Library Reference & Research Technician (Onsite)

Progressive Technology Federal Systems; McLean (VA); On-site; USD 52,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

Progressive Technology Federal Systems in McLean, VA is seeking a Cleared Library Technician – Reference Paraprofessional to provide library operations, research assistance, and reference support to professional librarians and government analysts in a secure environment.

The role requires staffing the Reference Desk, performing security-aligned vault duties, and conducting research using ProQuest, LexisNexis, EBSCO, and JSTOR, with strong customer service and organizational skills.

Qualifications

• Experience in a library setting with reference services.
• Ability to perform commercial database research.
• Strong knowledge of library methodologies and circulation procedures.
• Excellent communication and customer service skills.

Responsibilities

• Staff the Library Reference Desk 8:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m., Monday through Friday.
• Perform opening and closing procedures for the library vault in accordance with security requirements.
• Provide Ready Reference services, conduct reference interviews, assess patron needs, and assist or refer to requests as appropriate.
• Conduct research using commercial databases such as ProQuest, LexisNexis, EBSCO, JSTOR, and other approved resources.
• Apply advanced search methods, including Boolean operators, fielded searches, controlled vocabularies, citation chaining, and metadata filters.
• Assist analysts with access to academic, trade, scientific, technical, and open-source publications, including government reports, think tank publications, and patent information.
• Locate information from Government sources, including CRS reports, the Federal Register, and the Code of Federal Regulations.
• Assist patrons with database access, paywalls, acquisition requests, and approved access procedures.
• Manage circulation, routing, tracking, and retrieval of physical library holdings.
• Process interlibrary loans and acquisition requests and maintain accurate tracking records.
• Conduct collection maintenance, including inventory, shelf management, and preparation of authorized weeding and disposition actions.
• Maintain database access lists, verify links, correct duplicate entries, and update resource information.
• Support the development and maintenance of searchable digital publication catalogs, including metadata, vendor title lists, and publication additions and removals.
• Assist with maintaining digital library access tools, including OneSearch, vendor-collection search resources, and related user instructions.
• Develop and update library resource guides and assist with subject-specific research materials in coordination with professional librarians.
• Provide library orientations, onsite tours, database demonstrations, and instruction on available library resources to staff and contractors.
• Assist with training materials and provide instruction on effective database searching and information retrieval.
• Document research requests, circulation activities, database updates, and other library services in designated tracking systems.
• Maintain records and provide activity information to support routine library reporting and performance requirements.
• Maintain professional and courteous relationships with customers, demonstrate excellent customer service, and assist in resolving research and resource access issues.

Skills

Advanced search

Database research

Customer service

MS Office

Education

High School Diploma

Bachelor's Degree

Tools

ProQuest

LexisNexis

EBSCO

JSTOR

Job description

Progressive Technology Federal Systems in McLean, VA is seeking a Cleared Library Technician – Reference Paraprofessional to provide library operations, research assistance, and reference support to professional librarians and government analysts in a secure environment.

The role requires staffing the Reference Desk, performing security-aligned vault duties, and conducting research using ProQuest, LexisNexis, EBSCO, and JSTOR, with strong customer service and organizational skills.