Maintenance Mechanic: Build Your Career at the Smithsonian Institution
The Smithsonian Institution is not just a collection of museums; it is the world's premier research and education complex. To keep our 21 museums, 14 research centers, and the National Zoo running smoothly, we rely on a dedicated team of facilities professionals. We are currently looking for a skilled Maintenance Mechanic to join our team in Edgewater, Maryland. If you take pride in your craftsmanship and want to support an institution that inspires millions, this is the role for you.
Job Responsibilities
As a Maintenance Mechanic, your day-to-day will be varied and fast-paced. You will be a key contributor to the functional integrity of our facilities. Key duties include:
- Carpentry: Fabricating and repairing doors, windows, flooring, and structures.
- Painting: Performing interior and exterior painting, including scraping, sanding, and chemical stripping.
- Plumbing: Managing minor repairs and clearing drain clogs using professional augers.
- Electrical: Re-lamping fixtures, maintaining emergency lighting, and performing minor equipment repairs.
Comparison of Key Qualifications
| Skill Category | Requirement Level |
|---|---|
| Carpentry | Proficient |
| Painting | Proficient |
| Plumbing | Minor Repairs |
| Electrical | Basic Maintenance |
Requirements
This position requires a hands-on individual with physical stamina. You must be comfortable lifting 50 lbs, working in all weather conditions, and navigating ladders and stairs. A valid state or District of Columbia driver's license is mandatory. You must be prepared for a flexible schedule, including weekends and potential emergency call-outs.
Salary and Benefits
This position offers a competitive hourly rate between $34.71 and $40.55. Beyond the paycheck, the Smithsonian offers a robust federal benefits package, including:
- Comprehensive health and life insurance.
- Retirement savings plans.
- Generous leave accrual (vacation and sick).
- Professional stability in a federal environment.
Application Tips
To stand out, ensure your resume is concise (max 2 pages) and clearly outlines your specific experience in each of the four trade areas. Always attach your driver's license, as missing documentation is a common reason for disqualification.
Join us in our mission of "Inspiring Generations through Knowledge and Discovery." If you are a hardworking tradesperson looking to make an impact, apply for our Maintenance Mechanic position in Edgewater today.
Why This Maintenance Mechanic Job Matters
Join the team that preserves history! The Smithsonian Institution is seeking a skilled Maintenance Mechanic to help maintain the world's most prestigious collection of museums and research centers.
Maintenance Mechanic Job Overview
As a Maintenance Mechanic for the Smithsonian Institution in Edgewater, Maryland, you will play a critical role in the stewardship of our facilities. This is a full-time, permanent position focused on performing diverse maintenance, repair, and construction tasks that keep our historic buildings and infrastructure safe, operational, and welcoming to millions of visitors. You will work within a specialized team to handle everything from structural carpentry and interior painting to essential plumbing and electrical repairs, ensuring our environment remains a world-class destination for knowledge and discovery.
Requirements for Maintenance Mechanic
- Must possess a valid State or District of Columbia driver's license (must upload copy with application).
- Ability to perform moderately heavy physical labor, including lifting up to 50 lbs.
- Capability to work in various environmental conditions, including outdoor exposure to weather, dust, and insects.
- Must be able to climb ladders, stairs, and stand/walk for extended periods.
- Must be able to work weekends, holidays, and late shifts as required.
- Subject to emergency call-ins to ensure operational continuity.
- Pass a pre-employment background investigation.
- Registration with the Selective Service for males born after 12/31/59.
Preferred Qualifications for Maintenance Mechanic
- Proven experience in performing a full range of maintenance services including carpentry, painting, plumbing, and electrical work.
- Ability to interpret technical specifications, blueprints, and equipment manuals.
- Proficiency in using a variety of measuring instruments and maintenance tools.
- Demonstrated skill in professional-grade interior and exterior painting and surface preparation.
- Strong mechanical aptitude for minor electrical and plumbing repair operations.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive health and life insurance options.
- ✓Accident insurance coverage.
- ✓Competitive retirement program options.
- ✓Generous paid vacation and sick leave.
- ✓Federal holiday schedule.
- ✓Access to Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA).
- ✓Recruitment incentives available for qualified candidates (subject to eligibility).
💡 How to Apply Maintenance Mechanic Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Maintenance Mechanic Job
- Prepare a resume of no more than two pages detailing your experience in maintenance trades.
- Gather your valid driver's license and any required veteran documentation (e.g., DD214).
- Click the Apply Online button on the USAJobs portal.
- Upload your resume and all supporting documentation.
- Complete the online occupational questionnaire.
- Submit your application package before the closing date of November 4, 2026.
💡 General Tips
- Do not copy language verbatim from the job announcement into your resume; focus on describing your specific, actual work experience.
- Ensure your resume includes start and end dates (month/year) and hours worked per week for each job entry.
- Be sure to attach your driver's license to avoid disqualification.
- Review your responses to the assessment questions against your resume to ensure consistency.
- Use the USAJobs resume builder if you need assistance formatting your federal employment history.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is travel required for this position?
No, this position is based permanently in Edgewater, Maryland, and does not involve travel.
What is the work schedule?
This is a full-time, permanent role. You may be required to work weekends, holidays, and late shifts, and you must be available for emergency call-ins.
Can I submit a longer resume?
No, your resume must be no more than two pages in length to be considered.
Is relocation assistance offered?
While we do not pay for relocation, we may offer recruitment incentives depending on availability.
How long does the application process take?
After the closing date, the review process may take several weeks. You will receive email notifications as your status updates.
Job from Smithsonian Institution
The Office of Facilities Management (FM) is the backbone of the Smithsonian. We oversee the lifecycle stewardship of our historic buildings, grounds, and infrastructure. Our team is responsible for ensuring that every visitor experience is safe, healthy, and sustainable. When you work with FM, you are part of a diverse team of tradespeople dedicated to keeping priceless collections and public spaces in pristine condition.