Science Reference Librarian
Zimmerman Associates, Inc.
Beltsville, MD
Science Reference Librarian / Technical Information Specialist
Location: Greenbelt, Maryland (100% On-site)
Appointment: 1-Year
Salary: $62,000
ZAI is seeking two (2) Science Reference Librarians and/or Technical Information Specialists to provide services in the Customer Services Unit (CSU) of a major federal agency’s scientific research library.
Position Overview
The reference librarians will:
Provide daily coverage of the reference service desk and chat service
Monitor the online LibAnswers request queue
Respond to email and telephone reference requests
Conduct on-site researcher consultations as needed
Attend or provide training sessions
Update standard operating procedures (SOPs)
Assist with FOIA requests or bibliometric projects, as time allows
Key Responsibilities
Learn and search specialized print and online agricultural and food information resources to provide authoritative responses to customers
Become proficient with agency services, resources, databases, and platforms to ensure high-quality service
Support user experience for both physical and digital collections
Follow all SOPs related to CSU, reference, LibAnswers, and service desk operations
Contribute to LibAnswers FAQs and recommend workflow improvements as needed
Assist CSU librarians with projects
Fulfill FOIA requests as assigned
Support bibliometric data calls or projects
Qualifications
Master’s degree in Library Science or Library and Information Science (MLS or MLIS) OR 5+ years of experience in a specialized, technical, or science library with demonstrated knowledge of agriculture or related disciplines
1–5 years of experience in a scientific library performing reference and research work
Strong background in agriculture, food, environmental science, or related disciplines
Deep understanding of literature searching and search string construction
Experience searching scientific databases to provide comprehensive reference and research responses
Knowledge of library bibliographic records, MARC records, and metadata
Equal Opportunity Employer
ZAI is an equal opportunity employer. In compliance with Federal and State Equal Opportunity Laws, qualified applicants are considered for all positions without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy and gender identity), national origin, political affiliation, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, genetic information, age, veteran status, or any other legally protected status.