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Research Services Librarian Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Provides high-quality reference, research, and reader's advisory services to adult and young adult patrons. Proficient in navigating the Integrated Library System (ILS), online databases, digital ...

Adult Services Librarian

Tacoma, WA · On-site

$34.75 - $48.09/hr

Conducts complex reference interviews and provides readers' advisory, research services and instruction in person, online and other various formats. * Interprets, communicates and applies the Library ...

Conducts complex reference interviews and provides readers' advisory, research services and instruction in person, online and other various formats. * Interprets, communicates and applies the Library ...

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Research Services Librarian information

See salary details

$29K

$59.9K

$94K

How much do research services librarian jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for research services librarian in the United States is $59,852.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $38,000.00 and $78,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a research services librarian?

Research Services Librarians are professionals who assist students, faculty, and other library users with their research needs. They help patrons find, access, and evaluate information resources, provide instruction on research techniques, and often support scholarly publishing and data management. These librarians typically work in academic, public, or special libraries, and may also offer workshops or one-on-one consultations to improve information literacy. Their role is essential in facilitating access to knowledge and supporting the research process.

How does a research services librarian typically collaborate with faculty and students to support research projects?

Research Services Librarians play a key role in supporting academic research by partnering closely with faculty and students throughout the research process. They often provide individualized consultations, assist with literature reviews, and help identify appropriate information resources or databases. Additionally, they may deliver instructional workshops on research strategies, citation management, and data management best practices. Collaboration frequently involves ongoing communication to tailor support to specific research needs, ensuring that both faculty and students can effectively access and utilize library resources.

What is the difference between Research Services Librarian vs Academic Librarian?

AspectResearch Services LibrarianAcademic Librarian
CredentialsMaster's in Library Science (MLS) or equivalentMaster's in Library Science (MLS) or equivalent
Work EnvironmentSpecialized research support, often in academic or research institutionsGeneral library services across academic institutions
Primary FocusProviding research assistance, data management, and information literacyManaging collections, user services, and general library operations

The main difference is that Research Services Librarians focus specifically on supporting research activities, data management, and providing specialized research assistance, whereas Academic Librarians handle broader library functions, including collection management and user services across academic settings.

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

To thrive as a Research Services Librarian, you need a master's degree in library science (MLS/MLIS), strong research skills, and a deep understanding of information resources. Familiarity with academic databases, citation management tools, and library management systems is typically required, along with certifications like ALA accreditation. Excellent communication, problem-solving, and teaching abilities help you support diverse user needs and collaborate with faculty and students. These skills and qualities are essential for providing effective research support, facilitating information literacy, and enhancing the library's role in academic success.
More about Research Services Librarian jobs
What cities are hiring for Research Services Librarian jobs? Cities with the most Research Services Librarian job openings:
What states have the most Research Services Librarian jobs? States with the most job openings for Research Services Librarian jobs include:
Infographic showing various Research Services Librarian job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $59,852 per year, or $28.8 per hour.

Digital Services Librarian

Library Systems & Services LLC

Beltsville, MD • On-site

$75K - $82K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 10 days ago


Job description

Job Type
Full-time
Description
LAC Federal is seeking a Digital Services Librarian to support a federal library in the Washington, D.C. area in managing and advancing digital library systems, data integration, and user-centered research platforms. This role supports initiatives to improve access, discoverability, and interoperability of agency research outputs across platforms such as digital repositories, research databases, and related systems. The selected candidate will work in a collaborative federal environment to enhance metadata workflows, validate APIs, improve user interfaces, and ensure compliance with federal mandates for public access, accessibility, and data transparency. This position is ideal for a librarian with strong technical skills and experience working at the intersection of metadata, digital systems, and research data.
This position may be performed remotely or onsite in Beltsville, Maryland, depending on project needs.
Responsibilities
  • Support integration of internal and external data sources into digital platforms (e.g., PubAg, Ag Data Commons, ORCID, ARIS)
  • Develop and maintain metadata workflows to improve data quality, consistency, and discoverability
  • Perform metadata mapping, normalization, and quality control using standards such as MARC21, Dublin Core, and MODS
  • Test, validate, and troubleshoot APIs supporting access to publications, datasets, and analytics
  • Collaborate with developers and stakeholders to improve system interoperability and data exchange
  • Conduct user experience (UX) analysis to enhance search interfaces and submission workflows
  • Support Section 508 accessibility compliance for digital content and user interfaces
  • Develop dashboards and reports to track metadata quality, integration performance, and usage metrics
  • Create documentation, SOPs, and training materials for library systems and workflows
  • Participate in testing, validation, and continuous improvement of digital library tools and processes
  • Provide support for automation of data pipelines and batch processing workflows
  • Contribute to cross-platform collaboration and metadata harmonization initiatives

Requirements
  • Master's degree in Library and Information Science (MLIS) from an ALA-accredited program, or related field (e.g., Information Science, Informatics, Computer Science) with equivalent library experience.
  • Understanding of the use of metadata schema and tools (in particular MODS, MARC/MARCXML, PubMed and JATS/XML).
  • Demonstrated experience with metadata standards (e.g., MARC21, Dublin Core, MODS)
  • Experience working with integrated library systems (ILS) or library services platforms (e.g., Ex Libris Alma/Primo or similar)
  • Advanced knowledge of library automation operations and digital library services platforms
  • Experience supporting data integration, metadata workflows, or repository systems
  • Familiarity with APIs, data exchange formats (JSON, XML), and system interoperability concepts
  • Knowledge of utilizing computer technology and software (e.g., word processing, spreadsheet, and database software; web-based tools) to perform archival, records, or information management activities.
  • Awareness of federal requirements for public access to scientific research results.
  • Experience with Git version control and familiarity with GitHub or GitLab.
  • Intermediate or advanced understanding of web standards, including HTTP(S), HTML, CSS, and JavaScript.
  • Effective time management to set, manage, and meet deadlines.
  • Capacity for perpetual learning, research, and versatile problem-solving.
  • Demonstrated ability to clearly communicate technical information to technical and non-technical audiences, both in writing and verbally.
  • Experience presenting and reporting on efforts to effectively communicate to a diverse group of stakeholders across multiple organizations.
  • Comfortability working both closely and professionally with others on a technical team and independently.
  • Experience using data analysis or reporting tools (e.g., Excel, Tableau, Power BI, or similar)
  • Knowledge of accessibility standards (Section 508 or WCAG)
  • Strong analytical, problem-solving, and organizational skills
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills
  • Ability to obtain and maintain a Public Trust clearance

Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience supporting federal libraries, research institutions, or scientific data repositories
  • Experience with PubAg, Ag Data Commons, ORCID, or similar research data platforms
  • Familiarity with scripting or programming languages (e.g., Python, SQL) for data processing or automation
  • Experience with metadata crosswalks and schema mapping across systems
  • Knowledge of controlled vocabularies (e.g., LCSH, MeSH, AGROVOC)
  • Experience conducting UX research or usability testing for digital platforms
  • Familiarity with repository platforms and digital preservation practices
  • Experience with ETL processes or data pipeline development
  • Experience creating technical documentation or training materials
  • Understanding of federal public access policies and open data initiatives

Physical Requirements
  • Prolonged periods of sitting and working at a computer, including frequent use of multiple monitors, keyboarding, and mouse navigation to support data integration, metadata management, and system testing activities
  • Ability to view and analyze detailed digital records, metadata schemas, and system outputs with a high level of accuracy, including extended screen time and close visual focus
  • Ability to communicate and collaborate effectively in a virtual or onsite environment, including participation in meetings, presentations, and coordination with cross-functional teams

Benefits
  • Health Care Plan (Medical, Dental & Vision)
  • Retirement Plan (401k, IRA)
  • Life Insurance (Basic, Voluntary & AD&D)
  • Paid Time Off (Vacation, Sick & Public Holidays)
  • Family Leave (Maternity, Paternity)
  • Short Term & Long-Term Disability
  • Training & Development

EEO Statement
The company and its subsidiaries are an equal opportunity employer and celebrate the population of differences and does not discriminate in its hiring/hiring practices, regardless of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.
Nothing in this job specification restricts management's right to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time.
Critical features of this job are described under various headings above. They may be subject to change at any time due to reasonable accommodation or other reasons. The above statements are strictly intended to describe the general nature and level of the work being performed. They are not intended to be construed as a complete list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of employees in this position.
This job description in no way states or implies that these are the only duties to be performed by the employee(s) incumbent in this position. Employees will be required to follow any other job-related instructions and to perform any other job-related duties requested by any person authorized to give instructions or assignments. All duties and responsibilities are essential functions and requirements and are subject to possible modification to reasonably accommodate individuals with disabilities.
To perform this job successfully, the incumbents will possess the skills, aptitudes, and abilities to perform each duty proficiently.
Some requirements may exclude individuals who pose a direct threat or significant risk to the health or safety of themselves or others. The requirements listed in this document are the minimum levels of knowledge, skills, or abilities. This document does not create an employment contract, implied or otherwise, other than an "at will" relationship.
Salary Description
$75,000-$82,000