This is a NON-CLASSIFIED employment opportunity. Visit the State of Colorado for Classified employment opportunities.
The Reference and Research Specialist will assist with the development, implementation and evaluation of Library Services at Pikes Peak State College that are designed to support the academic success our students. The Reference and Research Specialist will be responsible for delivering reference, research, and general library services across multiple campuses at the direction of Lead Reference and Research Librarian. This position will also support divisional and institutional leadership by working collaboratively to administer and develop library services within the context of the Learning Commons framework and collections development in print and non-print areas under the supervision and direction of the Lead Reference and Research Librarian. This position also works collaboratively with Learning Commons staff, Tutors, Coaches, and other divisional partners to support student success.
Reports To: Lead Reference and Research Librarian
Minimum Qualifications
- Completed Masters Degree from a regionally accredited institution in a research-based program such as History, Political Science, Psychology, or closely related field.
- One year of professional level experience working in a higher education setting.
Professional level experience is defined by the Colorado Division of Human Resources: A position that involves the exercise of discretion, analytical skill, judgment, personal accountability, and responsibility for creating, developing, integrating, applying, or sharing an organized body of knowledge. Colorado revised statute (C.R.S. 24-50-135(1) allows colleges to exempt positions from the State Personnel Classified System that are determined to be professional level work.
Preferred Qualifications
- Completed Master's degree in Library Science or Media Technology or Information Science from an ALA accredited institution.
- Three or more years of professional level experience working directly with community college students.
- Demonstrated experience in public speaking, teaching, facilitating workshops, or small group facilitation.
For full consideration, all application materials must be received by 4:00 p.m. on June 14, 2024. Applications accepted until position is filled.
Must be a State of Colorado resident or able to relocate to Colorado prior to first date of employment.
Visa support is not available for this position.
Application Instructions: Application must be submitted online. Incomplete applications may not receive full consideration. A complete application will include:
- Cover letter - Address the minimum and preferred qualifications in the order listed on the job announcement.
- Resume - Reflect experience, education, knowledge, skills, and abilities.
- Unofficial Transcripts - Unofficial transcripts for all degrees conferred. Official transcripts are required if hired for the position.
- Professional References - Provide names and contact information for three recent professional references who can address your expertise and background for this position.
This position may be eligible for a variety of employee benefits. Pikes Peak State College participates in the Colorado Public Employees' Retirement Association (PERA) contribution rates.
Note: Prior submission of application materials will not be considered.
Essential Functions
Reference and Research Responsibilities
- In coordination with the Learning Commons team and under direction of the Lead Reference and Research Librarian, provide general library, reference, and research services at all campuses.
- Support student learning and engagement through reference and reserve collections, instructional databases, and the archives.
- Work collaboratively with the Learning Commons team to develop and maintain policies and procedures to govern the activities within the Learning Commons spaces at each campus.
- Maintain active cooperation with Colorado Community College System (CCCS), local, regional, and national library networks.
- Develop and maintain effective relationships with faculty, staff, and students.
- Serve as a member of appropriate committees at the college and within the System.
- Ensure that equitable practices are being developed and implemented that serve to increase student belonging and support the success of underserved populations at Pike Peak State College.
- Under the direction of the Lead Reference and Research Librarian collaborate with campus stakeholders in completing assessments and reports that align with library services.
Subject Matter Specialist
- Keep current on library databases and all other library-related information.
- Evaluate and recommend sites, updates, and improvements to library information links.
- Provide expertise on and work with Information Technology Support Services on keeping library sites current and effective.
- Provide consultant services to local school districts and other libraries upon request.
- Ensure that bibliographic instruction is effective and available to faculty and students.
Department Support
- Support additional Learning Commons and Library Related functions, programs, and events
- Help to market the services and programs within the Learning Commons
General Duties, Skills, Knowledge, and Abilities
- Cultural competence and demonstrated evidence, understanding, and commitment to the concepts of diversity, multiculturalism, and their application in the workplace.
- Ability to manage program caseload with minimal supervision.
- Ability to prepare reports regarding work and impact.
- Utilize a case management model to provide assistance needed for students to complete academic goals at PPSC.
- Knowledge of and ability to make proper referrals to students for college programming and support services.
- Guide students to become their own advocates in achieving educational goals by referring them to institutional Student Success resources.
- Coach students on academic success strategies.
- Ability to lead a team collaboratively.
- Apply strong interpersonal, oral, and written communication skills with students, staff, faculty, and community members.
- Understand and display the concepts of diversity and multiculturalism and their application in the workplace.
- Work collaboratively and efficiently with offices across campuses.
- Employ successful organizational skills and work under deadlines to achieve strategic goals.
As part of the State of Colorado, PPSC offers a competitive benefits package:
This job description reflects Pikes Peak State College’s best effort to describe the essential duties and qualifications of the job. It is not an exhaustive statement of all the duties, responsibilities or qualifications of the job. This document is not intended to exclude an opportunity for modifications consistent with providing reasonable accommodation.
EEO Statement: Pikes Peak State College is an Equal Employment Opportunity/Americans with Disabilities Act institution. We value diversity, strive for a more unified campus where all people are valued, treated fairly, and possess a sense of belonging. Pikes Peak State College encourages minorities, women, veterans and persons with disabilities to apply.
