Exhibits Specialist (Mobile Equipment)

Position Overview

The Exhibits Specialist (Mobile Equipment) is an integral part of the Conservation, Research, and Curatorial Affairs Directorate within the National Air and Space Museum. This role focuses on collections stewardship, maintenance, and upkeep of exhibit displays and public spaces.

Primary Responsibilities

• Operate various powered machinery including electric, gasoline, propane, or diesel units such as one-man lifts (20-foot), JLG manlifts (40- and 80-foot), Up-pups, scissor lifts (27-, 40-, and 60-foot), aerial work platforms, and forklifts.
• Maintain the cleanliness of display artifacts and surrounding exhibit enclosures, including cases and exhibit areas throughout the National Museum of the Air and Space.
• Assist with removal, relocation, and installation of artifacts including large items such as aircraft, spacecraft, and rockets, and support gallery setups and breakdowns.

Qualifications

• Must have career/career-conditional status or eligibility.
• Males born after December 31, 1959, must register with Selective Service.
• Ability to lift and carry items weighing up to 50 pounds.
• Must be capable of extensive walking, standing, bending, and reaching.
• Education: Degree or training in illustrative design, commercial art, fine arts, industrial design, architecture, drafting, interior design, or related fields. Advanced training from vocational/technical/art institutes above high school level is also acceptable.
• Experience: Minimum one year of specialized experience at or equivalent to GS-05 Federal Service level involving lighting component adjustment, artifact handling and cleaning, exhibit maintenance, and operation of various lifts.
• Alternatively, one full year of graduate-level education or demonstration of Superior Academic Achievement may substitute for experience.
• Combination of education and experience may also fulfill requirements.

Additional Information

Applicants must submit a resume limited to two pages clearly describing relevant experience with a focus on actual duties performed. Volunteer and part-time experiences are considered. Time-in-Grade requirements apply for current or recent federal employees.

This position is part of a bargaining unit. Recruitment incentives may be authorized subject to availability and may require a service agreement.

Applications may be considered for similar roles within the Smithsonian Institution, with consent to share personal information accordingly.

The Smithsonian offers a benefit package including leave, health and life insurance, accident coverage, and retirement plans.