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Reference Specialist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Toyota Deutschland GmbH

Du bistauf der Suche nach einer neuen Herausforderung? Du möchtest internationale Erfahrungen in einem multikulturellen Team sammeln, Verantwortung übernehmen und dich im breiten Spektrum eines ...

Volks Resources

Trade & Transportation Specialist

Job Title: International Shipping Coordinator /Trade & Transportation Specialist Duration : 12 ... Cross Reference Handling Unit 2 Field * Freight Exception Queue Management * Identify the plant ...

CEM Corporation

Application Specialist

Matthews, NC · On-site

This will require identifying and performing the appropriate reference testing methods, maintaining ... Applications Specialist Responsibilities Include but not limited to:Perform standard reference ...

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Reference Specialist information

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$11

$23

$50

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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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.

Shannon Library Graduate Reference Student (Student Wage)

Remote

University of Virginia
Colleges, Universities, and Professional Schools • 10K+ employees
Learn more about University of Virginiaexternal

$16.71/hr

Other

Posted 5 days ago

University Of Virginia rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 35 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

212th of 633 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Shannon Library's Reference Desk is seeking Graduate Student workers. Preference is given to individuals available to work both weeknights and weekends.
In person and online, the Reference Desk and its staff set the tone for many library patrons' experiences with UVA Library. The primary duty of this position is providing Reference service during evenings and weekends at the Shannon Library's primary Service and Information Desk, online via our Ask-a-Librarian service, and over the phone. Reference Student Assistants help our patrons find the information they need to pursue their research, enjoy a visit to UVA, or connect with a specialist. A welcoming and solutions-oriented attitude is crucial. The ideal candidate will have customer service experience and a familiarity with or willingness to learn about a wide variety of library resources. We will provide additional training for databases, the library catalog (Virgo), research guides, and other reference skills. Reference Student Assistants must be able to make decisions autonomously and with confidence, but will also know when to refer patrons to staff or recommend a consultation with a librarian. Reference Student Assistants may open or close Reference areas and assist with building security and safety of patrons. Reference Student Assistants also provide basic Circulation services like checking out, discharging, and renewing library materials. Job duties also include working on Reference Team projects such as editing or updating the reference manual, entering metadata for our clippings indexing project, and other projects. Weekday daytime shifts are occasionally offered, and other duties may be assigned.
Attention to detail, dependability, an amicable attitude, and the ability to meet the tone of the patron are essential qualities for someone in this position. Applicants must be full-time registered graduate students (in SIS).
FWSA (i.e., Work-Study) eligibility preferred but not required.
Desired Skills:

  • A good public service attitude; enjoy working with people.
  • Excellent interpersonal communication skills.
  • Experience using library catalogs and databases for post-graduate level research and citations.
  • Willingness and ability to work an established schedule.
  • Be on time for each assigned shift.
  • Dependability and accuracy.
  • Attention to detail.
  • Ability to use computers, to learn integrated library systems, and other library technology.
  • Be able to communicate verbally in a clear manner.
  • Be able to type at a reasonable pace using good grammar and spelling for our chat service.
  • Be able to provide welcoming service to all library patrons (in person, on the telephone, and via chat) in a courteous, efficient manner.
  • Be able to read printed labels.
  • Be able to push a full book cart and lift 15 pounds.
Responsibilities:
  • Help create a welcoming, informative environment for library patrons by assisting patrons in person, on the phone, and via online chat with Reference questions at the main Shannon desk.
  • Make effective use of the library's information resources, including Virgo, the library catalog, databases, research guides, and advanced internet searches to assist patrons in answering reference questions. Refer patrons to specialist Librarians when appropriate.
  • Assist patrons in successfully navigating the Library's physical spaces as well as its services and use guidelines.
  • Assist with charging, discharging, and renewing library materials for patrons.
  • Answer basic inquiries about directions, circulation, and library use guidelines questions.
  • Assist in maintaining the appearance of the library, keeping it neat and orderly.
  • Must work a minimum of 7 hrs/week, but no more than 20 hrs/week.
  • Must be able to work weekends and during exam week periods.
  • Adhere to all library policies and procedures.
  • Assist with general library duties as required. Special projects as assigned.
  • If unable to work an assigned shift, must be able to find a substitute for that shift.

Scheduling: Work-Study employment is effective from August 25, 2026-May 14, 2027. Shannon Library. This is a wage position for 20 hours per week or less.
Compensation: The pay rate for this position is $16.71/hour.
To apply: please include a resume and cover letter highlighting customer service experience.
160 McCormick Rd
Charlottesville, VA 22904
MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS
Resume and cover letter required.
Education: Bachelor's degree. Registered as a graduate student.
Experience: none
Licensure: None
PHYSICAL DEMANDS
This is primarily a sedentary job involving extensive use of desktop computers. The job does occasionally require traveling some distance to attend meetings, and programs.
The University of Virginia is an equal opportunity employer. All interested persons are encouraged to apply, including veterans and individuals with disabilities. Learn more about UVA's commitment to non-discrimination and equal opportunity employment.

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About University of Virginia

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The University of Virginia is distinctive among institutions of higher education. Founded by Thomas Jefferson in 1819, the University sustains the ideal of developing, through education, leaders who are well-prepared to shape the future of the nation.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Charlottesville, VA, US

Year founded

1819

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