Executive Leadership in Federal Facilities: Assistant Director of Labor and Custodial Services

Are you a seasoned operations professional with a proven track record of managing large-scale facilities, complex labor forces, and multi-million-dollar operational budgets? The Architect of the Capitol (AOC) is actively recruiting for the high-impact role of Assistant Director of Labor and Custodial Services. Located in the heart of Washington, D.C., this executive position within the Office of the Chief of Operations offers a unique opportunity to preserve, protect, and maintain some of the most iconic infrastructure in American history.

Operating within the Senate Office Buildings jurisdiction, the Assistant Director serves as the primary Facilities Manager leading labor and custodial branch operations. Earning between $121,785 and $187,093 per year across the GS-13 and GS-14 grade levels, the selected leader will drive workflow efficiency, execute strategic planning, maintain labor union partnerships, and foster high operational standards.

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About the Agency: Architect of the Capitol (AOC)

The Architect of the Capitol is the historical caretaker of the United States Legislative Branch. Responsible for over 18.4 million square feet of space and 570 acres of grounds throughout Capitol Hill, the AOC operates to serve Congress and the U.S. Supreme Court, preserve national landmarks, and provide memorable experiences for millions of national and international visitors each year.

The agency's corporate culture is driven by its core RISE values:

• Respect: Treating all team members, congressional stakeholders, and visitors with dignity.
• Integrity: Upholding the highest ethical and professional standards in stewardships.
• Safety: Ensuring a secure and hazard-free environment across all operational spaces.
• Empower: Encouraging innovation, professional development, and employee growth.

Joining the AOC means becoming part of an extraordinary legacy dedicated to public service, historical preservation, and functional excellence.

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Key Duties and Operational Responsibilities

The Assistant Director of Labor and Custodial Services holds comprehensive operational and administrative authority over the daily activities of the Senate Office Buildings' custodial and labor divisions. The position follows an early morning shift (Monday – Friday, 4:00 AM – 12:30 PM), ensuring facilities are prepared prior to the start of congressional business.

Primary responsibilities encompass:

1. Operations & Facilities Oversight

• Directing day-to-day operations across specialized labor and custodial shops to guarantee top-tier service delivery.
• Evaluating facility management workflows and modifying standard operating procedures for maximum efficiency.
• Conducting routine inspections across facility assets, plans, equipment, and grounds to ensure full regulatory compliance.
• Deploying state-of-the-art facility management and inspection software systems.

2. Supervisory & Strategic Resource Management

• Performing administrative and technical supervisory functions for subordinate supervisors and operational staff.
• Establishing clear performance standards, conducting performance appraisals, and driving career development through targeted mentoring.
• Developing long-term lifecycle management plans for heavy equipment and physical resources to emphasize sustainability.
• Formulating data-driven staffing models, forecasting future personnel demands, and coordinating recruitment or promotion actions.

3. Labor Relations & Workplace Safety

• Maintaining active leadership in Labor Management Relations Committee meetings and supporting collective bargaining processes.
• Ensuring complete alignment with labor union agreements and institutional policies.
• Enforcing strict workplace safety measures, conducting environmental safety audits, and ensuring proper Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) utilization.
• Taking immediate, decisive action to mitigate hazards and implement corrective safety plans.

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Qualification Requirements & Specialized Experience

To qualify for this position, applicants must meet specific federal qualification criteria at either the GS-13 or GS-14 level. Specialized experience must be clearly evidenced in your submitted resume.

General Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must satisfy at least one of the following requirements:

1. A citizen of the United States.
2. A lawful permanent resident actively pursuing citizenship as defined in 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3)(B).
3. An admitted refugee or granted asylee with a valid declaration of intention to become a permanent resident and citizen.
4. A U.S. national owing permanent allegiance to the United States (e.g., American Samoa, Swains Island).

Grade-Specific Specialized Experience

Feature	GS-13 Grade Level	GS-14 Grade Level
Minimum Experience	52 weeks equivalent to GS-12	52 weeks equivalent to GS-13
Facilities Management	Evaluated, adapted, and modified property, equipment, and facility management practices.	Planned, forecasted, and determined equipment requirements to boost agency effectiveness.
Operational Administration	Directed daily operations of labor and custodial units.	Managed comprehensive budgetary resources, manpower planning, and operational costs.
Supervisory Oversight	Coordinated cross-organizational maintenance changes to mitigate operational disruptions.	Executed full administrative/technical supervisory oversight and created supervisor performance metrics.
Workforce Development	Maintained maintenance standards and coordinated inter-agency methods.	Provided structured employee enrichment, executive coaching, and workforce mentorship.

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Salary Overview and Compensation Structure

The Assistant Director role is classified under the General Schedule (GS) pay scale, with target grade potential up to GS-14.

• GS-13 Base Salary Range: $121,785 – $158,322 (approximate annual step range)
• GS-14 Base Salary Range: $143,916 – $187,093 (approximate annual step range)

Salary placement within the $121,785 to $187,093 range is determined by the candidate's prior federal grade level, specialized work experience, and verified salary history. Annual step increases and cost-of-living adjustments (COLA) apply in accordance with federal pay regulations.

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Comprehensive Federal Benefits

As an employee of the Legislative Branch through the Architect of the Capitol, you will receive a comprehensive benefits package designed to support long-term well-being and financial security:

• Health & Wellness: Access to multiple high-quality Federal Employees Health Benefits (FEHB) plans, dental, and vision coverage.
• Retirement Planning: Coverage under the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS), which includes a defined benefit pension and the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) with agency matching contributions up to 5%.
• Paid Time Off: 11 federal paid holidays per year, alongside generous annual (vacation) leave and sick leave accrual.
• Student Loan Repayment: Participation eligibility for the AOC Student Loan Repayment Program to help pay down qualifying student debt.
• Commuter Assistance: Subsidized transit programs covering mass transit and vanpool expenses.
• Insurance: Access to Federal Employees' Group Life Insurance (FEGLI) and Long-Term Care Insurance.

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Proven Application Tips for AOC Vacancies

To ensure your application successfully passes initial HR screeners and subject matter experts, keep the following strategies in mind:

1. Tailor Your Resume Detail: Avoid vague task descriptions. Instead of writing "Managed custodial staff," write "Supervised a team of 30+ custodial personnel, established weekly maintenance schedules, and evaluated performance standards across 500,000 sq. ft. of facility space."
2. Highlight KSA Competencies: Your resume must directly reflect core competencies assessed in the application: Supervisory Skills, Administrative Management, Written/Oral Communication, and Strategic Planning.
3. Accurate Employment Dates: State the exact start and end dates (Month/Year) along with average hours worked per week for every position listed. Omission of hours can lead to disqualification.
4. Complete Questionnaire Thoroughly: Answer all self-assessment questions accurately. Ensure every answer rating is fully supported by concrete experience listed in your resume text.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What security screenings are required prior to appointment?

Candidates tentative selected for employment must pass a drug screening for illegal substance use and undergo a comprehensive criminal history check conducted by the U.S. Capitol Police.

Q: Is this position covered by a probation period?

Yes. Newly appointed candidates must complete a mandatory one-year trial or probationary period, regardless of prior federal service.

Q: Are relocation funds provided?

No. Relocation or moving expenses are not authorized for this vacancy.

Q: Does this position require civil service competitive status?

No. Positions within the Architect of the Capitol are in the Excepted Service and do not require or confer competitive civil service status.

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The Assistant Director of Labor and Custodial Services position at the Architect of the Capitol represents an extraordinary leadership opportunity for an ambitious facilities executive. By overseeing operations across the historic Senate Office Buildings, you will make a direct impact on national heritage preservation while earning a competitive salary and robust federal benefits.

Don't miss your opportunity to lead within one of the nation's premier institutions. Prepare your tailored resume and submit your application today!