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Graduate Librarian Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Programming Librarian

Smithfield, UT ยท On-site

$13 - $15/hr

Must be a high school graduate or equivalent, and at least 18 years of age. All applicants to Smithfield City must pass a background check and a drug test. * Library experience is not necessary, but ...

Data Services Librarian

Chestnut Hill, MA ยท On-site

$79K - $99K/yr

... graduate and professional students. Ranked 37 among national universities, Boston College has 923 ... Boston College Libraries are seeking a Data Services Librarian to join our Digital Scholarship ...

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Graduate Librarian information

See salary details

$31K

$65.2K

$102.5K

How much do graduate librarian jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 19, 2026, the average yearly pay for graduate librarian in the United States is $65,193.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $51,500.00 and $75,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Graduate Librarian, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Graduate Librarian, you typically need a master's degree in library and information science, along with strong research and organizational skills. Familiarity with integrated library systems (ILS), digital cataloguing tools, and database management is commonly required. Strong customer service, communication, and problem-solving abilities help librarians engage with diverse patrons and support their information needs. These skills and qualifications are essential to efficiently manage library resources, facilitate information access, and foster a supportive learning environment.

What are some common challenges a Graduate Librarian may face when transitioning from academic study to a professional library environment?

Graduate Librarians often find that adapting to the pace and expectations of a professional library can be challenging. Unlike academic projects, daily responsibilities may include managing multiple reference requests, learning new library technologies, and balancing administrative tasks with patron service. Collaboration with experienced colleagues and engaging in ongoing professional development can help ease this transition. Additionally, understanding institutional policies and effectively serving a diverse user base are skills that develop with time and experience.

What is the difference between Graduate Librarian vs Library Technician?

AspectGraduate LibrarianLibrary Technician
Required CredentialsMaster's degree in Library Science (MLS or MLIS)Associate's degree or diploma in library technology
Work EnvironmentAcademic, public, or special libraries; research-focusedPublic, school, or community libraries; support roles
Employer & Industry UsageLibraries seeking professional librarians for management and specialized tasksLibraries needing technical support and operational assistance

The main difference between a Graduate Librarian and a Library Technician lies in their qualifications and responsibilities. Graduate Librarians typically hold a master's degree in library science and handle more complex, research-oriented tasks, often in academic or specialized settings. Library Technicians usually have an associate's degree and focus on operational support, cataloging, and customer service. Both roles are essential in library operations but differ in scope and level of expertise.

What are Graduate Librarians?

Graduate Librarians are individuals who have completed a graduate-level degree, typically a Master of Library and Information Science (MLIS), and work in libraries or information centers. They are trained in organizing, managing, and providing access to information resources, and may work in academic, public, or special libraries. Graduate Librarians often assist patrons with research, manage library collections, develop programs, and stay current with emerging technologies in the field.
More about Graduate Librarian jobs
What cities are hiring for Graduate Librarian jobs? Cities with the most Graduate Librarian job openings:
Infographic showing various Graduate Librarian job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 6% Internship, 77% Full Time, and 17% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $65,193 per year, or $31.3 per hour.

Librarian (Biomedical)

Department of Human Services

Rockville, MD โ€ข On-site

$85K/yr

Other

Posted 14 days ago


Job description

This position supports specialized biomedical information services, including systematic reviews and other evidence synthesis projects; publication, portfolio, and research impact analyses; data management and sharing support; and training on biomedical information resources, analytical tools, and research workflows.Qualifications:In order to meet the basic qualifications required for the Professional Librarian Series, you must meet one of the following qualifications requirements:
A. Have successfully completed at least 1 full academic year of graduate study in library science in an accredited college or university, in addition to completion of all work required for a bachelor's degree in any field.
OR
B. Have a total of at least 5 years of combined college-level education, training, and/or experience. This education, training, and/or experience provided me with a knowledge and understanding of the theories, principles, and techniques of professional librarianship; knowledge of literature resources; and the knowledge and abilities essential for providing effective library and information services.
Additionally:
To qualify at the GS-11 level, if you meet one of the following qualification requirements:
You must demonstrate in your resume at least one (1) year of qualifying experience equivalent to at least the GS-09 level in the Federal service obtained in either the private or public sector, providing library-related services (e.g., locating, cataloging, classifying, selecting, controlling, preserving, accessing content). This specialized experience includes responsibilities such as: 1.) Providing library reference and research support in locating, cataloging, classifying and selecting specialized information for use by researchers; 2.) Participating in identifying, developing and recommending policies, programs and methods to improve library efficiency; 3.) Assisting with the design and implementation of search and retrieval systems for library databases, websites or other library information systems.
OR
Completion of 3 full years of progressively higher level graduate education in library science toward a doctoral degree (Ph.D. or equivalent) related to the position.
OR
A combination of education and specialized experience that meets the qualification requirements for this position.
To qualify at the GS-12 level, if you meet one of the following qualification requirements:
You must demonstrate in your resume at least one (1) year of qualifying experience equivalent to at least the GS-11 level in the Federal service obtained in either the private or public sector, providing library-related services (e.g., locating, cataloging, classifying, selecting, controlling, preserving, accessing content). This specialized experience includes responsibilities such as: 1.) Providing direct library reference and research services in a specialized research library; 2.) Developing new approaches and methods for information and communication services for a library; 3) Using specialized software (such as EndNote, Covidence, R, Python, etc.) to respond to data calls including analyzing publications or networks for a biomedical or scientific research library; 4.) Providing tailored instruction on systematic reviews, scholarly publishing, data management and the use of print and electronic biomedical resources.
To qualify at the GS-13 level, if you meet one of the following qualification requirements:
You must demonstrate in your resume at least one (1) year of qualifying experience equivalent to at least the GS-12 level in the Federal service obtained in either the private or public sector, providing library-related services (e.g., locating, cataloging, classifying, selecting, controlling, preserving, accessing content). This specialized experience includes responsibilities such as: 1.) Providing library reference, research consultation, and information services in a specialized biomedical or scientific research library, including advising researchers, clinicians, and leadership on complex scientific and technical information needs; 2.) Leading the development, implementation, and evaluation of innovative approaches, services, or methodologies for library information management, research support, and scientific communication programs in order to improve organizational effectiveness and user engagement; 3) Using specialized software (such as EndNote, Covidence, R, Python, etc.) to design and conduct complex data analyses, publication assessments, and research impact or collaboration network studies in support of biomedical or scientific research initiatives; 4) Advising staff and research communities on data management and scholarly publishing; 5) Developing and delivering training on biomedical information resources and analytical tools.
You will receive credit for all experience material to the position, including experience gained in religious, civic, welfare, service, and organizational activities, regardless of whether you received pay. Do not copy and paste the duties or specialized experience from this announcement into your resume as that will not be considered a demonstration of your qualifications for this position.
We may verify or assess your qualifications at any time. Inflated or unsupported qualifications may affect your rating. Any misrepresentation or material omission of facts may be sufficient cause to end further consideration of your candidacy. Persons listed as knowing your past accomplishments or experience in your application may be contacted for verification purposes at any time. Verification may, but need not, begin before receiving an offer.
Preview application questionnaire before you apply: https://apply.usastaffing.gov/ViewQuestionnaire/12969709Education:This position has an education requirement. You are strongly encouraged to submit a copy of your transcripts (or a list of your courses including titles, credit hours completed and grades). Unofficial transcripts will be accepted in the application package. Official transcripts will be required from all selectees prior to receiving an official offer. Click here for information on Foreign Education.
If you qualify based on education in lieu of specialized experience, you are strongly encouraged to submit a copy of your transcripts or a list of your courses including titles, credit hours completed and grades. Unofficial transcripts will be accepted in the application packages. Official transcripts will be required from all selectees prior to receiving an official offer. Click here for information on Foreign Education.Employment Type: OTHER