Launch Your Career at the Smithsonian: National Programs Assistant
Are you looking to merge your passion for history and culture with a rewarding federal career? The Smithsonian Institution is seeking a dedicated National Programs Assistant to join the team at the National Museum of the American Latino (NMAL) in Washington, D.C. This role offers a unique opportunity to contribute to one of the most prestigious cultural organizations in the world.
About the Smithsonian Institution
The Smithsonian is more than just a collection of museums; it is the world’s largest museum, education, and research complex. With 21 museums, the National Zoo, and numerous research centers, the Smithsonian is dedicated to the increase and diffusion of knowledge. As part of the Under Secretary for Museums and Culture, the National Museum of the American Latino plays a critical role in illuminating the richness of the Latino experience in the United States.
Job Responsibilities
As a National Programs Assistant, your daily work will directly impact how the public interacts with history. Your primary responsibilities include:
- Program Development: Assisting in the creation and implementation of bilingual educational materials.
- Logistics & Coordination: Providing critical administrative support for events, travel, and public programming.
- Stakeholder Engagement: Acting as a bridge between the museum, community partners, and the public.
- Data Analysis: Gathering and interpreting attendance data to ensure programs effectively reach their intended audiences.
Requirements
To be considered for this position, candidates must meet specific criteria:
- Experience: One year of specialized experience at the GS-05 level or equivalent.
- Language Skills: Full professional fluency in English and Spanish is required.
- Flexibility: Must be willing to work some weekends, evenings, and holidays.
- Documentation: Ability to provide official transcripts and appropriate SF-50 forms if applicable.
Salary Overview
The salary for this position is competitive and commensurate with federal pay scales.
| Position Level | Annual Salary Range |
|---|---|
| GS-07 | $57,736 - $75,059 |
Benefits of Working at the Smithsonian
Working for the federal government comes with an extensive benefits package designed to support your long-term success and well-being. This includes:
- Comprehensive health, life, and long-term care insurance.
- Participation in the federal retirement program.
- Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA).
- Generous annual and sick leave accrual.
Application Tips for Success
Applying for a federal job requires precision. Here are our top tips:
- Tailor Your Resume: Ensure every bullet point on your resume speaks to the 'Specialized Experience' mentioned in the job description.
- Respect the Limit: A two-page limit on your resume is strict—don't exceed it.
- Use the USAJOBS Builder: Using their tools helps ensure you include all required federal data points.
- Be Honest in Assessment: Your numeric rating is based on your questionnaire; ensure your resume supports every claim you make.
This position is an incredible entry point into federal service at a world-renowned institution. If you have the drive, the bilingual skills, and the passion for public engagement, we encourage you to apply. The work you do today will help shape the cultural narratives of tomorrow.
Why This National Programs Assistant Job Matters
Shape the future of public engagement at the Smithsonian’s National Museum of the American Latino—join our team as a National Programs Assistant.
National Programs Assistant Job Overview
The Smithsonian Institution invites passionate individuals to join the National Museum of the American Latino (NMAL) as a National Programs Assistant. In this role, you will be at the heart of our audience engagement strategy, helping to develop and implement bilingual educational programs that celebrate and explore the American Latino experience. This is an exciting opportunity for a collaborative professional to provide logistical support, coordinate community outreach, and assist in managing the vital research and learning initiatives that define the world's largest museum complex.
Requirements for National Programs Assistant
- One year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-05 level in Federal service.
- Fluency in both written and spoken English and Spanish.
- Ability to work occasional evenings, weekends, and holidays as needed.
- Must pass a pre-employment background investigation.
- Selective Service registration for males born after December 31, 1959.
- Ability to maintain a bank account for direct deposit.
Preferred Qualifications for National Programs Assistant
- Demonstrated experience in coordinating programmatic or administrative operations.
- Strong record-keeping and documentation management skills.
- Proven history of providing excellent customer service to diverse stakeholders.
- Experience in data collection and evaluation for public programs.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- âś“Comprehensive federal health insurance programs
- âś“Participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System
- âś“Life insurance options
- âś“Flexible spending accounts for healthcare and dependent care
- âś“Paid leave programs including annual and sick leave
- âś“Long-term care insurance eligibility
đź’ˇ How to Apply National Programs Assistant Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for National Programs Assistant Job
- Prepare a resume no longer than two pages.
- Gather relevant SF-50 documentation if you are a current or former federal employee.
- Complete the online application via the Smithsonian’s portal by the closing date.
- Answer the assessment questions carefully as they directly influence your rating.
- Monitor your email for status updates and requests for further information.
đź’ˇ General Tips
- Keep your resume strictly to the two-page limit to ensure it is reviewed.
- Do not copy language directly from the job announcement; describe your actual accomplishments in your own words.
- Clearly state your weekly hours and the duration of your past experiences.
- If using education to qualify, ensure you have unofficial transcripts ready to upload.
- Review your responses to the assessment questionnaire to ensure they align perfectly with your resume narrative.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this position bilingual?
Yes, fluency in both written and spoken English and Spanish is required for this role.
What is the salary range for this position?
The salary for this position ranges from $57,736 to $75,059 per year depending on experience and qualifications.
Can I submit a resume longer than two pages?
No, per the application instructions, your resume must be no more than two pages long.
Does the Smithsonian pay for relocation?
No, the Smithsonian Institution does not provide relocation expenses for this position.