Lead the Future: Associate Director for Planning and Project Management at the Smithsonian

The Smithsonian Institution, the world’s preeminent museum and research complex, is seeking a high-level expert to join the team as the Associate Director for Planning and Project Management. This critical leadership role sits at the intersection of cultural mission and large-scale infrastructure, focusing on the growth of the newly developing Smithsonian American Women's History Museum. If you possess the experience to turn architectural and curatorial visions into reality on the National Mall, this role offers an unparalleled platform to leave a permanent mark on American history.

Job Responsibilities

In this senior role, you will be responsible for the strategic planning of projects that define the museum experience. Your primary duties include:

Overseeing the lifecycle of capital projects, from initial concept to final facility implementation.
Directing the planning and implementation of permanent, temporary, and traveling exhibitions.
Collaborating with architects, engineers, and diverse contractors to ensure projects meet strict schedules and budgetary constraints.
Establishing organizational project management frameworks and performance metrics.
Supervising a multidisciplinary team and ensuring building operations and maintenance meet the highest standards of safety and efficiency.

Requirements

To be considered for this position, candidates must demonstrate:

One year of specialized experience at the GS-13 level.
Proven expertise in complex cultural or museum project management.
Proficiency in managing capital budgets and building infrastructures.
Strong leadership abilities in navigating technical issues and stakeholder priorities.

Candidate Comparison Table

Feature	Requirements	Preferred Qualification
Experience Level	GS-13 Equivalent	Senior Strategic Planning
Focus Area	Facilities & Project Ops	Cultural/Museum Context
Team Leadership	Multi-disciplinary oversight	Mentorship & Motivation
Technical Scope	Budget & Scope Management	Infrastructure Modernization

Salary Overview

The compensation for this position ranges from $143,913 to $187,093 annually. This range reflects the high degree of responsibility and the technical expertise required to manage the Smithsonian’s significant physical assets.

Benefits

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

Comprehensive health and life insurance.
Federal retirement system eligibility.
Generous leave accrual programs.
Access to flexible spending accounts.

Application Tips

Customize Your Resume: Avoid copy-pasting duties from the announcement. Use your resume to provide unique examples of your achievements.
Check Your SF-50: If you are a current or former federal employee, ensure your SF-50s provide clear proof of time-in-grade.
Follow Format: Keep your resume under two pages; longer resumes will not be reviewed.

This role is not just a job; it is an opportunity to help build a permanent home for the stories of American women. If you have the professional discipline to lead complex capital projects and the passion to serve the public, we encourage you to apply by the closing date of November 5, 2026.

Why This Associate Director For Planning And Project Management Job Matters

Shape the future of the Smithsonian American Women's History Museum by leading iconic capital and exhibition projects in the heart of Washington, D.C.

Associate Director For Planning And Project Management Job Overview

The Smithsonian Institution is seeking a visionary Associate Director for Planning and Project Management. This senior-level role is pivotal in establishing the Smithsonian American Women's History Museum on the National Mall. You will provide strategic leadership, managing complex facilities projects, exhibition installations, and capital development initiatives that honor the untold stories of women in American history. This is a unique opportunity to blend operational expertise with mission-driven cultural preservation.

Requirements for Associate Director For Planning And Project Management

One year of specialized experience at the GS-13 level or equivalent.
Proven experience leading complex capital, facilities, or exhibition projects in museums, cultural, or educational institutions.
Expertise in managing project scopes, budgets, schedules, and multidisciplinary contracts.
Ability to resolve complex technical issues and competing institutional priorities.
Must be a U.S. citizen or eligible for appointment.
Completion of a pre-employment background investigation.
Selective Service registration for males born after 12/31/59.

Preferred Qualifications for Associate Director For Planning And Project Management

Demonstrated skill in strategic planning and long-term capital project oversight.
Proven ability to manage multiple concurrent exhibition design and installation projects.
Experience with preventative maintenance, infrastructure modernization, and deferred maintenance reduction.
Strong leadership capability in managing and motivating diverse teams and contractors.
Extensive knowledge of public institution best practices.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Comprehensive federal health insurance programs.
✓Federal retirement pension plans and savings opportunities.
✓Generous paid annual and sick leave.
✓Life and long-term care insurance options.
✓Flexible spending account participation.
✓Opportunities for professional development.

💡 How to Apply Associate Director For Planning And Project Management Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Associate Director For Planning And Project Management Job

Log into your USAJobs account or create a new profile.
Prepare a resume no longer than two pages.
Gather supporting documents such as SF-50 forms, transcripts, or veteran proof.
Complete the online occupational questionnaire.
Submit your full application package via the 'Apply Online' button before the deadline.
Monitor your status via the Smithsonian application portal.

💡 General Tips

Do not copy language directly from the job announcement; use your own words to describe your accomplishments.
Ensure your resume includes start/end dates (month/year) and hours worked per week for every job listed.
If you are a current federal employee, ensure your SF-50 explicitly states your current grade and time-in-grade.
Focus your resume content on the specific qualifications and major duties listed in the announcement.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the page limit for the resume?

The resume must be no more than two pages long.

Can I apply if I don't have federal experience?

Yes, provided you have equivalent experience in a museum, cultural, or complex institutional environment that demonstrates the required project management capabilities.

Are relocation expenses covered?

No, the Smithsonian Institution does not pay for relocation expenses for this position.

Is relocation assistance provided?

*A: No, the Smithsonian does not pay for relocation.*

Is this position remote?

*A: This position is not listed as remote, though telework eligibility may be discussed.*

Job from Smithsonian Institution

Joining the Smithsonian means contributing to the "Inspiring Generations through Knowledge and Discovery" mission. Comprised of 21 museums, 14 research centers, and the National Zoo, the Smithsonian is a beacon for global research and public education. This position specifically supports the American Women's History Museum, an ambitious project dedicated to documenting the often-untold stories of women who shaped our nation.