Lead Iconic Landscapes: Supervisory Interdisciplinary Horticulturist at the Smithsonian
The Smithsonian Institution, the world's premier museum and research organization, is looking for a seasoned leader to oversee its horticulture and landscape operations. This is a unique opportunity to shape the aesthetic and functional environment of one of the nation's most treasured institutions. We are currently seeking a Supervisory Interdisciplinary Horticulturist/Landscape Architect to join the Facilities Management team.
Job Responsibilities
In this senior leadership capacity, your primary responsibilities will include:
- Strategic Leadership: Directing horticultural operations and establishing technical standards for all landscape management projects.
- Operational Oversight: Managing subordinate supervisors and staff to ensure institutional goals are met.
- Emergency Management: Developing and implementing procedures for emergency preparedness, recovery, and asset protection during site-wide incidents.
- Stakeholder Engagement: Coordinating with internal departments, professional organizations, and governmental partners to facilitate complex landscape improvement projects.
Requirements
To qualify for this GS-14 level position, candidates must meet specific criteria:
| Requirement | Description |
|---|---|
| Education | Degree in Horticulture or Landscape Architecture (or equivalent combination) |
| Experience | 1 year of specialized experience at the GS-13 level or equivalent |
| Documentation | Official or unofficial transcripts are required to verify education |
| Compliance | Must pass background checks and meet all federal hiring mandates |
Salary Overview
This position offers a competitive federal salary range of $143,913 to $187,093 per year, commensurate with qualifications and the specific scale of federal pay.
Benefits
Employees of the Smithsonian Institution enjoy a robust federal benefits package:
- Comprehensive health and life insurance.
- Generous retirement programs (FERS).
- Ample paid time off, including federal holidays, vacation, and sick leave.
- Opportunities for recruitment incentives for highly qualified candidates.
Application Tips
- Tailor Your Resume: Focus on quantifiable results and management experience rather than job descriptions.
- Mind the Limits: The two-page resume limit is a strict requirement; use clear, concise bullet points.
- Include Details: Always list the hours worked per week, as this is critical for HR to determine experience levels.
- Check Your Documents: Ensure all transcripts and veteran forms are uploaded correctly before the closing date.
This role offers an unparalleled chance to influence the landscape design of the Smithsonian. If you have the professional experience and vision to lead a world-class team of horticulturalists, apply today to secure your place in the future of the Smithsonian.
Why This Supervisory Interdisciplinary Horticulturist/Landscape Architect Job Matters
Lead the iconic landscapes of the world's largest museum and research complex. Your vision as a Supervisory Interdisciplinary Horticulturist/Landscape Architect will shape the living collections that millions of visitors admire at the Smithsonian Institution.
Supervisory Interdisciplinary Horticulturist/Landscape Architect Job Overview
The Smithsonian Institution is seeking a visionary leader to serve as a Supervisory Interdisciplinary Horticulturist/Landscape Architect. In this pivotal role, you will oversee the strategic direction and daily management of Smithsonian Gardens, ensuring the preservation, development, and aesthetic excellence of its world-class landscape assets. You will guide specialized teams, manage resource allocations, and spearhead emergency preparedness and recovery initiatives for these unique botanical environments.
Requirements for Supervisory Interdisciplinary Horticulturist/Landscape Architect
- U.S. Citizenship.
- Must meet the basic education requirement for Horticulture (0437) or Landscape Architecture (0807) series.
- One year of specialized experience at the GS-13 level or equivalent.
- Must pass a pre-employment background investigation.
- Male applicants born after 12/31/59 must register with the Selective Service.
- May be required to complete a 12-month supervisory probationary period.
- Must maintain a bank account for direct deposit.
Preferred Qualifications for Supervisory Interdisciplinary Horticulturist/Landscape Architect
- Demonstrated ability to lead large-scale, interdisciplinary horticulture or landscape programs.
- Experience managing complex operational, technical, and resource planning projects.
- Strong background in emergency preparedness, risk management, and facility recovery within a botanical or public garden setting.
- Excellent communication skills for representing the institution to external partners and stakeholders.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive health insurance options.
- ✓Generous vacation, sick leave, and federal holiday schedules.
- ✓Robust retirement program options.
- ✓Life and accident insurance coverage.
- ✓Access to flexible spending accounts.
- ✓Potential for recruitment incentives.
💡 How to Apply Supervisory Interdisciplinary Horticulturist/Landscape Architect Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Supervisory Interdisciplinary Horticulturist/Landscape Architect Job
- Review the full vacancy announcement on the official federal portal.
- Prepare a resume that is strictly two pages or less.
- Ensure your resume details specific accomplishments, series, grades, and hours worked per week.
- Submit your application online via the official Apply button.
- Upload all required documentation, including unofficial transcripts and veteran preference forms (if applicable).
- Monitor your email for status updates and confirmation of receipt.
💡 General Tips
- Your resume must clearly demonstrate your impact rather than just listing duties; avoid copying language from the vacancy announcement.
- Keep your resume concise; the two-page limit is strictly enforced.
- Always include the number of hours worked per week for each experience entry to ensure accurate credit.
- Preview the assessment questions early to understand the competencies the hiring team is prioritizing.
- Ensure your transcript is legible and clearly displays your name and institution.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I submit a resume longer than two pages?
No. The Smithsonian requires that your resume be no more than two pages in length to be considered for this position.
What is the salary range for this role?
The salary for this position ranges from $143,913 to $187,093 per year.
Is relocation assistance provided?
The Smithsonian does not pay relocation expenses, though recruitment incentives may be authorized for the right candidate.
How is my application evaluated?
Applicants are placed into 'Best,' 'Better,' or 'Good' categories based on their experience and competencies related to the major duties of the role.
What is the closing date for this vacancy?
The application window closes on November 30, 2026.
Is this a remote position?
No, this is an onsite position based in Washington, D.C.
Job from Smithsonian Institution
The Smithsonian Institution is more than just a series of museums; it is a global research complex comprising 21 museums, the National Zoo, and numerous research centers. Smithsonian Gardens is the heartbeat of this campus, responsible for the curation of living plant collections, greenhouse operations, and the long-term stewardship of the institution's landscape assets. By joining this team, you are helping to "Inspire Generations through Knowledge and Discovery."