Photographer (Museum Artifacts)

Summary

This role sits within the National Archives and Records Administration at the George W. Bush Presidential Library in Dallas, Texas. The photographer will produce high-resolution images of museum artifacts and support the full workflow around studio operations, equipment upkeep, object handling, and digitization.

What you will do

• Run the photography studio on a day-to-day basis and operate digital imaging tools while completing photography and other imaging assignments.
• Organize, store, and manage digital files correctly, and share observations or recommendations related to file handling.
• Create complete catalog entries for digitized objects in the collections management system (TMS), including related media and metadata.
• Train and support coworkers in artifact photography, image preparation, and metadata practices aligned with NARA standards and recognized industry methods.
• Take part in team meetings, contribute to shared decisions, and suggest ideas that improve how the unit works.

Requirements and conditions

Experience may come from public, private, or volunteer work. A year of experience means full-time work, while part-time service is counted proportionally. To receive full credit for prior work, the resume should list employment dates in month/day/year format and include hours worked per week.

• A probationary or trial period may be required, and continued employment depends on supervisory certification that retention will benefit the Federal Service, with that certification made at least 30 days before the period ends.
• Successful completion of a background investigation is required.
• You must complete a Declaration for Federal Employment when requested to establish suitability for federal service.
• Male applicants born after December 31, 1959 must show Selective Service registration or proof of exemption.
• A Personal Identity Verification process is required, using two forms of identification from the Form I-9; federal law requires identity and work authorization verification for all new hires in the U.S.
• The job involves mostly standing, with walking, reaching, bending, and lifting or carrying light to medium items weighing up to 30 lbs.

Eligibility

Applicants must be U.S. citizens or U.S. nationals. Candidates should also be committed to improving federal government efficiency, believe in the ideals of the American republic, and support the rule of law and the United States Constitution.

Qualifications

The target grade is GS-9. Qualified experience at the GS-7 level, or an equivalent level, is expected to cover work closely related to this role and demonstrate the knowledge and skills needed to perform it successfully.

• Operate standard and specialized camera equipment, including film processing tools.
• Use editing software to optimize digital images for identifying artifacts.
• Use digital cameras and/or scanners to produce clear, accurate images of artifacts and collection records in a professional museum, auction-house, or historically focused fieldwork setting.

Application materials

Applicants must upload at least two and no more than five photographs of artifacts or museum collections taken by them in a professional setting. Additional samples may be requested during the interview process.

Additional information

• This is a term appointment, which is a non-status appointment in the competitive service for a specific period of more than one year and not longer than four years.
• The agency may select candidates from this announcement or from another source to fill one or more openings.
• After selections are made, remaining qualified candidate lists may be shared with other offices, bureaus, or agencies hiring for similar roles. Opt-in sharing is available, but there is no guarantee of further consideration.
• This is a non-bargaining unit position.
• Telework may be available according to agency policy.
• Flexible work schedules may be available according to agency policy.

Reasonable accommodation

If a disability covered by the Rehabilitation Act or ADA could affect your ability to complete the USA Hire competency-based assessments, you may request a reasonable accommodation in the online application. Requests and supporting documentation must be submitted before beginning the assessments. Decisions are made case by case. If you meet the minimum qualifications, you will receive an email invitation after your request is reviewed. You must finish all assessments within 48 hours of receiving the assessment URL if the link arrives after the announcement closes. Refer to the accommodation procedures for online assessments for more details.

Benefits

Federal employees receive a benefits package, and eligibility depends on the appointment type and work schedule. Contact the hiring agency for details on the specific benefits available for this part-time position.