Librarian: Scholarly Communication & Postgraduate Support

Rhodes University; Oos-Kaap; On-site; ZAR 631 000 - 828 000; Full time

Job summary

A prominent South African university is seeking a Librarian for Scholarly Communication and Postgraduate Support. The role involves enhancing the postgraduate and researcher experience through collaboration with various departments and coordinating Open Access initiatives. Applicants should possess a relevant B Degree and around 6 years of relevant experience, including substantial time in an academic library. The position promises a supportive environment focused on diversity and excellence.

Qualifications

• Approximately 6 years of relevant experience, including 4 years in a computerized academic or research library.
• Current exposure to digital library systems and IT applications.
• At least 2 years of supervisory experience.

Responsibilities

• Contribute to the postgraduate and researcher experience.
• Coordinate Open Access activities and raise awareness of scholarly communications.

Skills

Computer literacy

IT applications

Electronic library tools

Supervisory skills

Education

Relevant B Degree (NQF level 7)

Job description

Librarian: Scholarly Communication & Postgraduate Support (Grade14)

Library Services Division

The Library Services Division invites suitably qualified candidates to join their team.

Main Objectives

The Librarian: Scholarly Communication will contribute to the library's overall postgraduate and researcher experience by facilitating a working relationship with the Research Office and the Postgraduate Centre. The emerging demand of the digital environment requires the library to ensure the accessibility and visibility of the institutional research output and the ethical use thereof. The incumbent will also be responsible for initiating and coordinating Open Access activities and raising awareness of scholarly communications.

The Requirements

A relevant B Degree (NQF level 7) and approximately 6 years' relevant experience, where such experience includes:

• Having worked in a computerised academic or research library for at least 4 years with appropriate experience.
• Current exposure to computer literacy, IT applications and electronic library & information tools applied in the research environment.
• At least 2 years of supervisory experience.

Application Process

It is essential that prospective candidates read the job profile for further information and ensure that all relevant documentation is submitted.

The following documents are required:

• A comprehensive CV and relevant qualifications, which should include the following:
  • Reasons for leaving your current and previous jobs.
  • Referees who are and/or were your direct line manager, their title, name, designation, and contact information, which should be at least their contact number and email address.
• A strong and succinct motivation outlining your interest in the post and suitability relative to the job requirements.

Please note that no hand‑written applications will be considered. Your application must be submitted via our website and online recruitment system. Failure to submit all documentation and respond to all the questions asked appropriately will result in an application being disqualified.

Any questions or enquiries regarding the submission of an application please contact 046 603 7266.

3>Selection Process (provisional date, subject to change)

• Short‑listing meeting dates to be confirmed.
• The selection process that will be followed for this post will include an assessment and/or presentation and an interview.
• Shortlisted candidates will be informed of the interview date.

Remuneration per annum (Grade 14)

Basic Pensionable Salary per annum: R631 442

Cost to Company per annum (Approximately): R827 312

All applications will be treated in strict confidence. This post is advertised as a permanent post, but the University may opt to appoint on a fixed‑term contract of not less than three years. The University reserves the right not to proceed with the filling of the post. An application does not entitle the applicant to an interview. Employment checks will be conducted on recommended candidates.

Closing Date: 26 January 2026

This advertisement may be closed before the indicated closing date if a high number of applications are received. To ensure your application is considered, please submit it as soon as possible.

If you are not contacted within 30 days from the closing date, please consider your application unsuccessful.

Recognising that diversity is important in achieving excellence. Rhodes University strongly encourages South African members of under‑represented designated groups as well as persons with disabilities to apply. Spouses and partners of existing staff members are also encouraged to apply.

Please note all appointments are made in line with the requirements of the Employment Equity Act 55 of 1998, as amended, the Immigration Act 13 of 2022 and Rhodes University’s Recruitment and Selection policies.

Our core values and principles are the foundation of our commitment to creating a positive, supportive, and enabling environment. These values guide our decisions, actions, and how we engage with each other as we work to achieve our vision and mission.

Diversity; Integrity; Respect; Excellence; Collegiality and Compassion

Underpinning these values is the moral duty of accountability and courage: we acknowledge that we are answerable to each other, our Council and ultimately, the South African society for the decisions we make and the actions we take. We are committed to openness and transparency in our governance, our decision‑making and in the execution of our responsibilities and in demonstrating courage in confronting those who violate the values for which we stand.