Reference Library Technician: Research & Digital Resources

PTFS; McLean (VA); On-site; USD 42,000 - 56,000; Full time

Job summary

PTFS in McLean, VA is seeking a Library Technician – Reference Paraprofessional to provide library operations, reference support to librarians, analysts, and authorized personnel. The role emphasizes database research, circulation, digital resource maintenance, and superior customer service.

You will staff the Reference Desk, perform security procedures, assist with access to government and academic publications, interlibrary loans, and metadata maintenance.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma and 5 years library experience
• Bachelor's Degree and 3 years library experience
• Broad understanding of world politics, geography, and international relations
• Strong knowledge of library methodologies, organizational structures, reference services, and circulation procedures
• Experience conducting reference interviews and providing research assistance
• Experience using ProQuest, LexisNexis, EBSCO, and JSTOR
• Familiarity with digital catalogs, metadata, and database maintenance
• Proficient in Microsoft Office applications

Responsibilities

• Staff the Library Reference Desk 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., Monday through Friday
• Perform opening and closing procedures for the library vault
• Provide Ready Reference services and conduct reference interviews
• Conduct research using commercial databases such as ProQuest, LexisNexis, EBSCO, JSTOR
• Apply advanced search methods and metadata filters
• Assist analysts with access to publications including government reports
• Locate information from Government sources including CRS reports and CFR
• Assist patrons with database access and acquisition requests
• Manage circulation, routing, tracking, and retrieval of holdings
• Process interlibrary loans and acquisition requests
• Maintain database access lists and update resource information
• Support development of searchable digital catalogs and metadata
• Assist with training materials and instruction on database searching
• Document research requests and library activities in tracking systems
• Maintain records for routine reporting and performance requirements

Skills

Customer service

Communication

Problem-solving

Organization

Teamwork

Independent work

Education

High School Diploma

Bachelor's Degree

Tools

Microsoft Office

Database research tools

Job description

PTFS in McLean, VA is seeking a Library Technician – Reference Paraprofessional to provide library operations, reference support to librarians, analysts, and authorized personnel. The role emphasizes database research, circulation, digital resource maintenance, and superior customer service.

You will staff the Reference Desk, perform security procedures, assist with access to government and academic publications, interlibrary loans, and metadata maintenance.