Advancement Associate/IS-1001-09

Application Deadline: 31 March 2026

Department: National Air and Space Museum

Employment Type: Full Time

Location: Washington, DC

Reporting To: Deputy Director & Assistant Director, Individual Giving

Compensation: $70,623 - $91,815 / year

Description

OPEN DATE: March 18, 2026                    
CLOSING DATE: March 31, 2026              
POSITION TYPE: Trust Fund
APPOINTMENT TYPE:  Permanent  
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. Trust employees have their own benefit program, which may include Health, Dental & Vision Insurance, Life Insurance, Transit/Commuter 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.  Proof of eligibility to work in U.S. is not required to apply.
• Applicants must meet all qualification and eligibility requirements within 30 days of the closing date of this announcement. 

OVERVIEW

Come join a team of dedicated staff at an exceptional time in the Smithsonian’s history as we prepare for the Smithsonian Campaign for Our Shared Future. This ambitious fundraising campaign’s public phase will run from 2024 to 2026, culminating with the nation’s 250th anniversary. It will expand the Smithsonian’s reach and impact, empowering the institution to find solutions to today’s most pressing challenges. The Smithsonian is also planning two exciting new museums. The National Museum of the American Latino and the Smithsonian American Women's History Museum share the experiences and perspectives of Latinos and women across history and deepen our shared understanding of what it means to be an American. The Smithsonian has built a model fundraising organization, driven by talented staff across our many museums, research centers and cultural centers. This position offers exciting opportunities for the successful candidate to make a significant impact on the future of the Smithsonian. There is no better time to join this amazing Institution.

The Smithsonian’s National Air and Space Museum is finishing a $285M campaign that is transforming the Museum on the National Mall and is expanding upon its model fundraising organization, one that will meet the growing needs of one of the world’s most visited museums.  This position offers exciting opportunities for the successful candidate to make a significant impact on the future of the National Air and Space Museum and the Smithsonian.  There is no better time to join this amazing Institution.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

The Advancement Associate supports essential fundraising, prospect research, operations, and donor stewardship activities for the NASM Advancement Team.  NASM will be hiring two Advancement Associates to support these efforts and help advance the team’s fundraising and engagement goals.

Gift Processing

• Review and process new gifts/membership, payments, and pledges recorded by the Office of Advancement. Identify discrepancies and coordinate corrective actions with the Gift Registrar, central office, Office of the Comptroller, and the Treasurer. Ensure transactions meet established requirements and deadlines.

Donor Relations 

• Collaborate with advancement staff to review layouts, copy, and content for invitations, solicitations, and donor/member communications. Edit and update correspondence, presentations, and brochures to ensure accuracy. Analyze donor/member giving patterns and assist with planning and logistics for special events and VIP guests.