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Public Library Jobs in San Rafael, CA (NOW HIRING)

Community Library Specialist

San Rafael, CA · On-site

$39.71 - $46.84/hr

The Marin County Free Library (MCFL) is a special taxing district that operates ten branch libraries in Marin under the authority of the Board of Supervisors It provides public library services to ...

Community Library Specialist

CA · On-site

$39.71 - $46.84/hr

It provides public library services to the residents of the unincorporated areas of the County and the cities of Corte Madera, Fairfax and Novato. The Marin County Free Library is an innovative and ...

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Public Library information

See San Rafael, CA salary details

$34K

$71.6K

$113.7K

How much do public library jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for public library in San Rafael, CA is $71,553.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $55,200.00 and $86,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Public Library vs Librarian?

AspectPublic LibraryLibrarian
CredentialsVaries; often requires a master's degree in library science (MLS)Typically requires an MLS or equivalent degree
Work EnvironmentPublic spaces serving community members, including children, adults, and seniorsLibraries, educational institutions, or archives; involves organizing and managing collections
Employer & IndustryPublic libraries, government agenciesLibraries, educational institutions, archives
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding what a public library offersRoles and responsibilities of a librarian

Public libraries are community-focused institutions providing access to books, resources, and programs. Librarians are professionals who manage library collections, assist patrons, and organize information. While public libraries are the setting, librarians are the key personnel working within these institutions. Both roles often require similar qualifications, but the library itself is a service point, whereas librarians are the staff delivering those services.

What jobs can you work at a library?

Jobs at a library include librarian, library assistant, library technician, archivist, and library clerk. These roles involve tasks such as managing collections, assisting patrons, cataloging materials, and maintaining library operations, often requiring relevant education or certifications and familiarity with library management systems.

What are some common challenges faced by staff working in a public library, and how are they addressed?

Public library staff often encounter challenges such as managing diverse patron needs, addressing technology-related questions, and handling periods of high visitor volume. To address these, staff receive ongoing training in customer service, digital literacy, and conflict resolution. Collaborative teamwork is essential, with librarians and support staff frequently communicating to ensure smooth daily operations and equitable service for all visitors. Many libraries also implement clear policies and utilize flexible scheduling to help staff manage workloads effectively.

What is a public library?

A public library is a community-based institution that provides free access to books, digital resources, and various educational and cultural programs for people of all ages. Funded primarily by public money, these libraries offer lending services, internet access, research assistance, and spaces for study and community events. Public libraries aim to support literacy, lifelong learning, and equal access to information for everyone, regardless of background or income.

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

To thrive as a Public Librarian, you need a master's degree in library and information science (MLIS), knowledge of cataloging, and strong information literacy skills. Familiarity with integrated library systems (ILS), digital databases, and electronic resource management is typically required. Exceptional customer service, communication, and community engagement skills help librarians connect with diverse patrons and foster a welcoming environment. These competencies ensure effective resource management, information access, and impactful support for community learning and enrichment.

What Are the Qualifications to Work in a Public Library?

The qualifications you need to start a career in a public library depend on your job and its responsibilities. Library assistants need at least a high school diploma, while library technicians need previous experience and an associate degree or postsecondary certificate in library sciences. Librarians need a degree in library sciences. Most public libraries expect a master’s degree in library sciences (MLS), though some may hire specialists who have a related degree, such as a degree in information systems. All positions require customer service skills. Library directors and head librarians typically have 10 or more years of experience.

What qualifications are needed to work at a public library?

To work at a public library, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent; some positions, such as librarian roles, require a master's degree in library science. Customer service skills, familiarity with library systems and technology, and sometimes relevant certifications are also important for many library jobs.

Can you work at a library without being a librarian?

Yes, many library jobs do not require a librarian certification and include positions such as library assistants, clerks, or technicians. These roles often involve tasks like shelving, customer service, and administrative support, and may require basic computer skills and a high school diploma or equivalent.

Is it hard to get hired as a librarian?

Getting hired as a librarian typically requires a master's degree in library science or information studies and relevant experience. Competition can vary depending on the location and type of library, but strong organizational skills and familiarity with library management systems improve chances of employment.
What are the most commonly searched types of Public Library jobs in San Rafael, CA? The most popular types of Public Library jobs in San Rafael, CA are:
What are popular job titles related to Public Library jobs in San Rafael, CA? For Public Library jobs in San Rafael, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Public Library jobs in San Rafael, CA look for? The top searched job categories for Public Library jobs in San Rafael, CA are:
What cities near San Rafael, CA are hiring for Public Library jobs? Cities near San Rafael, CA with the most Public Library job openings:
Infographic showing various Public Library job openings in San Rafael, CA as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% As Needed, 38% Full Time, 56% Part Time, and 3% Temporary. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $71,553 per year, or $34.4 per hour.
TEX - Stationary Engineer - San Francisco Public Library (7334) - 164086

TEX - Stationary Engineer - San Francisco Public Library (7334) - 164086

City and County of San Francisco

San Francisco, CA • On-site

$132K/yr

Full-time

Posted 20 days ago


City And County Of San Francisco rating

9.0

Company rating: 9.0 out of 10

Based on 25 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

93rd of 833 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

Company Description
Application Opening - Monday, June 22, 2026
Application Deadline - This recruitment may close at any time, but not earlier than 5:00pm on Monday, July 06, 2026.
Compensation: $132,912 Annually
Recruitment ID:RTF0164085-01094320
Appointment Type: This is a Temporary Exempt Category 17 position limited to no more than two (2) years in duration. Category 17 employees are used to backfill a Permanent Civil Service (PCS) employee on a leave of absence. This position is exempt from Civil Service and shall serve at the discretion of the Department Head.
The San Francisco Public Library (SFPL) is dedicated to connecting our diverse communities to learning, opportunities and each other. The library system includes the architecturally significant Main Library, an anchor institution in the City's Civic Center, 27 neighborhood branch libraries that serve all neighborhoods throughout the City, two administrative buildings and four bookmobiles. With a collection of more than 3.7 million items, and circulation exceeding 14 million each year, SFPL serves more than 4 million visitors annually. The library embraces its role as the most democratic of institutions, providing safe and welcoming facilities for all. Through a robust array of services and programs, the library places an emphasis on literacy and learning, digital inclusion, social justice, equity, and healthy communities. For more information about SFPL, please visit www.sfpl.org.
The San Francisco Public Library (SFPL) must build a culture, space, and workplace that is accessible and welcoming to all current and future employees, and to actively build an environment in which all people, regardless of background, identity, or ability, can be equal participants. In this way, our staff at all organizational levels can reflect the communities we serve. A safe, equitable public library is an actively anti-racist public library. Creating an inclusive public library means aligning with the lived realities of people of color. The San Francisco Public Library is committed to advancing racial equity for our workforce and community. SFPL will actively engage in anti-racist practice, programs, and collection development in carrying out the Library's mission.
Job Description
Under general supervision, operates, maintains, troubleshoots, and repairs a wide variety of pumping, heating, ventilating, air conditioning, refrigeration and auxiliary plant machinery and equipment at Library locations, including the Main Library, 27 branch libraries, and two support buildings. Ensures that all equipment, machinery and systems are functioning normally and safely, and complies with all applicable safety rules and regulations.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Operates, maintains and repairs a wide variety of pumping, heating, ventilating, air conditioning, refrigeration, and power generating equipment in a large complex or multi-faceted facility to ensure the safe, correct and efficient functioning of the facility and equipment may be required to operate computerized building management systems, preventative or predictive maintenance computer systems or Computerized Data Gathering System (SCADA).
  • Inspects and tests: machinery and equipment for safe, efficient and proper operation by visual and audio inspection during walk-throughs and by standard monitoring; fire prevention equipment to ensure safe and proper functionality; water storage and multiple distribution systems, high pressure zones, wood and steel storage tanks, pumps and relief valves, and samples of water.
  • Makes entries and keeps records on shift operation by taking and entering gauge readings and accurate water laboratory analysis readings and temperatures on operating log sheets or into a computer data system to ensure preventative maintenance and equipment history; and changes charts and recordings accordingly.
  • Receives, records and stores large amounts of treatment chemicals and may handle hazardous chemicals in confined or enclosed areas; must be capable of safely and properly handling chemical spills; may also include handling and treatment of industrial or hazardous waste.
  • Contacts, communicates and is required to deal with contractors, building tenants and/or the general public in order to be able to discharge assigned duties.
  • Maintains keys, communications equipment, and security (in the absence of Security Personnel), in order to ensure the security of a plant and buildings and grounds, including public safety. As part of an emergency response team, recognizes, evaluates, and responds to potentially hazardous situations.
  • Performs control tests on water samples to determine chlorine and fluoride residual, pH, alkalinity, turbidity, color, saturation index and flocculation factors; under supervision, conducts water analysis and regulates treatment chemical dosages to maintain water quality in filtration plant, distribution system, or other large complex facility may also be required to perform water analysis on water/wastewater as required by the State of California; performs boiler water and cooling tower chemical tests, including pH, alkalinity TDS, etc., to monitor and control growth of organisms in water.

Desired Qualification(s):
  • Experience and technical knowledge and understanding of Building Mechanical systems, HVAC, plumbing, electrical and fire life safety systems. This can include but not limited to operation, maintenance and minor repair of boilers, chillers, pumps and generators.
  • Proficient in Computerized Maintenance Management Systems.
  • Experience with resolving and diagnosis of mechanical issues; Experience and ability to troubleshoot equipment failures, respond in an efficient and effective approach to repair equipment to minimize downtime and operation of equipment.
  • Experience working with potentially hazardous equipment. Knowledge and implementation of safety protocols and procedures, OSHA guidelines and CA safety regulations.
  • Experience in monitoring equipment operations, reading and interpreting gauges and meters accurately to ensure optimal operation of equipment; Assess and proactive approach to detect any potential issues.
  • Ability to perform physical tasks, such as lifting heavy equipment, climbing ladders, and working in confined spaces.
  • Experience working in a team, with trades, contractors, consultants, and professional staff to effectively resolve maintenance- repair issue through oral and written communication, to report and coordinate projects and tasks.
  • Customer service skills, interpersonal skills, active listening, communication and problem-solving skills.

Work Schedule: These positions will begin with a Monday thru Friday 7:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. work schedule to provide initial training on the role. Once the initial training is complete, the normal work schedule for the position may include weekend and evening hours; appointee must be willing to work this schedule.
Qualifications
Minimum Qualifications:
Experience: Four (4) years of verified journey-level stationary engineer experience in the maintenance, repair and operation of a variety of mechanical and electrical pumping, heating, air conditioning, ventilating and related plant machinery used in a government establishment, hospital, industrial, production or commercial building
License and Certification:
Possession of a valid California Driver's License AND
Possession at time of hire a Universal Chlorofluorocarbon (CFC) certificate issued by the Federal Environmental Protection Agency.
Substitution:
Any of the following may be substituted for the required experience:
  • Completion of a recognized four-year Stationary Engineer apprenticeship program
  • Graduation from a recognized four-year Maritime Academy with a degree in engineering or technology
  • Possession of at least a 3rd Assistant Marine Engineer's License of any (unrestricted) horsepower

Verification: Applicants may be required to submit verification of qualifying education and experience at any point during the recruitment and selection process. If education verification is required, information on how to verify education requirements, including verifying foreign education credits or degree equivalency, can be found at How to Verify Education Requirements / Department of Human Resources
Verification of qualifying experience, when requested, must be documented on the employer's business letterhead and must include the name of the applicant, job title(s), dates of employment, description of job duties performed, and signature of the employer or the employer's authorized representative. Experience claimed in self-employment will only be accepted if supported by documents verifying income, earnings, business license and experience comparable to minimum qualifications above. Copies of income tax papers or other documents listing occupation and total earnings must be submitted. Employees of the City and County of San Francisco may submit performance evaluations showing duties performed to verify qualifying City experience. City employees will receive credit for the duties of the class to which appointed. Credit for experience obtained outside of the employee's class will be allowed only if recorded in accordance with the provisions of Civil Service Commission Rules. Verification may be waived if impossible to obtain. The applicant must submit a signed statement explaining why verification cannot be obtained. Waiver requests will be considered on a case-by-case basis. Failure to provide the required verification, or request for waiver when requested may result in rejection of the application.
Note: Falsifying one's education, training, or work experience or attempted deception on the application may result in disqualification for this and future job opportunities with the City and County of San Francisco.
Applicants must meet the minimum qualification requirement by the final filing date unless otherwise noted.
Information submitted after the filing deadline will not be considered in determining whether candidate meets the minimum qualifications. Applications completed improperly may be cause for ineligibility and disqualification.
Selection Procedures: The selection process will include evaluation of applications in relation to minimum requirements. Applicants meeting the minimum qualifications are not guaranteed advancement to the interview. Depending on the number of applicants, the Department may establish and implement additional screening mechanisms to comparatively evaluate the qualifications of candidates. If this becomes necessary, only those applicants whose qualifications most closely meet the needs of the Department will be invited to participate in the oral/performance interview.
Additional Information
Additional Information Regarding Employment with the City and County of San Francisco:
  • Information About the Hiring Process
  • Conviction History
  • Employee Benefits Overview
  • Equal Employment Opportunity
  • Disaster Service Worker
  • ADA Accommodation
  • Veterans Preference
  • Right to Work
  • Copies of Application Documents
  • Diversity Statement

HOW TO APPLY
Applications for City and County of San Francisco jobs are only accepted through an online process. Visit https://careers.sf.gov/ and begin the application process.
  • Select the "Apply Now" button and follow instructions on the screen

Applicants may be contacted by email about this recruitment and, therefore, it is their responsibility to ensure that their registered email address is accurate and kept up-to-date. Also, applicants must ensure that email from CCSF is not blocked on their computer by a spam filter. To prevent blocking, applicants should set up their email to accept CCSF mail from the following addresses (@sfgov.org, @sfdpw.org, @sfport.com, @flysfo.com, @sfwater.org, @sfdph.org, @asianart.org, @sfmta.com, @sfpl.org, @dcyf.org, @first5sf.org, @famsf.org, @ccsf.edu, @smartalerts.info, and @smartrecruiters.com).
Applicants will receive a confirmation email that their online application has been received in response to every announcement for which they file. Applicants should retain this confirmation email for their records. Failure to receive this email means that the online application was not submitted or received.
Human Resources Analyst Information: If you have any questions regarding this recruitment or application process, please send your inquires to Christian Molina, Senior Human Resources Analyst at christian.molina@sfpl.org.
The City and County of San Francisco encourages women, minorities and persons with disabilities to apply. Applicants will be considered regardless of their sex, race, age, religion, color, national origin, ancestry, physical disability, mental disability, medical condition (associated with cancer, a history of cancer, or genetic characteristics), HIV/AIDS status, genetic information, marital status, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, gender expression, military and veteran status, or other protected category under the law.

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