Become a Facilities Services Leader at the Smithsonian Institution
Are you looking to take your facilities management career to an iconic level? The Smithsonian Institution—the world’s largest museum, education, and research complex—is currently accepting applications for a Facilities Services Leader. This position is perfect for a hands-on leader who takes pride in maintaining historical infrastructure and ensuring that public spaces are safe, clean, and welcoming for millions of guests.
Job Responsibilities
As a Facilities Services Leader, your role is dynamic and essential. You will:
- Supervise a team of building and facility service workers.
- Oversee daily cleaning and maintenance tasks.
- Monitor work in progress to ensure compliance with quality and safety standards.
- Provide feedback for employee performance appraisals.
- Report structural defects such as leaks, cracks, or mechanical issues to upper management.
Comparison: Standard vs. Leadership Facilities Roles
| Feature | Facilities Services Worker | Facilities Services Leader |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Focus | Task Completion | Team Coordination |
| Supervision | Reports to Leader | Reports to Supervisor |
| Responsibility | Cleaning/Maintenance | Quality Check & Training |
Requirements
To be considered, candidates must demonstrate the ability to lead a team effectively. You must be physically capable of performing moderately heavy tasks, including lifting objects up to 50 pounds, climbing ladders, and working outdoors in various climate conditions. All candidates must pass a background investigation.
Salary and Benefits
This position offers a competitive hourly wage ranging from $24.45 to $28.49 per hour. Beyond the base pay, employees enjoy a comprehensive federal benefits package, including:
- Health and Life Insurance
- Retirement Programs
- Paid Leave (Annual and Sick)
- Flexible Spending Accounts
Application Tips
- Watch the Length: Keep your resume under two pages.
- Be Specific: Describe your actual duties in your own words.
- SF-50 Accuracy: If you are a federal employee, include your SF-50 with clear time-in-grade data.
Joining the Smithsonian is more than just a job; it is a chance to preserve history. Apply by the October 30, 2026 deadline to secure your place in this world-renowned organization.
Why This Facilities Services Leader Job Matters
Lead the team that keeps history alive and functioning. Join the Smithsonian Institution as a Facilities Services Leader and ensure our world-class museums and research centers operate at their best.
Facilities Services Leader Job Overview
The Smithsonian Institution is seeking a dedicated Facilities Services Leader to join the Office of Facilities Management (FM). This role is vital for maintaining the historic and modern structures that house the world’s most precious collections. You will supervise a team responsible for grounds maintenance, cleanliness, and infrastructure support, ensuring a safe and pristine environment for millions of visitors annually.
Requirements for Facilities Services Leader
- Ability to lead and mentor building service workers.
- Physical capability to lift and carry objects up to 50 lbs.
- Willingness to work outdoors in various weather conditions, including exposure to dust, pollen, and insects.
- Ability to climb ladders and stairs and remain on your feet for extended periods.
- Successful completion of a pre-employment background investigation.
- Compliance with Selective Service registration requirements for males born after 12/31/59.
- Valid state driver's license for operation of motor vehicles.
Preferred Qualifications for Facilities Services Leader
- Strong technical knowledge of facility maintenance practices.
- Proven track record of safety compliance and operational excellence.
- Experience in coordinating facility repairs and reporting maintenance defects.
- Ability to interpret complex work instructions and procedural specifications.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive health insurance plans
- ✓Federal retirement programs
- ✓Life insurance coverage
- ✓Long-term care insurance options
- ✓Flexible spending accounts
- ✓Generous annual and sick leave accrual
💡 How to Apply Facilities Services Leader Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Facilities Services Leader Job
- Review the full vacancy announcement on the USAJobs portal.
- Prepare a resume that is strictly no more than two pages long.
- Ensure your resume explicitly details your experience, including hours worked per week and specific dates.
- Submit your application online via the official link before the deadline.
- Include all required supporting documents, such as SF-50s or DD214 forms if applicable.
- Monitor your email for status updates from the Smithsonian Office of Human Resources.
💡 General Tips
- Do not copy job description language verbatim; use your own words to describe your accomplishments.
- Focus on highlighting your leadership experience during the assessment questionnaire.
- Verify your SF-50 clearly states your time-in-grade to ensure eligibility.
- Submit your application well in advance of the deadline to avoid technical issues.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I submit a resume longer than two pages?
No. The Smithsonian strictly requires a resume of no more than two pages for this position.
Are relocation expenses covered?
The Smithsonian does not provide relocation expenses, though recruitment incentives may be authorized at the agency's discretion.
Job from Smithsonian Institution
The Smithsonian Institution is a national treasure. Comprising 21 museums, 14 education and research centers, and the National Zoo, the Smithsonian is dedicated to "Inspiring Generations through Knowledge and Discovery." The Office of Facilities Management (FM) serves as the backbone of these operations, maintaining over 180 acres of outdoor gardens and countless buildings that require expert care and lifecycle stewardship.