Virtual Library Assistant Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Description

LAC Federal is seeking a knowledgeable and service-oriented Biomedical Reference Librarian to provide general and specialized reference, research, and information services within a federal biomedical research library environment in Bethesda, Maryland. This position supports the advancement and dissemination of biomedical knowledge by delivering expert research assistance, literature searching, instructional support, and outreach services across a wide range of biomedical and health sciences disciplines.

The ideal candidate will possess strong reference and customer service skills, expertise with biomedical research resources, and the ability to work effectively in a dynamic, research-focused environment supporting scientists, clinicians, researchers, federal staff, students, and public users.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Provide general and specialized reference and research assistance to NLM patrons including researchers, clinicians, scientists, students, federal staff, and public users. 
• Conduct advanced literature searches using biomedical and scientific databases such as PubMed/MEDLINE, Embase, Scopus, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library. 
• Respond to reference inquiries received in person, by email, telephone, chat, or virtual reference platforms. 
• Assist users with locating, accessing, and utilizing print and electronic biomedical information resources. 
• Provide instruction and training on biomedical databases, citation management tools, research strategies, and information literacy topics. 
• Develop research guides, instructional materials, FAQs, and outreach content to support user engagement and education. 
• Support systematic reviews, evidence synthesis projects, and complex research inquiries as assigned. 
• Maintain awareness of emerging biomedical information resources, research tools, and scholarly communications trends. 
• Assist with collection maintenance, resource evaluation, and usage tracking activities. 
• Participate in outreach initiatives, workshops, exhibits, and educational programming supporting NLM services and resources. 
• Document reference transactions, service metrics, and project activities and prepare periodic reports as required. 
• Collaborate with librarians, researchers, technical staff, and program stakeholders on special projects and service improvements. 

Requirements

• Master's degree in Library and Information Science (MLIS/MLS) from an ALA-accredited institution. 
• Minimum of two (2) years of professional experience providing reference, research, or information services in a biomedical, academic, research, or federal library environment. 
• Demonstrated experience conducting literature searches using biomedical and scientific research databases including PubMed/MEDLINE. 
• Strong customer service and interpersonal communication skills. 
• Experience providing instruction, training, or user support related to library resources and research tools. 
• Proficiency using electronic information resources, integrated library systems, and online research platforms. 
• Ability to communicate effectively with scientific, technical, and general audiences. 
• Strong organizational skills and ability to manage multiple assignments in a fast-paced environment. 
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite including Outlook, Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Teams. 
• Ability to obtain and maintain a Public Trust clearance and NIH badge. 

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience working in a biomedical, health sciences, or federal research library environment. 
• Familiarity with NIH, NLM, or federal scientific research programs and information resources. 
• Experience supporting systematic reviews, evidence-based medicine, or clinical research activities. 
• Knowledge of citation management tools such as EndNote, RefWorks, Zotero, or Mendeley. 
• Experience developing online tutorials, LibGuides, webinars, or instructional materials. 
• Familiarity with bibliometric, research impact, or scholarly communications support services. 
• Undergraduate or graduate coursework in biology, medicine, public health, chemistry, or another scientific discipline. 
• Experience providing virtual reference or online user support services. 
• Membership in the Medical Library Association (MLA) or Academy of Health Information Professionals (AHIP). 
• Reading knowledge of one or more foreign languages relevant to biomedical or historical collections. 

Physical Requirements

• Ability to sit or stand for extended periods while conducting research, providing reference assistance, preparing instructional materials, and working with computer-based library and research systems. 
• Ability to perform repetitive hand and wrist movements associated with prolonged computer use, including literature searching, data entry, report preparation, and virtual reference support. 
• Ability to occasionally lift, carry, and transport library materials, presentation equipment, or office supplies weighing up to 20 pounds within a library or research environment.

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.