Librarian (Reference)

Basic Qualification Requirements: All librarians must meet the requirements for professional education in library science or possess equivalent experience and education. A. Completion of 1 full academic year of graduate study in library science in an accredited college or university, in addition to completion of all work required for a bachelor’s degree. OR B. A total of at least 5 years of a combination of college-level education, training, and experience. To qualify on this basis, the applicant must establish conclusively that the education, training, and experience provided a knowledge and understanding of the theories, principles, and techniques of professional librarianship; a knowledge of literature resources; and the knowledge and abilities essential for providing effective library and information services. In addition to meeting the basic requirement above, to qualify for this position you must also meet the specialized experience and/or education requirements listed below: GS-11 Experience: You qualify for this position if you have one year of specialized experience equivalent to at least the GS-09 level in the Federal Service. For this position Specialized experience is defined as providing research and reference assistance, performing collection development and outreach activities, and performing library research instruction, as the designated subject matter expert in one or more of the disciplines represented by NMNH departments (i.e. Anthropology, Botany, Entomology, Invertebrate and Vertebrate Zoology, Mineral or Earth Sciences, or Paleobiology / Paleontology). OR 3 full years of progressively higher-level graduate education in library science or doctoral degree (Ph.D. or equivalent) related to the position. You must submit a legible copy of your college/university transcripts to your online application. Unofficial transcripts are acceptable at the time of application. Official transcripts will be required if selected. Failure to submit the required legible documentation at the time of application will result in disqualification of your application. Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religious; spiritual; community, student, social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience. Part-time and/or unpaid experience related to this position will be considered to determine the total number of years and months of experience. Be sure to note the number of paid or unpaid hours worked each week. Or a Combination: Education and experience may be combined to meet the basic qualifications. For a full explanation of this option please see the Qualification Standards. Special Instructions for Foreign Education: If you are qualifying by education and/or you have education completed in a foreign college/university described above, it is your responsibility to provide transcripts and proof of U.S. accreditation for foreign study. For instructions on where to fax these documents, see the “Required Documents” section of this announcement.
The Smithsonian Institution (SI) is the world’s largest museum, education, and research complex, with 21 museums and the National Zoo. This position is in the Smithsonian Libraries and Archives (SLA), National Museum of Natural History (NMNH). SLA provides authoritative information and innovative services for Smithsonian researchers and curators, as well as scholars and the public worldwide.