Collections Assistant Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

This temporary, 1-year position works with a team of staff in the Collection Management unit to implement a project to transfer Libraries collections to its new Collections Facility and other campus libraries locations. 

This position is based onsite at Wilson Library and will work in other campus locations frequently. 

Work schedule is Monday Friday from 8:00am to 5:00pm.

Responsibilities 

Implement projects to move the Libraries physical collections.  (45%) 

• Oversee and assist in the pulling and physical processing of materials using lists; this includes processing items using the Libraries management system, as well as packing and shipping trucks.
• Proactively manage changes in project plans and timelines, identify potential problem areas and devise contingency plans.
• Troubleshoot problems to resolution.
  • Identify and resolve issues as materials are pulled/returned from Library locations
  • Communicate with Collection Management Operations Specialist on problem resolution and outcomes.
  • Develop and deliver progress reports to appropriate staff.
  • Analyze results, and troubleshoot problem areas. 
• Provide project oversight in absence of Collection Management Operations Specialist.
• Troubleshoot problems that arise.
• Complete other unit related tasks and projects as assigned. 

Student Supervising  (45%)

• Prepare daily work, organize trucks, shipments, and project lists for student employees. 
• Hire and train student employees. This includes determining need for staff support and making recommendations to Collection Management Operations Specialist as well as creating and updating student staff training tools and documentation as necessary.
• Provide ongoing supervision by coaching, mentoring, and motivating project team members and influencing them to take positive action and accountability for their assigned work. Create a welcoming environment for project team members. 
• Track student hours for projects and provide data-informed estimates for future student staffing needs. 
• Coordinate and supervise student workflow in absence of Collection Management Operations Specialist. 

Facilitate communication and coordination amongst Library staff in individual locations, facilities and shipping staff, and project staff.  (10%) 

• Communicate with staff in individual libraries locations, as well as facilities and shipping staff, regarding logistics for pulling and moving shipments of materials.
• Travel to all University Libraries including East Bank, West Bank, St. Paul and off campus locations as necessary to ensure adequate communication and project oversight.
• Communicate with Collection Management Operations Specialist on problem resolution and outcomes, and communicate with appropriate staff to ensure accurate follow-up on problems.
• Build, develop, and grow relationships vital to the success of all projects.

Required:

• College education can be substituted for library or research experience on a year for year basis up to three (3) years plus two years of relevant library experience and/or five (5) years of relevant library or research experience.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple assignments and meet deadlines.
• Strong interpersonal skills, including ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with other staff.
• Commitment to fostering diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility in the workplace.
• Ability to handle fragile and/or rare materials with care. 
• Beginner-level proficiency in Gmail, Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel) and equivalent Google Suite applications.
• Available to work in various campus library locations.Ability to regularly and carefully move items up to 40 lbs from shelving (ranging above shoulders to off the floor) to book trucks, and to push small and large library trucks (up to 500lbs) to and from loading docks with or without reasonable accommodation. 
• Ability to work in an environment in which exposure to dust, dirt, and mold  with or without reasonable accommodation.

Preferred:

• Familiarity with using library resources, including online catalogs (Alma) and databases.
• Ability to take initiative on projects and stay on task.
• Experience learning new software and technologies.
• Demonstrated ability to convey information clearly and collaborate effectively in written, digital, and interpersonal communications.
• Strong problem-solving and organizational skills.
• Attention to detail in an environment with repetitive tasks.
• Ability to adapt to a changing environment.
• Interest in, or experience with, project management.

Pay Range: $27.40/hour

Time Appointment: 100% (40 hours/week) Appointment; Temporary

Position Type: Non-Faculty Labor Represented Staff

Please visit the Office of Human Resources website for more information regarding benefit eligibility.

The University offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes:

• Competitive wages, paid holidays, and generous time off
• Continuous learning opportunities through professional training and degree-seeking programs supported by the Regents Tuition Benefit Program
• Low-cost medical, dental, and pharmacy plans
• Healthcare and dependent care flexible spending accounts
• University HSA contributions
• Disability and employer-paid life insurance
• Employee wellbeing program
• Excellent retirement plans with employer contribution
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) opportunity
• Financial counseling services 
• Employee Assistance Program with eight sessions of counseling at no cost
• Employee Transit Pass with free or reduced rates in the Twin Cities metro area

While our salary ranges provide a framework, it is important to note that most of the time, the initial pay may not reach the maximum of the range. This approach ensures that compensation reflects the value and unique contributions of each candidate while maintaining equity within our organization. As part of our commitment to fair and equitable compensation, please be aware that the salary offered to incoming candidates will be based on their individual credentials and experience.

Applications must be submitted online.  To be considered for this position, please click the Apply button and follow the instructions.  You will have the opportunity to complete an online application for the position and attach a cover letter and resume.

Additional documents may be attached after application by accessing your "My Job Applications" page and uploading documents in the "My Cover Letters and Attachments" section.

Please attach the following documents in Word or PDF Format (DO NOT copy and paste.)

1. Resume
2. Cover Letter (optional)

To request an accommodation during the application process, please e-mail employ@umn.edu or call (612) 624-8647.

The University recognizes and values the importance of diversity and inclusion in enriching the employment experience of its employees and in supporting the academic mission.  The University is committed to attracting and retaining employees with varying identities and backgrounds.

The University of Minnesota provides equal access to and opportunity in its programs, facilities, and employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression.  To learn more about diversity at the U:  http://diversity.umn.edu

Any offer of employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check. Our presumption is that prospective employees are eligible to work here. Criminal convictions do not automatically disqualify finalists from employment.

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC)

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC), is among the largest public research universities in the country, offering undergraduate, graduate, and professional students a multitude of opportunities for study and research. Located at the heart of one of the nation's most vibrant, diverse metropolitan communities, students on the campuses in Minneapolis and St. Paul benefit from extensive partnerships with world-renowned health centers, international corporations, government agencies, and arts, nonprofit, and public service organizations.

At the University of Minnesota, we are proud to be recognized by Forbes as a Best Employer for Company Culture (2026), Best Employer for Women (2023), and Best Employer by State (2022-2026). In 2026, we also received Culture Excellence & Industry Awards recognition for employee appreciation and work-life flexibility.