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Subject Specialist, Berkshire Athenaeum, Pittsfield, MA

Posted January 19, 2017

DEADLINE TO APPLY: FRIDAY, JANUARY 27, 2017
INTERESTED CANDIDATES: Apply at http://cityofpittsfield.hyrell.com
POSITION TITLE: Supervisor / Specialist I
GRADE LEVEL: 9
SALARY RANGE: $17.18 – $25.19, Hourly
FLSA: Non-Exempt

PRIMARY FUNCTIONS: Positions classified in this grade are professional in nature and involve working as part of the Reference Team, under the general supervision of the Reference Services Supervisor, in meeting library and departmental goals. Decision-making and problem solving, including interpretation of library policy and the exercise of independent judgment are necessary. In-depth knowledge and ability in advanced library procedures, including research and the teaching of research skills are required. Comfort with technology and a commitment to keeping tech skills current are essential. Initiative in project planning and outreach to promote library services in the community is desired. Public desk staffing is routinely involved. Some clerical tasks are assigned.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS / RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Performs specific tasks assigned by the supervisor, including one time and ongoing projects.
  • Initiates and/or manages programs to promote library services.
  • Makes selections for purchase in areas of subject specialty.
  • Coordinates acquisition of library’s periodical collection, or coordinates library’s interlibrary loan services, performing associated clerical duties.
  • Applies problem solving abilities; routinely addresses complaints.
  • Performs complex catalog, database and internet searches.
  • Provides public desk coverage, including assisting library patrons by answering reference questions of higher complexity; by locating and using department materials and equipment; and by maintaining public decorum.
  • Assists in the training and supervision of subordinate staff.
  • Identifies opportunities and accepts assignments for program planning and execution, which may include budgeting, space planning, promotion, report writing and associated outreach.
  • Uses the library’s audio-visual, office and computer equipment and resources, and may routinely offer training to staff and/or public in its use.
  • May be cross-trained for grade-appropriate professional assignments in other library departments.
  • Other duties as assigned, including clerical and shelving tasks as required.

SUPERVISION RECEIVED: Library Director and/or Senior Supervisor.

SUPERVISION EXERCISED: Assigns work to Library Aides, Library Assistants, Senior Assistants, Senior Technicians in the absence of the supervisor.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

Education: A master’s degree in library science. Exceptional candidates with a combination of three years of related experience and/or education will be considered.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

  • Specialized knowledge of library operations and services.
  • Skill in collecting, organizing and analyzing numerical data.
  • General knowledge of office procedures.
  • Knowledge of current trends in field of expertise (e.g., online searching, business resources, music and arts resources, local history, genealogy, archives, etc.).
  • Knowledge of reference services and sources
  • Solid understanding of integrated library systems, computing, mobile technology and basic hardware and software for initial troubleshooting.
  • Ability to discern patrons’ needs and to communicate clearly when answering questions and providing information.
  • Skill in personal time management.
  • Skill in written communication.
  • Ability to organize and present information to a group.
  • Demonstrated ability to effectively interact with general public in an urban library setting.

TOOLS AND EQUIPMENT USED: The employee is required to use a variety of desktop and portable computer devices, general office equipment, digital microfilm reader and printers, and may be required to use digital camera.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS: The physical demands described are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

  • While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to manage multiple patron inquiries, in person or on the phone, maintain a service desk presence, and move items up to 20 lbs.
  • The position requires routine work on computer screens with text, images and numerical data.

WORK ENVIRONMENT: The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

  • Work is performed in an open, public environment with significant foot traffic.
  • This position requires routine evening and Saturday assignments. At these times the employee may be the senior staff member on duty in the library.

This job description does not constitute an employment agreement between the employer and employee and is subject to change by the employer as the needs of the employer and requirements of the job change.

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