the hourly pay, the Smithsonian provides a robust benefits package that includes health insurance, retirement options, generous leave, and life insurance.
How to Apply
To be considered, you must apply through the USAJobs portal. Ensure your resume is concise (max 2 pages) and explicitly highlights how your previous trade experience qualifies you for this role. Remember to attach your driver's license and any necessary veteran documentation.
This role is ideal for dedicated tradespeople who want to apply their skills in an environment that truly matters. If you are ready to help the Smithsonian inspire generations through knowledge and discovery, apply today.
Why This Maintenance Mechanic Job Matters
Join the team that preserves history! The Smithsonian Institution is seeking a skilled Maintenance Mechanic to help keep our world-class museums and research facilities running smoothly in Washington, D.C. and Suitland, MD.
Maintenance Mechanic Job Overview
As a Maintenance Mechanic with the Smithsonian Institution, you will serve as a vital member of the Office of Facilities Management. You will perform essential trade services—including carpentry, painting, electrical repair, and plumbing—across our iconic historic buildings and research sites. This role is perfect for a versatile professional who enjoys hands-on work and takes pride in maintaining environments that host millions of visitors each year.
Requirements for Maintenance Mechanic
- Must possess a valid State or District of Columbia driver's license (must upload a copy with the application).
- Must be able to perform moderately heavy physical labor, including lifting objects up to 50 lbs.
- Must be comfortable working in various conditions, including outdoors, exposed to dust, pollen, and varying weather.
- Must be able to work flexible shifts, including weekends, holidays, and emergency call-ins.
- Must pass a pre-employment background investigation.
- Must be registered with the Selective Service if born after 12/31/1959.
- Must maintain a bank account for direct deposit.
Preferred Qualifications for Maintenance Mechanic
- Demonstrated ability to perform maintenance and repair services independently with minimal supervision.
- Proficiency in blueprint reading and interpreting technical specifications.
- Experience in the safe use and maintenance of a wide range of power and hand tools.
- Strong foundational knowledge in multiple trades: carpentry, painting, plumbing, and electrical.
- Ability to effectively use precision measuring instruments.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive health and life insurance options
- ✓Accident insurance coverage
- ✓Generous vacation and sick leave policies
- ✓Paid federal holidays
- ✓Competitive federal retirement program options
- ✓Access to Flexible Spending Accounts
💡 How to Apply Maintenance Mechanic Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Maintenance Mechanic Job
- Review the job announcement and ensure your resume is no more than two pages.
- Click the 'Apply Online' button on the USAJobs portal.
- Upload your resume, valid driver's license, and any required veteran preference documents.
- Complete the online occupational questionnaire.
- Submit your final application package by 11:59 PM ET on the closing date.
💡 General Tips
- Do not copy language directly from the job description; use your own words to describe your experience.
- Be specific about your accomplishments and quantify your experience whenever possible.
- Ensure your resume includes dates (month/year) and hours worked per week for each position.
- Double-check that your driver's license is attached; missing documents may lead to disqualification.
- Check your application status regularly via your USAJobs dashboard.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the work schedule for this position?
This is a full-time, permanent position. You may be required to work late shifts, weekends, and holidays, and you must be available for emergency call-ins.
Are there opportunities for relocation assistance?
The Smithsonian does not pay relocation expenses, though recruitment incentives may be authorized at the discretion of the agency.
Where are the work locations?
Selections will be made for facilities in both Washington, D.C. and Suitland, Maryland.
Job from Smithsonian Institution
The Smithsonian Institution is more than just museums. It includes 21 museums, 14 research centers, and the National Zoo. The Office of Facilities Management (FM) is the backbone of these operations, responsible for the lifecycle stewardship of buildings, grounds, and infrastructure. By working with FM, you contribute to a safe and sustainable environment that supports global research and cultural preservation.