Advancement Specialist IS 1001-11

OPEN DATE: May 27, 2026 CLOSING DATE: June 10, 2026 (This job will close when the first 150 applications are received which may be sooner than the closing date). POSITION TYPE: Trust Fund APPOINTMENT TYPE: Indefinite SCHEDULE: Full Time DUTY LOCATION: Washington, DC Position sensitivity and risk: Non-sensitive / Low risk Open to all qualified applicants What are Trust Fund Positions? Trust Fund positions are unique to the Smithsonian.

They are paid for from a variety of sources, including the Smithsonian endowment, revenue from our business activities, donations, 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 positions and in many cases trust and federal employees work side by side.

Benefits

, Accidental Death and Dismemberment Insurance, Annual and Sick Leave, Family Friendly Leave, 403b Retirement Plan, Discounts for Smithsonian Memberships, Museum Stores and Restaurants, Credit Union, Smithsonian Early Enrichment Center (Child Care), Flexible Spending Account (Health & Dependent Care). Conditions of Employment Pass Pre-employment Background Check and Subsequent Background Investigation for position designated. Complete a Probationary Period.

Maintain a Bank Account for Direct Deposit/Electronic Transfer. The position is open to all candidates eligible to work in the United States. S.

is not required to apply.

Requirements

within 30 days of the closing date of this announcement. The Smithsonian Institution’s National Postal Museum (NPM) brings the story of communication and the postal system to life across 23,000 square feet of dynamic exhibition space, complemented by a research library, Postal Store and Philatelic Center, and museum shop. Home to nearly 6 million objects—ranging from miniature stamps to full-scale vehicles—the museum offers a fascinating look at how mail has connected people and shaped the world.

Welcoming more than 400,000 visitors each year, NPM is the Smithsonian’s most-visited museum off the National Mall. Through innovative exhibitions, cutting-edge research, and engaging educational and public programs, the museum transforms the history of mail and philately into an accessible, relevant, and inspiring experience for diverse audiences. This position sits within the Advancement Department and reports directly to the Director of Advancement.

The department is a driving force behind NPM’s success, building meaningful relationships with donors and external partners to expand the museum’s impact. It also cultivates and stewards relationships with the Museum Advisory Council and the Council of Philatelists, whose leadership and advocacy are critical to the museum’s continued growth and impact. Assists with the stewardship of donors in maintaining continuous engagement, helps plan and execute the annual appeal, and acknowledges gifts from donors.

Helps steward the Councils, including planning meetings and maintaining communications. Prepares reports and materials needed for donor engagement, solicitation, and stewardship in consultation with the supervisor to determine the best possible approach. Plans, manages, and executes special events, including the gala, and/or educational programs for donors such as symposia, tours, receptions, and other cultivation events.

Assists front-line staff with managing their portfolios, pipeline reviews, and prospect strategy sessions. Identifies and engages constituents with both larger gift potential and an interest in the Smithsonian. Maintains, enters, and ensures that information in the advancement database is verified and updated regularly.