UMass Amherst, the Commonwealth's flagship campus, is a nationally ranked public research university offering a full range of undergraduate, graduate and professional degrees. The University sits on nearly 1,450-acres in the scenic Pioneer Valley of Western Massachusetts, and offers a rich cultural environment in a bucolic setting close to major urban centers. In addition, the University is part of the Five Colleges (including Amherst College, Hampshire College, Mount Holyoke College, and Smith College), which adds to the intellectual energy of the region. The Science and Engineering Library (SEL) Academic Support Coordinator provides technical oversight of the Learning Studio and technology-enabled spaces in SEL and provides research and technology support. This position supervises branch operations on weekends, resolves complex problems, interprets established policies and procedures, and coordinates and oversees security activities.
Oversees and assists with technology in the Learning Studio and other technology- enabled spaces in the Science and Engineering Library, including Visix monitors. Works collaboratively with LTS to maintain technology in these spaces. Coordinates scheduling for studio use, operates equipment in the learning studio, and ensures equipment is operational for instructors. Creates documentation and software tutorials in support of patron and staff use of the learning studio. Creates reports on studio use as needed.
Trains and oversees library staff and student assistants in the application and interpretation of research and technology support services, policies and procedures established for the libraries. Maintains and updates comprehensive training resources and procedural documentation for staff and student staff. Reviews policies and procedures and recommends changes to the Head, Science and Engineering Library.
Supervises branch operations on weekends. Acts independently without direct supervision to oversee operations, and open and close the Science and Engineering Library according to established procedures to maintain an atmosphere that is safe, comfortable, and conducive to study and research. Coordinates with Day and Evening Supervisors to ensure that service is consistent and that staff members are updated about changes or problems. Responds to maintenance and other emergencies within the Library. Takes appropriate steps to correct the problem, safeguards the occupants and maintains services, and reports problems to the Head of Science and Engineering, Library Business Office, and Physical Plant Solution Center, as appropriate.
Provides tiered paraprofessional reference service in an integrated public services environment, responding to reference questions in person and electronically. Resolves complex problems by utilizing the Libraries' integrated library and discovery systems, electronic databases, physical resources, the Web, and subject guides to provide appropriate and complete responses to inquiries. Explains Library policies and procedures, informs patrons about library and campus services, and interprets records in discovery systems. Exercises considerable independent judgment in handling questions directly or referring them to librarians or other paraprofessional staff in accordance with established Library policies and procedures. Trains and oversees student staff in tiered reference support at the SEL Service Desk.
Oversees Service Desk in the absence of the Day and Evening Supervisors when on duty. Serves as a back-up supervisor for students who work at the Service Desk and in stacks maintenance of the Science and Engineering Library. Monitors student Kronos reports on a regular basis to make sure that student time is complete and accurate so that student assistants will be paid for time worked. Maintains current awareness of all routine Library operations.
Assists in organizing SEL events, exhibits, special events/programming, and other promotional activities.
Participates in the Libraries' assessment program by collecting, maintaining, and recording usage statistics for monthly reports as needed.
Works collaboratively and effectively in support of promoting teamwork, diversity, equality, and inclusiveness within the Libraries and the campus.
Serves on internal library committees as needed.
Attends professional development activities as assigned or required to meet organizational goals and objectives.
Performs related duties as assigned or required to meet Department, Libraries, and University goals and objectives.
Demonstrates, fosters and cultivates a positive, proactive internal and external customer service culture amongst staff and student staff.
Minimum Qualifications (Knowledge, Skills, Abilities, Education, Experience, Certifications, Licensure)
High school diploma or equivalent.
Two years' library experience, related to the requirements of this job.
One year experience supervising students, interns, or permanent staff members, involving training, oversight, and assignment of work in a fast-paced, technology-intensive service setting.
Experience working with technology in a public service environment.
Successful prior experience in a position requiring excellent interpersonal skills - tactfulness, empathy and resilience - to overcome obstacles and provide creative solutions.
- Works a regular schedule of 11am- 7 pm, Sunday, and 2 pm- 10 pm, Monday through Thursday during the academic year.
- Works Monday - Friday 9 AM - 5 PM during Summer and intersession
- Schedule varies between academic and non-academic year according to library operational hours, and may include weekend and holiday hours, as assigned.
Special Instructions to Applicants Along with the application, please submit a resume, cover letter, and contact informationof three (3) professional references UMass Amherst is committed to a policy of equal opportunity without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, age, sexual orientation, national origin, ancestry, disability, military status, or genetic information in employment, admission to and participation in academic programs, activities, and services, and the selection of vendors who provide services or products to the University. To fulfill that policy, UMass Amherst is further committed to a program of affirmative action to eliminate or mitigate artificial barriers and to increase opportunities for the recruitment and advancement of qualified minorities, women, persons with disabilities, and covered veterans. It is the policy of the UMass Amherst to comply with the applicable federal and state statutes, rules, and regulations concerning equal opportunity and affirmative action. |
UMass Amherst
October 24, 2023