- What are trust jobs?
- Trust Fund positions are unique to the Smithsonian. They are paid from a variety of sources, including the Smithsonian endowment, revenue from our business activities, donations, and grants and contracts. Trust employees are not part of the civil service, nor does trust fund employment lead to Federal status. The salary ranges for trust positions are generally the same as for federal jobs and in many cases trust and federal employees work side by side. Trust employees have their own benefit program which is similar to the federal program. On job announcements, trust jobs are designated with the pay plans IS, HG, IL or AE. Federal jobs are designated with pay plans GS, WG or SL.
- Is the Smithsonian part of the government?
- The Smithsonian is a Trust Instrumentality of the United States. The Board of Regents is the governing body and consists of members of Congress and private citizens of the United States. The Smithsonian receives an annual Congressional appropriation that accounts for approximately 2/3 of our total budget.
- Are Smithsonian federal employees the same as employees at a regular federal agency?
- Generally, yes. Smithsonian federal employees are regular civil service employees. The Smithsonian does not have political appointees.
- How long will it take to fill the job?
- The target is 45 days after the closing date listed on the job announcement. The process may take more or less time depending on the number of applicants and the nature of the position.
- Do I have to be a US citizen to work at SI?
- You must be a US Citizen to hold a federal civil service job. Trust positions require that the applicant has the right to work in the United States as evidenced by the possession of a green card, work visa, student visa or other Employment Authorization Document (EAD) obtained from the United States Department of Citizenship and Immigration Services - www.uscis.gov
- Can I apply to multiple jobs?
- Yes, but you must submit a separate application package or complete an online application as requested in the position announcement.
- What is Smithsonian Enterprises (SE)?
- SE is a revenue generating division of the Smithsonian and manages the Smithsonian Magazine Group, Museum Stores, Licensing, IMAX Theaters, Smithsonian Mail Order Catalogue, Smithsonian Journeys, Smithsonianstores.com and Smithsonian Magazine.com. SE also manages the partnerships that produce Smithsonian Books and the Smithsonian Channel HDTV. Income generated by SE is managed by the Smithsonian Institution and used for Smithsonian programs and facilities.
