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Reference Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

NorthEastern

Reference Librarian SEIU

Oakland, CA

$83K/yr

Manage reference activities, including staffing the Reference Desk. * Guide students, faculty, and staff in the use of the library's physical and electronic collections. * Meet with students and ...

New

Southwestern Law School

Head of Reference

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$125K/yr

The Head of Reference manages all aspects of the library's Reference Department, ensuring that it provides high-quality research and information services to faculty, students, staff, and alumni. This ...

TrueShort

Reference Designer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site +1

Reference Designer About TrueShort TrueShort is one of the fastest-growing streaming apps in the United States. An AI studio and streaming platform where we experiment, develop and release original ...

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Reference information

See California salary details

$10.9K

$51.8K

How much do reference jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for reference in California is $51,511.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $51,300.00 and $51,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a reference?

Reference jobs typically refer to positions within libraries or information centers where professionals assist patrons in finding and using resources. These roles often include answering research questions, guiding users to appropriate materials, and teaching information literacy skills. Reference librarians or specialists may also help with database searches, citation management, and providing access to digital and physical collections. They play a crucial role in supporting education, research, and community needs. The required qualifications often include a degree in library science or a related field.

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

To thrive as a Reference Librarian, you need strong research skills, information literacy expertise, and typically a Master's in Library Science (MLS) or equivalent. Familiarity with online databases, cataloging systems like MARC, and digital reference tools is essential. Excellent communication, customer service, and problem-solving abilities help librarians effectively assist diverse patrons. These skills ensure accurate information delivery, efficient resource navigation, and a positive library experience for all users.

What are some common challenges faced by reference librarians and how can they be addressed?

Reference Librarians often encounter challenges such as managing a high volume of diverse patron inquiries, staying updated with rapidly evolving information resources, and balancing in-person and digital reference services. To address these challenges, it's important to develop strong research and communication skills, participate in ongoing professional development, and utilize collaborative tools for knowledge sharing within the library team. Building a network with colleagues and attending training sessions can also help in staying current with new databases and technology.

What is the difference between Reference vs Data Entry Clerk?

AspectReferenceData Entry Clerk
Required CredentialsTypically no formal credentials, but some roles may prefer a high school diplomaHigh school diploma or equivalent often required
Work EnvironmentOffice settings, administrative or clerical rolesOffice environments, data management tasks
Industry UsageUsed across various industries for administrative supportCommon in healthcare, finance, and administrative sectors
Search & Comparison IntentPeople compare to understand administrative rolesPeople compare to clarify data management tasks

While both Reference and Data Entry Clerk roles involve administrative tasks, Reference typically refers to providing recommendations or verifying information, whereas Data Entry Clerks focus on inputting data into systems. The credentials and work environments overlap, but their primary functions differ significantly.

What cities in California are hiring for Reference jobs?

Cities in California with the most Reference job openings:

Reference jobs near you
Infographic showing various Reference job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 1% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $51,511 per year, or $24.8 per hour.

Reference Librarian SEIU

Oakland, CA

NorthEastern
See more jobs at NorthEasternexternal

$83K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 2 days ago

New

Job description

About the Opportunity

About F. W. Olin Library

F. W. Olin Library at the Northeastern Oakland campus seeks a public service-oriented librarian to join the reference and instruction team as a Reference Librarian.

Job Summary

Reporting to the Head of Reference and Access Services, the Reference Librarian staffs the Reference Desk, plans and teaches information literacy sessions, acts as a liaison to academic departments, and participates in library outreach initiatives.

Key Responsibilities & Accountabilities

Reference Services (40%)

  • Manage reference activities, including staffing the Reference Desk.
  • Guide students, faculty, and staff in the use of the library's physical and electronic collections.
  • Meet with students and faculty individually or in groups for research appointments and assignment planning.

Information Literacy (25%)

  • Create and maintain LibGuides.
  • Lead information literacy instruction sessions.
  • Demonstrate effective use of the library's physical and electronic collections.
  • Teach research strategies and ethical research concepts based on the Association of College and Research Libraries (ACRL) Information Literacy Framework.
  • Apply critical librarianship and pedagogy principles in instructional activities.

Collection Development (15%)

  • Select and deselect library resources within assigned subject areas to support campus curriculum and faculty research.
  • Create thematic displays.
  • Develop "Olin Recommends" booktalkers and booklists.

Outreach (10%)

  • Support library programming.
  • Staff campus events and create handouts and mini-collections for activities such as Staff Wellness Fairs and First-Year Orientation.
  • Serve as a liaison to academic departments and student groups.
  • Administer library social media platforms and create related content.

General Public Services (10%)

  • Oversee the Circulation Desk as needed.
  • Search for missing books.
  • Collect fines and fees.
  • Resolve patron issues.
  • Provide computer and technology support.
  • Create signage and other public service materials.

Additional Responsibilities

  • Assist with course reserves and interlibrary loan activities as needed.
  • Record and maintain library usage and service statistics, including head counts, reference transactions, information literacy sessions, and student interactions.
  • Serve on campus and professional committees and collaborate with other campus departments.
  • Participate in professional development opportunities to remain informed about emerging trends, technologies, and innovations in librarianship.
Minimum Qualifications

Required

  • Master's degree in librarianship from an American Library Association (ALA)-accredited institution.
  • One to two years of professional experience, preferably in an academic library.
  • Effective teaching skills in both group and individual settings.
  • Demonstrated experience using databases, electronic resources, online catalogs, web-based resources, and print resources.
  • Enthusiasm for and commitment to library public services.
  • Working knowledge of hardware and software commonly used in libraries, including personal computers, Apple products, and printers.
  • Knowledge of emerging technologies and instructional methodologies.
  • Excellent communication skills with the ability to provide and follow clear instructions and communicate effectively with library users and students.
  • Strong planning, organizational, and analytical skills.
  • Ability to contribute to a positive work culture that supports customer service and teamwork.
  • Demonstrated commitment to serving and supporting the student population and learning about the communities and backgrounds represented on campus.

Preferred

  • Familiarity with an integrated library system (ILS); Ex Libris Alma preferred.
Physical, Mental and Environmental Demands
  • Ability to work one weeknight evening per week and occasional evenings and weekends as needed.
  • Ability to work extensively at a computer screen.
  • Ability to lift 10 pounds overhead and push up to 50 pounds on a book truck.
Required Documents
  • Resume

Position Type

Library

Additional Information

Northeastern University considers factors such as candidate work experience, education and skills when extending an offer.

Northeastern has a comprehensive benefits package for benefit eligible employees. This includes medical, vision, dental, paid time off, tuition assistance, wellness & life, retirement- as well as commuting & transportation. Visit https://hr.northeastern.edu/benefits/ for more information.

All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply and will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, age, sex, sexual orientation, disability status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.

Base Pay Rate:

$83,299.26

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