Join the National Gallery of Art: Become an Exhibitions Officer

The National Gallery of Art, one of the world's premier art institutions, is currently seeking a talented and experienced Museum Specialist (Art) to join its Department of Exhibitions. This is a unique opportunity to shape how the public engages with art, working behind the scenes to coordinate world-class displays that travel domestically and internationally.

Job Responsibilities

As an Exhibitions Officer, you will serve as a lead manager for high-profile art projects. Your daily responsibilities will include:

Project Leadership: Overseeing exhibitions from the conceptual phase through completion.
Financial Oversight: Developing and managing complex budgets for domestic and international exhibitions.
Contractual Management: Coordinating agreements, lender terms, insurance, and indemnity requirements.
Stakeholder Coordination: Managing correspondence with lenders and overseeing the work of guest curators and consultants.
Tour Logistics: Scheduling and coordinating participating venues for traveling exhibitions.

Requirements

To be considered for this position, applicants must meet specific federal qualification standards.

Category	Requirement
Citizenship	Must be a U.S. Citizen
Experience	At least one year of GS-11 equivalent experience
Background	Must pass suitability and background checks
Registration	Selective Service (if applicable)

Salary and Benefits

The salary range for this position is $102,415 to $133,142 per year, commensurate with experience and federal pay regulations. Employees enjoy a comprehensive federal benefits package, including:

Health and Wellness: Access to top-tier health insurance plans.
Retirement: Federal pension plans and Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) options.
Time Off: Robust annual and sick leave programs.
Security: Life insurance options and long-term federal employment stability.

Application Tips

Be Detailed: Ensure your resume clearly states the hours worked per week and precise employment dates (month and year) for every position listed.
Focus on Results: Highlight your experience with budgets, contracts, and exhibition logistics rather than just general duties.
Use the Right Documents: Ensure your SF-50 and other supporting documents are current and correctly labeled.
Monitor Your Status: Use your USAJOBS account to track your progress throughout the recruitment cycle.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Does this position offer remote work? A: The position is telework eligible, subject to agency policy.

Q: What is the security clearance level? A: The position is classified as moderate risk and requires a background investigation.

Q: Can I apply without federal experience? A: Yes, private sector experience in museums or similar cultural organizations is highly valued.

Working at the National Gallery of Art is more than a job; it is a commitment to preserving and sharing the history of human creativity. If you are a detail-oriented professional with a passion for museum administration, we encourage you to apply by the closing date.

Why This Museum Specialist (Art) Job Matters

Join the National Gallery of Art and shape the global experience of world-class exhibitions as an Exhibitions Officer.

Museum Specialist (Art) Job Overview

The National Gallery of Art is seeking a dynamic Museum Specialist (Art) to join the Department of Exhibitions. In this pivotal role, you will lead the logistical, financial, and contractual management of significant domestic and international art exhibitions. From conceptual planning to the successful archiving of tours, you will work at the heart of one of the world's most visited museums, ensuring that millions of visitors engage with high-caliber art collections.

Requirements for Museum Specialist (Art)

U.S. Citizenship is required.
Must be eligible for Federal employment and pass a background investigation.
Registration with the Selective Service for males born after December 31, 1959.
Minimum of one year of specialized experience at the GS-11 level or equivalent.
Must meet all qualification requirements by the closing date of the announcement.

Preferred Qualifications for Museum Specialist (Art)

Proven track record in coordinating and managing temporary special exhibitions.
Experience in budget development and consolidation for large-scale museum projects.
Strong background in drafting contracts for lenders, guest curators, and international venues.
Expertise in managing insurance, indemnity, and regulatory compliance for fine art loans.
Demonstrated ability to supervise staff and lead diverse teams of curators and consultants.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Comprehensive health insurance plans
✓Federal retirement programs
✓Life insurance coverage
✓Flexible spending accounts
✓Generous leave policies (annual and sick leave)

💡 How to Apply Museum Specialist (Art) Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Museum Specialist (Art) Job

Create or update your account on USAJOBS.
Prepare a resume (maximum of 2 pages) detailing relevant experience, pay plans, series, and grade levels.
Complete the online assessment questionnaire.
Upload required documents, including SF-50 (if applicable) and other supporting certifications.
Submit your full application package via the online portal by 11:59 PM ET on the closing date.

💡 General Tips

Your resume is the primary basis for qualification; ensure it includes dates (month/year) and hours worked per week for every job entry.
Avoid including sensitive personal data like SSN, photos, or religious affiliation in your resume.
Be specific regarding your experience with budget management and international exhibition logistics.
Check your application status frequently via your USAJOBS account dashboard.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a formal degree required for this position?

There is no specific education requirement for this position; however, applicants must demonstrate significant specialized experience in museum operations.

Can I apply if I don't have federal experience?

Yes, experience can be gained through private sector work, non-profit organizations, or volunteer service, provided it aligns with the responsibilities described in the announcement.

Will I be expected to supervise staff?

Yes, this role involves both direct and indirect supervision of staff, as well as the oversight of external guest curators and consultants.

Job from National Gallery Of Art

Located in the heart of Washington, D.C., the National Gallery of Art is a cornerstone of American culture. Dedicated to the exploration of art, creativity, and our shared humanity, the Gallery houses a massive collection of over 160,000 works. Every year, millions of visitors pass through its doors to enjoy free access to the West and East Buildings and the Sculpture Garden. The museum is supported by a diverse team of professionals, from conservators and educators to exhibition logistics experts.