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Reference Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Howard University

Reference Librarian

Washington, DC · On-site

... basic reference questions and escalate more complex inquiries to senior librarians as needed. o Develop faculty research support skills. • Library Instruction and Information Literacy: o Help ...

City of New York

Reference Librarian

Manhattan, NY · On-site

$50K - $60K/yr

Company Description The New York County District Attorney's Office (DANY) Library has an opening for a Reference Librarian. In this position the Librarian is responsible for offering legal and other ...

City of New York

Reference Librarian

Manhattan, NY

The New York County District Attorney's Office (DANY) Library has an opening for a Reference Librarian. In this position the Librarian is responsible for offering legal and other types of research ...

Howard University

Reference Librarian

Washington, DC · On-site

$48K - $58K/yr

... basic reference questions and escalate more complex inquiries to senior librarians as needed. o Develop faculty research support skills. • Library Instruction and Information Literacy: o Help ...

Howard

Reference Librarian

Library, PA · On-site

$48K - $58K/yr

... reference questions and escalate more complex inquiries to senior librarians as needed. o Develop faculty research support skills. Library Instruction and Information Literacy: o Help prepare and ...

City of New York

Reference Librarian

Manhattan, NY

The New York County District Attorney's Office (DANY) Library has an opening for a Reference Librarian. In this position the Librarian is responsible for offering legal and other types of research ...

Tamus

Reference and Instruction Librarian

Laredo, TX · On-site

$59K/yr

Job Title Reference and Instruction Librarian Agency Texas A&M International University Department Killam Library Proposed Minimum Salary Commensurate Job Location Laredo, Texas Job Type Faculty ...

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Reference information

See salary details

$11K

$52.5K

How much do reference jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for reference in the United States is $52,194.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $52,000.00 and $52,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 is a reference job?

A reference job typically refers to a position where an employee's previous work experience is used to verify their skills, work ethic, and reliability. Employers often contact references provided by candidates to gather insights before making hiring decisions. This process helps ensure the candidate's qualifications align with the job requirements.

What are Reference jobs?

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 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 job makes $10,000 a month without a degree?

High-paying jobs that can reach $10,000 a month without a degree often include roles such as sales managers, real estate brokers, or skilled trades like electricians and plumbers, especially with experience and certifications. Success in these fields typically depends on skills, performance, and sometimes licensing, rather than formal education.

Do reference librarians still exist?

Yes, reference librarians still exist and work in libraries, educational institutions, and information centers. They assist users in locating information, using research tools, and developing research skills, often requiring knowledge of cataloging, databases, and information management.

What is the highest paying librarian job?

The highest paying librarian roles are often in specialized areas such as law, medical, or corporate librarians, with law librarians and medical librarians typically earning the highest salaries. These positions usually require advanced degrees, certifications, and expertise in their respective fields, and they often work in institutional or corporate environments with higher compensation packages.

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.
More about Reference jobs
What cities are hiring for Reference jobs? Cities with the most Reference job openings:
What states have the most Reference jobs? States with the most job openings for Reference jobs include:
Reference jobs near you
Infographic showing various Reference job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Locum Tenens, 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 8% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $52,194 per year, or $25.1 per hour.
Reference Librarian

Reference Librarian

Howard University

Washington, DC • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Howard University rating

8.7

Company rating: 8.7 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

40th of 537 rated colleges and universities

Job description

The Talent Acquisition department hires qualified candidates to fill positions which contribute to the overall strategic success of Howard University. Hiring staff "for fit" makes significant contributions to Howard University's overall mission.
At Howard University, we prioritize well-being and professional growth.
Here is what we offer:
  • Health & Wellness: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance, plus mental health support
  • Work-Life Balance: PTO, paid holidays, flexible work arrangements
  • Financial Wellness: Competitive salary, 403(b) with company match
  • Professional Development: Ongoing training, tuition reimbursement, and career advancement paths
  • Additional Perks: Wellness programs, commuter benefits, and a vibrant company culture

Join Howard University and thrive with us!
https://hr.howard.edu/benefits-wellness
SUPERVISORY AUTHORITY: Responsible for orienting and training student assistants and reviewing their work.
NATURE AND SCOPE: Internal contacts include students, staff, faculty, and administrators. External contacts include vendors, local firms, agencies and external libraries, consortium students, visiting scholars, and the public.
PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTABILITIES:
• Research Assistance:
o Assist students, faculty, and staff with finding information, utilizing print and electronic resources, and conducting research.
o Provide help with searching library catalogs, academic databases, and other online resources.
o Answer basic reference questions and escalate more complex inquiries to senior librarians as needed.
o Develop faculty research support skills.
• Library Instruction and Information Literacy:
o Help prepare and deliver instructional sessions, workshops, and orientations on how to use library resources and research tools.
o Assist with developing and updating instructional materials and guides for students and faculty.
o Provide one-on-one research assistance during scheduled hours or by appointment.
• Collection Development Support:
o Assist in evaluating, selecting, and maintaining library materials for specific subject areas or collections.
o Analyze usage statistics to make data-informed decisions.
o Participate in weeding outdated or unused materials and recommending new acquisitions based on user needs and academic requirements.
• Technology Support and Professional Development:
o Assist users with accessing electronic resources, including e-books, databases, and journals.
o Support the library's online presence by helping manage the library's website, social media, or digital collections.
o Familiarity with library management systems and cataloging software.
o Develop proficiency in creating and teaching with LibGuides
o Develop proficiency in Canvas (the campus learning management system (LMS)
o Complete a certification in usability testing, Creative Commons, and/or Tableau
o Complete the Google Certified Educator Level 2
• Professional Development:
o Participate in workshops, seminars, and professional development opportunities to improve knowledge and skills in academic librarianship.
o Participate in a Washington Research Library Consortium (WRLC) Committee
o Develop a subject expertise area.
o Collaborate with senior librarian staff on library projects and initiatives.
• Perform other duties as assigned.
CORE COMPETENCIES:
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills.
• A customer service-oriented approach with the ability to interact professionally with a diverse range of library users.
• Basic knowledge of library catalogs, databases, and digital tools.
• Ability to work both independently and as part of a collaborative team.
• Flexibility and eagerness to learn and grow in the library profession.
MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:
• Master's degree in library science (MLS), Library and Information Science (MLIS), or a related field from an accredited institution.
• Knowledge of library services and management
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