Director, Office of Protection Services
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Position ID:
EX-26-03
City:
Washington, District of Columbia
Date Posted:
2026-04-01
Expiration Time:
2026-04-30
Job Type:
Job Category:
Security Administration
Salary:
151661 - 228000 PA
Job Summary
The Director, Office of Protection Services (OPS), is the principal advisor to the Smithsonian Secretary, Deputy Secretary, Under Secretaries and to the directors of Smithsonian museum, research and administrative entities, for security, protection and law enforcement matters affecting the Institution. The OPS Director is responsible for leading a 24-hour day security organization for facilities housing over 6,000 employees and attracting approximately 30 million visitors annually.
Job Description
BASIC QUALIFICATIONS A degree in Criminal Justice, Police Science, or a related field; or a combination of education and appropriate experience that provides knowledge comparable to that normally acquired through successful completion of a four-year course of study in an applicable subject matter field. SPECIALIZED EXPERIENCE In addition, applicants must have one year of specialized experience at or equivalent to the GS-15 level. Specialized experience is defined as the demonstrated knowledge and leadership skills as they relate to managing a comprehensive security and protection program for a complex, multi-facility organization. The applications that meet the basic qualifications will be evaluated further against the following criteria: 1. Demonstrated experience in providing executive leadership in the direction, planning, development and implementation of programs, policies, and priorities related to law enforcement/security and emergency management programs for a large, geographically dispersed organization. Experience should include programs such as basic law enforcement training, weapons training, physical security, and criminal investigation. 2. Advanced written and oral communication skills, as evidenced by being able to deal with diverse audiences in difficult circumstances such as testifying in court or being deposed. Ability to deliver a controversial message to an audience while maintaining composure under pressure. Ability to make clear presentations to the highest levels of institutional leadership as well as to entry level staff. 3. Demonstrated skill in building cooperative relationships between colleagues and organizations within your oversight, and with stakeholders inside and outside the Institution. This includes ability to develop, sustain and leverage relationships with key managers as well as build relationships with critical external partners (i.e., Law Enforcement agencies, National Park Service, etc.) and establish a presence in the professional community. 4. Demonstrated management experience and skill in the development and administration of budgets, creating strategic plans, goal setting, and implementation of results-based programs or performance measures that have increased productivity. 5. Demonstrated ability to lead and manage a high-performing, multi-disciplinary workforce, including building and sustaining a positive work environment, setting clear expectations, holding staff accountable, and attracting, developing, and motivating employees. Experience should include fostering teamwork, addressing performance or conduct issues, and reinforcing a culture of professionalism, integrity, and continuous improvement.