Crafting the Visual Narrative: Exhibits Specialist (Graphics) at the Smithsonian

Have you ever stood in front of a museum display and marveled at how the graphics perfectly captured the gravity of history? At the National Museum of African American History and Culture (NMAAHC), those visuals are the result of precision, artistry, and technical skill. The Smithsonian Institution is currently looking for an Exhibits Specialist (Graphics) to join their team in Washington, D.C. This is an exciting opportunity for a creative professional who wants to merge design skills with museum-grade craftsmanship.

Job Responsibilities

As an Exhibits Specialist, you won't just be designing; you will be building. Your role is central to the visitor experience, ensuring that every panel, plaque, and wall display is executed to perfection. Key duties include:

Assisting designers with the selection of graphic media to protect artifacts and enhance aesthetics.
Producing graphic files using specialized software.
Operating industrial equipment, including flatbed printers, vinyl cutters, and laminators.
Mounting and installing high-quality photography and graphics within complex exhibition structures.
Managing small-scale procurement for production materials.

Requirements

To be eligible for this role, you must meet both basic educational standards and professional experience benchmarks. You should possess knowledge of:

Illustrative design, commercial art, or fine arts.
Graphic production techniques.
The use of power and hand tools for installation.

Physical Requirements

This is a hands-on position. You must be prepared to:

Lift up to 50 lbs.
Work in confined spaces and on ladders.
Utilize personal protective equipment (PPE) as required.

Salary Overview

Position Level	Salary Range
GS-09 (Current)	$70,623 - $91,815
Promotion Potential	GS-11

Benefits

Working for the Smithsonian means joining a federal system that values its employees. You will have access to a robust benefits package, including comprehensive health coverage, flexible spending accounts, and a secure retirement plan. You will also enjoy federal holidays and generous leave accrual.

Application Tips

Customize Your Resume: Ensure it is exactly two pages and clearly outlines your specialized experience.
Be Quantitative: Note how many hours you worked per week and the specific equipment you operated.
Act Quickly: This announcement may close early if 100 applications are received. Do not wait until the deadline.

This role is a perfect match for a detail-oriented creative with a passion for history and craftsmanship. If you are ready to make your mark on one of the most important museums in the world, submit your application to the Smithsonian today.

Why This Exhibits Specialist (Graphics) Job Matters

Bring history to life through art and design at the world-renowned National Museum of African American History and Culture.

Exhibits Specialist (Graphics) Job Overview

The Smithsonian Institution is seeking a creative and technically skilled Exhibits Specialist (Graphics) to join the team at the National Museum of African American History and Culture (NMAAHC) in Washington, D.C. This pivotal role involves planning and executing complex exhibition components, ensuring that museum graphics meet the highest standards of aesthetic quality and historical preservation.

Requirements for Exhibits Specialist (Graphics)

U.S. Citizenship.
Completion of one year of specialized experience at the GS-07 level or equivalent.
Ability to perform physically demanding tasks including lifting/carrying up to 50 lbs, bending, and climbing.
Experience working in confined spaces and around potential eye irritants or hazardous materials.
Compliance with respiratory and hearing monitoring programs.
Adherence to selective service registration for males born after 12/31/1959.
Successful completion of a background investigation.

Preferred Qualifications for Exhibits Specialist (Graphics)

Degree in illustrative design, fine arts, commercial art, or architecture.
Proficiency in industry-standard graphic design and production software.
Proven experience with flatbed and roll-to-roll printers, vinyl cutters, and laminators.
Skill in silk-screening, mounting graphics on varied substrates, and exhibit repair.
Demonstrated ability to translate verbal instructions or sketches into professional print-ready production files.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Comprehensive Federal Health Insurance
✓Generous Leave Accrual
✓Flexible Spending Accounts
✓Robust Retirement Programs
✓Life Insurance Coverage
✓Long Term Care Insurance options

💡 How to Apply Exhibits Specialist (Graphics) Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Exhibits Specialist (Graphics) Job

Prepare a detailed, two-page resume highlighting your specific expertise in graphic production.
Create or update your account on USAJobs.
Submit your application online, including all required documentation such as SF-50s and transcripts.
Complete the occupational questionnaire thoroughly to accurately reflect your skill levels.
Monitor your email for status updates and confirmation of receipt.

💡 General Tips

Do not copy language directly from the job announcement; describe your actual accomplishments.
Ensure your resume explicitly lists hours worked per week for each job entry.
Submit your application early, as the announcement may close early if 100 applications are received.
Provide clear, readable transcripts if you are using education to qualify.
Verify your SF-50 accurately reflects your time-in-grade.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the promotion potential for this position?

This position is currently at the GS-09 level but has potential for promotion up to the GS-11 level.

Can I submit a resume longer than two pages?

No, the announcement strictly requires a resume of no more than two (2) pages.

Does the Smithsonian provide relocation expenses?

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

What is the security clearance for this role?

*A: The position is categorized as Non-sensitive (NS)/Low Risk, though a standard pre-employment background check is required.*

Is telework available?

*A: This position is eligible for telework, depending on operational needs.*

Job from Smithsonian Institution

The Smithsonian Institution is the world's largest museum, education, and research complex. Comprising 21 museums and the National Zoo, it serves as a global leader in preserving cultural heritage. The NMAAHC is a cornerstone of this network, dedicated to the study, preservation, and exhibition of the African American experience.