Organization: Smithsonian Institution – National Museum of American History
Location: Washington, DC (Onsite)
Position Type: Trust Fund – Indefinite Appointment
Schedule: Full Time
Application Deadline: February 21, 2026
Start Date: Flexible
Compensation: $169,279 – $197,200 per year
Reporting To: Associate Director, External Affairs

About the Smithsonian Institution

Founded in 1846, the Smithsonian Institution is the world’s largest museum and research complex. It encompasses 21 museums and galleries, the National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute, and 14 education and research facilities. With over 6,500 employees, including approximately 500 scientists, the Smithsonian safeguards more than 157 million objects, works of art, and specimens. The National Museum of American History (NMAH) aims to empower people to create a just and compassionate future by exploring, preserving, and sharing the complexity of the American past.

Position Overview

The Assistant Director for Integrated Communications will lead the development and execution of the museum-wide communication and marketing strategy. Positioned within the Office of External Affairs, this role ensures NMAH’s messaging, branding, and engagement strategies are aligned with the museum’s mission, vision, and strategic plan. The position directs internal and external communications, public relations, social media, marketing, editorial services, and the creation of innovative messaging frameworks.

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Duties & Responsibilities

1. Public and Media Relations

Plan, manage, and supervise all internal and external communication activities.
Ensure public information efforts align with the museum’s strategic goals.
Maintain strong relationships with media outlets to enhance NMAH’s visibility.

2. Brand Identity Management

Lead initiatives to establish and maintain a consistent, recognizable brand across all platforms.

3. Digital and Social Media Strategy

Oversee a multidisciplinary social media team to manage content for the museum’s online presence, including website, blog, Facebook, X, Pinterest, Instagram, LinkedIn, and Google+.
Develop innovative campaigns to increase audience engagement and awareness.

4. Leadership and Team Management

Direct, mentor, and motivate a diverse team of communications, marketing, design, and digital media professionals.
Implement both short- and long-term strategic planning for all communications functions.

Desired Candidate Profile

Education Requirements

Advanced degree in Communications, Marketing, Public Relations, American History, or related field preferred.

Experience and Qualifications

Minimum of one year of specialized experience equivalent to IS/GS-14 level. Specialized experience includes:
- Public information or public relations in a museum, large cultural institution, or similar organization.
- Leading and motivating teams across communications, marketing, design, and social media.
- Developing and implementing strategic communication plans.
Knowledge of American history and culture is highly desirable.
Exceptional written and oral communication skills, capable of conveying complex topics to diverse audiences.

Conditions of Employment

Must pass a pre-employment background check and subsequent investigation.
Complete a probationary period.
Maintain a bank account for direct deposit.
Eligible to work in the United States.

Application Process

Candidates should submit a detailed resume that includes paid and unpaid experience, start and end dates (month/year), and average hours worked per week. Once the announcement closes, resumes will be reviewed against qualification requirements, and qualified candidates will be referred to the hiring manager. Relocation expenses are not provided.

For Reasonable Accommodation Requests: NMAHApplications@si.edu

Apply Here: Smithsonian Careers Page

Apply

Why Join

This position offers the opportunity to influence the public narrative of American history at a nationally recognized museum. Candidates will lead a talented communications team, develop innovative public engagement strategies, and contribute to an institution committed to inclusivity, accessibility, and public knowledge.

Equal Opportunity Statement

The Smithsonian Institution provides equal employment opportunities to all qualified applicants. For details on the EEO program, visit https://www.si.edu/oeo.