Museum Specialist - Collections Processing Lead

Smithsonian; Suitland (MD); On-site; USD 71,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

The Smithsonian Institution's National Air and Space Museum in Washington, DC seeks a Museum Specialist in the Collections Processing Unit to safeguard and document the Nation's aeronautical and space artifacts. The role covers handling, packing, storage, and inter-site transportation across NASM locations.

The position blends independent work with team leadership, and includes periodic exhibit installation support. Travel to NASM sites in Chantilly, VA and Suitland, MD is required.

Qualifications

• Experience handling artifacts, large, including packing, unpacking, and moving with proper environmental controls.
• Planning and executing artifact transportation locally and internationally, including customs and logistics.
• Experience using specialized handling equipment (crating systems, lifters, climate-controlled containers).

Responsibilities

• Support handling, packing, storage, shipping, maintenance, and preservation of artifacts.
• Lead a crew of museum technicians and specialists on projects.
• Provide technical leadership to ensure safe care and display of artifacts.
• Occasionally assist Exhibit Productions with exhibit case installations and maintenance.
• Coordinate with curatorial and other units to maintain accurate artifact records.

Skills

Artifact handling

Transportation planning

Handling equipment

Education

Master's degree or graduate degree in related field

Tools

Crating systems

Lifters

Climate-controlled containers

Job description

The Smithsonian Institution's National Air and Space Museum in Washington, DC seeks a Museum Specialist in the Collections Processing Unit to safeguard and document the Nation's aeronautical and space artifacts. The role covers handling, packing, storage, and inter-site transportation across NASM locations.

The position blends independent work with team leadership, and includes periodic exhibit installation support. Travel to NASM sites in Chantilly, VA and Suitland, MD is required.