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Library Scientist Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Bachelors' degree in Library Science preferred * 3-5 years of experience working in education * Knowledge of Library Science skills * Experience in computer technology including MS Office Suite

Private School Librarian

Fairfax, VA ยท On-site

$50K - $65K/yr

Bachelors' degree in Library Science preferred * 3-5 years of experience working in education * Knowledge of Library Science skills * Experience in computer technology including MS Office Suite

Information Scientist

Reston, VA ยท On-site

$182K - $200K/yr

This work requires deep expertise in library science; data/information management and value extraction; and automation, from models through GenAI. The team member will help an op-centric office make ...

ResponsibilitiesThis work requires deep expertise in library science; data/information management and value extraction; and automation, from models through GenAI. The team member will help an op ...

Information Scientist

Reston, VA ยท On-site

$182K - $200K/yr

Responsibilities This work requires deep expertise in library science; data/information management and value extraction; and automation, from models through GenAI. The team member will help an op ...

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Metadata Librarian

Rockville, MD ยท On-site

$40 - $55/hr

Master's degree in Library Science (MLS) or Master of Library and Information Science (MLIS) from an accredited institution; equivalent professional library experience may be considered in lieu of ...

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Metadata Librarian

Rockville, MD ยท On-site

$40 - $55/hr

Master's degree in Library Science (MLS) or Master of Library and Information Science (MLIS) from an accredited institution; equivalent professional library experience may be considered in lieu of ...

Showing results 21-40

Library Scientist information

See Washington salary details

$57.2K

$126.1K

$155.7K

How much do library scientist jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for library scientist in Washington is $126,107.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $107,000.00 and $155,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How much does a library scientist make?

The average salary for a library scientist is around $60,000 to $80,000 per year, depending on experience, education, and location. Professionals in this role often hold advanced degrees in library science or information management and work in academic, public, or research libraries. Salaries can vary based on the specific employer and geographic region.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a library scientist?

To thrive as a Library Scientist, you need a solid grounding in information science, research methodologies, and data organization, usually supported by a master's degree in library and information science (MLIS). Familiarity with cataloging systems (like MARC), digital archives, and library management software is typically required. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and excellent communication skills help set outstanding professionals apart in this field. These skills ensure efficient information management, user support, and the advancement of library services in an evolving digital environment.

Is library science still in demand?

Library scientists, or librarians, continue to be in demand for managing information resources, digital collections, and community services. Employment opportunities are expected to grow steadily, especially with skills in digital tools, data management, and information technology.

What does a library scientist do?

A library scientist researches, develops, and manages information systems and library technologies to improve access to information. They analyze data, design databases, and implement digital tools, often using programming skills and information management principles to enhance library services and information retrieval.

What are some typical challenges faced by library scientists in managing digital collections?

Library Scientists often encounter challenges in managing digital collections, such as ensuring proper metadata standards, integrating new technologies, and safeguarding digital assets against data loss or obsolescence. They must balance accessibility for users with copyright and licensing restrictions, and regularly evaluate digital preservation strategies. Collaboration with IT professionals and ongoing training are essential for staying current with evolving best practices in digital library science.

What is the difference between Library Scientist vs Librarian?

AspectLibrary ScientistLibrarian
Required CredentialsMaster's degree in Library Science or related field, often with research experienceMaster's degree in Library Science (MLS) or equivalent
Work EnvironmentResearch institutions, academic settings, specialized librariesPublic, school, academic, or special libraries
Employer & Industry UsageResearch organizations, universities, government agenciesPublic libraries, schools, universities, corporate libraries
Common Search & ComparisonResearch roles, data analysis, library science researchLibrary management, user services, collection development

While both Library Scientists and Librarians hold master's degrees in Library Science, Library Scientists focus more on research, data analysis, and developing new library systems, often working in academic or research settings. Librarians typically manage library operations, assist users, and curate collections in public or educational libraries. The roles overlap in credentials but differ in focus and work environment.

What is a library scientist?

Library scientists, also known as library and information scientists, are professionals who manage, organize, and facilitate access to information resources in libraries and related institutions. They use their expertise in information science, technology, and research to classify, preserve, and retrieve data for users. Library scientists also develop systems for cataloging, digital archiving, and improving information accessibility. Their work supports education, research, and the dissemination of knowledge in various settings, including public, academic, and special libraries.
What are popular job titles related to Library Scientist jobs in Washington? For Library Scientist jobs in Washington, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Library Scientist jobs in Washington look for? The top searched job categories for Library Scientist jobs in Washington are:
What cities in Washington are hiring for Library Scientist jobs? Cities in Washington with the most Library Scientist job openings:
Infographic showing various Library Scientist job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Internship, 84% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $126,107 per year, or $60.6 per hour.

Digital Products Librarian

Library Systems & Services LLC

Fort Belvoir, VA โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 27 days ago


Job description

Job Type
Full-time
Description
LAC Federal is seeking a Librarian to support a library focused on military and engineering history by managing and enhancing access to historical collections. This role supports a multidisciplinary federal environment that integrates library science, archival processing, and digital collections management. The selected candidate will perform cataloging, metadata creation, and collection analysis for print and digital historical materials, enabling discoverability and long-term preservation of United States military history. This position requires strong attention to detail, knowledge of metadata standards, and the ability to work within structured federal workflows. Some travel may be required to locations in Maryland, Washington, DC., Virginia, and Missouri.
Duties and Responsibilities
  • Perform original and copy cataloging for monographs, reports, and historical publications
  • Create, edit, and maintain metadata for digital and digitized collections
  • Apply metadata standards (e.g., MARC21, Dublin Core) to ensure consistency and interoperability
  • Support accessioning and organization of historical library and research collections
  • Conduct collection analysis, including relevance assessment and weeding recommendations
  • Collaborate with archivists and historians to align cataloging with archival description practices
  • Ensure compliance with federal and institutional cataloging standards and best practices
  • Support digitization workflows by preparing and validating metadata for ingestion into digital repositories
  • Perform quality control reviews of catalog records and metadata outputs
  • Assist with development and refinement of controlled vocabularies and subject headings
  • Provide documentation and reporting on cataloging activities and collection status
  • Coordinate with project leadership to support multiple concurrent task orders and deadlines

Requirements
  • Master's degree in Library and Information Science (MLIS/MLS) from an ALA-accredited institution
  • Minimum 2 years of experience in cataloging and metadata creation in a variety of formats, including monographs, audio and visual formats, maps, manuscripts, rare books, etc.
  • Minimum 1 one year's experience with development and/or maintenance of metadata files and the ability to identify errors in metadata
  • Demonstrated experience with MARC21 and standard library cataloging practices
  • Experience applying metadata schemas such as Dublin Core or MODS
  • Familiarity with integrated library systems (ILS) or library services platforms (EOS.Web preferred)
  • Experience working with digital collections and/or digitization workflows
  • Knowledge of controlled vocabularies (e.g., LCSH, LCNAF)
  • Strong attention to detail and ability to perform quality control on metadata records
  • Ability to work on-site in the Washington, DC metro area
  • U.S. citizenship and ability to obtain a Public Trust clearance
  • Be able to lift materials weighing up to 20 pounds.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience supporting federal libraries, archives, or cultural heritage organizations
  • Familiarity with archival standards (e.g., DACS, EAD) and hybrid library/archives environments
  • Knowledge of digitization standards and digital preservation concepts
  • Experience working with historical, government, or military collections
  • Familiarity with linked data concepts or emerging metadata frameworks
  • Experience contributing to or managing digital repositories or content management systems
  • Strong written communication skills, including documentation and reporting
  • Ability to work effectively in a multidisciplinary team (librarians, archivists, historians)
  • Experience supporting federal contract environments or task order-based work

Physical Requirements
  • Ability to sit or stand for extended periods while performing detailed cataloging, metadata entry, and computer-based work
  • Ability to lift, carry, and move library materials (e.g., books, archival boxes) up to approximately 25 pounds and handle physical collections as needed
  • Ability to travel occasionally and move between office, library, and archival environments, including accessing shelving and storage areas requiring bending, reaching, or light climbing

Benefits
  • Health Care Plan (Medical, Dental & Vision)
  • Retirement Plan (401k, IRA)
  • Life Insurance (Basic, Voluntary & AD&D)
  • Paid Time Off (Vacation, Sick & Public Holidays)
  • Family Leave (Maternity, Paternity)
  • Short Term & Long-Term Disability
  • Training & Development

EEO Statement
The company and its subsidiaries are an equal opportunity employer and celebrate the population of differences and does not discriminate in its hiring/hiring practices, regardless of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.
Nothing in this job specification restricts management's right to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time.
Critical features of this job are described under various headings above. They may be subject to change at any time due to reasonable accommodation or other reasons. The above statements are strictly intended to describe the general nature and level of the work being performed. They are not intended to be construed as a complete list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of employees in this position.
This job description in no way states or implies that these are the only duties to be performed by the employee(s) incumbent in this position. Employees will be required to follow any other job-related instructions and to perform any other job-related duties requested by any person authorized to give instructions or assignments. All duties and responsibilities are essential functions and requirements and are subject to possible modification to reasonably accommodate individuals with disabilities.
To perform this job successfully, the incumbents will possess the skills, aptitudes, and abilities to perform each duty proficiently.
Some requirements may exclude individuals who pose a direct threat or significant risk to the health or safety of themselves or others. The requirements listed in this document are the minimum levels of knowledge, skills, or abilities. This document does not create an employment contract, implied or otherwise, other than an "at will" relationship.