Loading Dock Clerk

Overview

The National Geographic Society headquarters, based in Washington, D.C., is undergoing a significant renovation project on its campus (Base Camp), to be completed in 2026. Components include a pavilion entrance, auditorium, photo gallery, exhibition space, immersive walk-through attraction, retail, food and beverage, education center, archives, tours, new event space, and a nighttime courtyard experience.

The Loading Dock Clerk is responsible for completing shipments by processing requests, pulling materials, packing boxes when necessary, coordinating inbound/outbound deliveries, packing and loading product using a forklift, and organizing storage areas. This position is considered essential (24/7) and personnel may be required to come to or remain at work during emergency situations to ensure proper coverage.

We are seeking a team member who values interoperability and is ready to support colleagues across different projects. At the Museum of Exploration, we believe our greatest successes come from shared expertise and a willingness to step outside of a single role. This reflects National Geographic's culture of partnership.

• Coordinate deliveries for all departments. Complete deliveries by specified times. Ensure listed recipients sign for packages with their names attached. Secure undeliverable packages daily. Verify all packages entering the loading dock, and coordinate shipments going out to the appropriate parcel or company. (40%)
• Monitor loading dock area to ensure only authorized delivery vehicles access the loading dock and that no other traffic obstructs access. Secure restricted areas on the loading dock and only grant access to authorized personnel. (25%)
• Operate heavy machinery including forklift and pallet jack. (25%)
• Offload pallets and remove material from the loading dock. (10%)

High school diploma or equivalent preferred. Certified to operate heavy machinery including forklift and pallet jack. Must be commissioned as an Unarmed Special Police Officer by the District of Columbia within 3 months of hire.

At least 1 year of warehousing or material-handling experience with hand/power tools and hand truck.

• Must be a reliable worker with a good work ethic
• Must be able to multitask and have a professional "can do" attitude
• Must be self-motivated and able to work with minimal supervision
• Must be comfortable working with multiple personality types
• Ability to prioritize workload, multi-task, manage time efficiently, and meet deadlines

• Strong oral and written communication skills
• Motivated and dependable, able to work independently and as part of a team
• Proficient reading skills and ability to follow directions
• Excellent with numbers and time management skills
• Basic computer skills including Word, Excel, Outlook

• Move frequently, stand, walk, and sit as part of duties
• Use hands to touch, handle, and feel; reach with hands and arms
• Regularly lift and/or move up to 40 lbs/18 kg
• Work in non-climate controlled conditions

No direct report

The National Geographic Society offers a competitive total rewards package. The salary range accounts for a wide range of factors including organizational need, skill sets, experience, certifications, and more. The rate for this position is $20.65.

The organization offers a comprehensive benefits package including health, dental, and vision insurance; wellness program; 401(k) with matching contributions after 6 months; paid time off with up to 22 days of paid annual leave per year (15 days for new hires in their first year, prorated); 10 days of sick leave; 12 paid holidays; paid winter break; paid parental leave, adoption and surrogacy expense reimbursement, fertility benefits;

learning and development opportunities;
Lifestyle Spending Account; pet adoption assistance and insurance; pre-tax transportation benefits; employer-paid life insurance and disability benefit; and other discounts and perks.

On-Site - Staff spend 100% of work time on-site at Base Camp, supporting campus and museum operations. On-site shifts (seven days a week, 24 hours a day) are scheduled by supervisors and may be adjusted based on needs and work cycles.

Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the United States. This position is not eligible for visa sponsorship.

We encourage you to apply even if your experience is not a 100% match with the position. We are looking for relevant skills and experience, not a strict checklist. We want to help you grow, and in return, you help us grow into a stronger, more inclusive organization.