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Reference Specialist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Library of Congress

Librarian (Reference)

Washington, DC · On-site +1

$70K - $91K/yr

As the Librarian (Reference Specialist), you will: * Provide reference services to individual researchers and groups where needs are determined through client interviews in person or over the ...

LifeWay Christian Resources

$14.50 - $19.75/hr

Overview Lifewayis seeking a Typesetting Specialist to lead the layout and typesetting of Bible and reference book projects for our Holman Bible & Reference Publishing imprint. In this role, you will ...

Akima

Reference Architect

Springfield, VA · On-site

... specialists to integrate reference models into as-is and to-be architectures and enterprise views. • Provide subject matter expertise during technology insertion, procurement reviews, and ...

Hazelden Betty Ford

$28.09 - $40.93/hr

Referent Relations specialists provide intake and comprehensive assessment services to prospective clients. This position is responsible for assessing, screening, managing, and converting callers to ...

Akima, LLC

Reference Architect

Springfield, VA · On-site

$170K - $175K/yr

Collaborate with the Lead Architect and other domain specialists to integrate reference models into as-is and to-be architectures and enterprise views. * Provide subject matter expertise during ...

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How much do reference specialist jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for reference specialist in the United States is $23.49, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.11 and $26.44 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a reference specialist?

A Reference Specialist is a professional who assists individuals in locating and accessing information, often within libraries, archives, or research centers. They use their expertise to guide users in finding books, articles, databases, and other resources relevant to their inquiries. Reference Specialists may also help with research strategies, provide instruction on using specialized tools, and support patrons in navigating digital and physical collections. Their role is essential in connecting people with accurate and reliable information.

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

To thrive as a Reference Specialist, you typically need a background in library science or information services, strong research skills, and attention to detail. Familiarity with library databases, cataloging systems, and information retrieval tools is essential, and a master's degree in library science (MLS) is often preferred. Excellent communication, customer service orientation, and problem-solving abilities help you engage effectively with patrons and colleagues. These skills ensure accurate information delivery, user satisfaction, and efficient library operations.

How does a reference specialist typically collaborate with other departments or teams within an organization?

Reference Specialists often serve as a bridge between information resources and various departments, working closely with research teams, librarians, and subject matter experts to fulfill information requests. They may collaborate with IT staff to manage databases or with academic or corporate departments to understand specific research needs. Effective communication and teamwork skills are essential, as Reference Specialists regularly coordinate to ensure that accurate and timely information is delivered to support organizational goals.

What is the difference between Reference Specialist vs Librarian?

AspectReference SpecialistLibrarian
Required CredentialsTypically a bachelor's degree; some roles may prefer a master's in library scienceUsually a master's degree in library science (MLS) or library and information science (MLIS)
Work EnvironmentLibraries, educational institutions, corporate information centersPublic, academic, or special libraries; educational institutions
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in settings requiring specialized reference supportBroader library management and collection development roles
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding specific reference support rolesExploring library careers and management

The main difference is that Reference Specialists focus on providing research assistance and information support, often with specific subject expertise, while Librarians have broader responsibilities including managing collections, programs, and library services. Both roles require similar credentials, but Librarians typically hold advanced degrees and have a wider scope of duties.

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What are popular job titles related to Reference Specialist jobs?

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Reference Specialist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Reference Specialist job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 82% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 16% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $48,860 per year, or $23.5 per hour.

Reference Specialist Associate (Part Time)

Charlotte, NC • Hybrid

Billy Graham Evangelistic Association
Non-Profits • 501 - 1,000 employees
Learn more about Billy Graham Evangelistic Associationexternal

$13.50 - $17/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 27 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Access and understand BGEA's collections to accommodate research requests and inquiries.

  • Assist with attending the Research Room, enforce policies, and respond to research inquiries via email and phone.

  • Document research activities, supervise the Research Room when needed, and manage project tracking and collections.

Job description

Description

Is God calling you to ministry?

For over 70 years, The Billy Graham Evangelistic Association (BGEA) has proclaimed the Gospel through its various ministries. Whether you work at our headquarters in Charlotte, North Carolina, the Billy Graham Library in Charlotte, North Carolina, the Billy Graham Training Center at the Cove (BGTC) in Asheville, North Carolina, Blue Ridge Broadcasting (BRB) in Asheville, North Carolina or a field office abroad, you are part of a team of committed Christians working together to reach people to the ends of the earth with the Gospel.

CHRISTIAN PURPOSE AND EXPECTATIONS:

All employees proclaim the Gospel of Jesus Christ through their employment, and thereby further BGEA’s religious mission.

Department Detail – As an extension of the Billy Graham Library, the Billy Graham Archive and Research Center exists to preserve the historical printed, audio, and video records of Mr. Graham and his team. By promoting access to these collections, the Archive and Research Center supports the mission of the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association through inspiring and equipping future generations in proclamation evangelism, strengthening the local church, and training others in evangelism in order to help fulfill the Great Commission.

Job Summary – The Reference Specialist Associate is responsible for accessing and understanding BGEA’s many collections in order to accommodate all types of research requests and inquiries. The Reference Specialist will work under the direction of the Senior Reference Archivist to serve internal and external researchers. He/She will assist with attending the Research Room when researchers are on-site, strictly enforcing the Access and Conduct Policy. This role is classified as an Associate position, defined as working no more than 19 hours per week.

Ministry Requirements

  • Maintains a personal, active relationship with Jesus Christ and is a consistent witness for Jesus Christ
  • Faithfully upholds BGEA in prayer
  • Participates in daily BGEA staff devotions including Bible reading, and leading group prayer as schedule permits
  • Demonstrates behavior aligned with BGEA’s Mission Statement, Statement of Faith, Hallmarks, policies, and expectations
  • Effectively represents Jesus Christ to those within both personal and professional spheres of influence

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

  • Must agree to respect and accept responsibility for items of a confidential nature
  • Facilitates research of the historical records and collections both on-site and digitally in accordance with BGARC policies and procedures
  • Responds to emails and phone calls from the public concerning research inquiries and requests
  • Documents research appointments and remote requests in order to track research activity and service
  • Understands and accesses collections in order to answer internal and external inquiries and requests
  • Supervises the Research Room when needed, enforcing procedures and policies
  • Manages and updates project management software and database to accurately reflect current status of projects and collections
  • Writes historical blog posts or articles as assigned
  • Participates in professional development opportunities

Marginal Duties and Responsibilities

  • Other tasks as assigned

Job Specifications

Skills and Knowledge

  • Bachelor’s degree in Archival Studies, History, Library Science, Museum Studies, or related field, or equivalent experience
  • Experience handling and working with historical collections or other types of collections
  • Excellent ability to communicate verbally and in written form with staff of all levels of the association, as well as volunteers and the general public
  • Excellent organizational and time management skills, with strong attention to detail
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team
  • Experience with or capacity to frequently utilize Microsoft Office Suite, with particular strength in Word, Excel, and Outlook

Physical/Mental Demands

  • Must be comfortable performing repetitive tasks
  • Ability to work efficiently and productively under deadlines
  • Demonstrated flexibility to adapt to changing job parameters, deadlines, or directions
  • Ability to problem solve and find necessary solutions when problems arise
  • Ability to move boxes, objects, and/or stack materials (up to 35 lbs.) and comfortably use a rolling safety ladder

Working Conditions

  • Work is typically performed in a conventional office and archive environment
  • Occasional domestic travel possible

Mission Statement

Continuing the lifelong work of Billy Graham, the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association exists to support and extend the evangelistic calling and ministry of Franklin Graham by proclaiming the Gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ to all we can by every effective means available to us and by equipping the church and others to do the same.

Statement of Faith

These core beliefs make up the foundation upon which all our ministry endeavors are based.

  • We believe the Bible to be the inspired, the only infallible, authoritative Word of God revealing the love of God to the world.  (1 Thessalonians 2:13; 2 Timothy 3:15-17; John 3:16).
  • We believe that there is one God, eternally existent in three persons: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.
    (Matthew 28:19; John 10:30; Ephesians 4:4-6).
  • We believe in the deity of the Lord Jesus Christ, in His virgin birth, in His sinless life, in His miracles, in His vicarious and atoning death through His shed blood on the cross,

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