Job: Executive Director

7.28.16 – Executive Director
National Library and Information System Authority (NALIS)
Port of Spain, Trinidad/Tobago

Sarah P’s comments:  A very rare public library position…

The Executive Director is responsible for the management of the strategic and operational activities of the National Library and Information System Authority (NALIS) Trinidad and Tobago, in accordance with governmental policies and strategic direction, determined by the Board of Directors.

The Executive Director is the liaison between the Board and management of the organisation, leading in the development and execution of NALIS’ goals and objectives.

REQUIREMENTS:

• Formulates and develops the organisational strategy (strategic planning, implementation, monitoring and evaluation)

• Monitors and implements the strategic imperatives of the organisation, proposing solutions for system wide matters needing attention

• Monitors all library services and participates in the development and implementation of professional standards across the NALIS network of Libraries

• Ensures adherence and compliance with all legislative requirements in the work environment.

• Provides information and advice to the line Minister and the Board on matters pertaining to the national library and information services and matters of literacy

• Leads and oversees the development and implementation of the organisation’s action plans in accordance with its strategy

• Ensures that the organisation’s Human Resource is managed according to approved policies and procedures and fully conforms to respective laws and regulations

• Ensures that the Financial Resources of the organisation are utilized in accordance with the required financial regulations and allocations

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, ABILITIES AND ATTITUDES

 EXTENSIVE KNOWLEDGE OF:

• Leadership and Management
• Corporate Governance
• Policy formulation and development
• Strategic Planning and Management

CONSIDERABLE KNOWLEDGE OF:

• Library development standards and quality assurance
• Information Communication Technologies and their applications in library networks
• Current library principles and practices, professional library policies, library rules and regulations

ABILITY TO:

• Lead and manage a diverse group of workers within the organisation
• Work effectively to prioritize and multitask within tight deadlines and respond to changing demands
• Work outside of normal working hours on a regular basis
• Establish positive working relationships with employees, other agencies and the general public locally, regionally and internationally

SKILLS IN:

• Leadership
• Decision making
• Strategic Thinking
• Presentation
• Problem-solving/ Analysis
• Negotiation
• Human Relations and Communication

PERSONAL CHARACTERISTICS

• Maintains high standards of ethics, honesty and integrity in personal and professional relationships
• Tact and Diplomacy
• Maintains poise and emotional stability in the full range of professional activities
• Responds well when faced with unexpected/disturbing situations
• Remains open to ideas, suggestions in the face of criticisms

ATTITUDES:

• Must be a transformational leader with strong strategic critical thinking skills, with the ability to transfer enthusiasm to forge a dynamic team
• Remains positive and focused with an emphasis on a can do, hands on approach and philosophy

QUALIFICATIONS, EXPERIENCE AND TRAINING:

Essential qualifications:

• Bachelor’s Degree in Library and Information Science or any other recognised qualification in Library and Information Science
• A minimum of five (5) years managerial experience in Library and Information services, including three (3) in a senior management position
• A Post Graduate qualification in management or a related field will be an asset

For consideration, a letter of application, curriculum vitae, together with names and addresses of two (2) references should be submitted by August 25, 2016 to:

Chairman, Board of NALIS

National Library and Information System Authority

National Library of Trinidad and Tobago, Hart and Abercromby Streets,

Port of Spain,

Republic of Trinidad and Tobago

ONLY SHORTLISTED APPLICANTS WILL BE ACKNOWLEDGED

Any qualification from a non-regional institution must be accompanied by certification from the Accreditation Council of Trinidad and Tobago (ACTT).

Conference: The ALA Library Conference at the Sharjah International Book Fair

7.27.16 –  The ALA Library Conference at the Sharjah International Book Fair
Sharjah, United Arab Emirates

(Taken from the American Libraries article by Patricia Wand, 7.14.16)

Plans are under way for the third American Library Association (ALA) Library Conference at the 35th Sharjah International Book Fair (SIBF), to be held November 8–10, 2016, at the Expo Center in Sharjah, United Arab Emirates. The conference will offer programs, in-depth preconference institutes, and a poster session on a wide range of topics for librarians from academic, public, school, government, and special libraries.

The roster of keynote speakers includes ALA President Julie B. Todaro, who will focus on “The Expert in the Library,” and Center for the Future of Libraries Director Miguel Figueroa, who will discuss societal trends and managing change in libraries.

But what happens when you transplant an ALA conference into an Arabic country? The answer: Conversations about reading, technology, children’s services, faculty research, user services, and library architecture become enriched by multinational perspectives. Diverse, lively exchanges are the best way to describe the ambiance of this event.

SIBF is emerging as the largest book fair in the Gulf. Sharjah Book Authority Chairman Ahmed Al Ameri is eager to provide professional development opportunities to library workers in the region and raise the visibility of libraries. He rightfully envisions the event as an innovative complement to the ever-growing book fair. “Our ongoing collaboration with ALA is helping us in our efforts to be an international leader among regional book fairs and allows us to promote our shared commitment to the love of the written word and its creation,” Al Ameri said in his welcome to conference attendees.

Registration is now open for the 2016 ALA Conference in Sharjah, and there is still time to submit a proposal for a poster session (the deadline is September 22). If you go, be sure to take advantage of the Librarians’ Lounge, a relaxing space to meet colleagues, hold small meetings, and take a break. ALA members will need their ALA ID numbers to register and get the member discount. If you are not an ALA member, email Delin Guerra at dguerra@ala.org to get a special number. Include your first name, last name, email address, and street address in the email.

Internship: Info Systems & Communication

7.26.16 – Information Systems & Communication Internship
ESCAP (Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific), United Nations, Bangkok, Thailand

Posting Period: 1 August 2016-31 January 2017
Job Opening number: 16-IST-ESCAP-62128-P-BANGKOK

To apply: A complete online application (Cover Note and Personal History Profile) is required. To complete an online application, please create and complete a personal history profile (PHP) and a cover letter in the UN e-Recruitment system (careers.un.org).

Please ensure that you indicate your proficiency in the English language in your PHP.

Please note that incomplete applications with not be reviewed.

The cover note should include

• Title of the degree currently being pursued by the applicant and the specific subjects taken;
• Expected graduation date from the degree programme that the applicant is enrolled in;
• List the IT skills and software programmes that you are proficient in;
• Explain how an internship with the Office of Information and Communications Technology in the United Nations fits within your career plans and why you would be the best candidate for this team.

Please note that due to high volume of applications received, ONLY successful candidates will be contacted.

In your Personal History Profile, be sure to include all past work experiences (if any), education, skills, languages and three references

Organizational Setting and Reporting

This internship is located with the Office of Information and Communications Technology (OICT), Department of Management (DM). The internship is UNPAID and full-time (five days per week for 35 hours), for a minimum duration of two (2) months and can be extended up to six (6) months. Interns will work under the supervision of a staff member in the department or office to which they are assigned.

Responsibilities

The intern will provide support to HR-IT Office of Information and Communication Technology’s strategic and/or operational programmes. Examples of duties to be performed may include the following

• Support towards the various stages of systems development using information technology project management methodology, to include for example design, development, installation, systems analysis, programming and operations support;
• Participate in training activities, including the preparation of training material and user documentation, and compilation of relevant information;
• Support towards strengthened business relationships to include coordination of responses to client requirements and the delivery of HR-IT Office of Information and Communication Technology services and solutions;
• Provide support towards ensuring adoption of HR-IT Office of Information and Communication Technology initiatives, to include the development of communications and marketing materials, using design, publishing and/or video production software;
• Attend and support the preparation of meetings, conferences, workshops and other events;
• Support the activities of HR-IT Office of Information and Communication Technology as needed as deemed necessary by their supervisor
• Modify and update manual of operations containing specific and relevant written procedures, policies and forms to meet quality standard requirements.
• Assist on the assignment to develop and maintain methodologies for project and resource reviews during projects or when they complete.
• Compile feedback on resource performance on a project and store for future reference.
• Additional activities that may be required to ensure the success of the work team.

NOTE: The intern will have an opportunity to gain practical knowledge and understanding in the project and resources planning, implementation, and operation of United Nations global support centre, and the application of the new United Nations Talent Management System built on a modern ERP platform (PeopleSoft).

Competencies

Communication

• Speaks and writes clearly and effectively
• Listens to others, correctly interprets messages from others and responds appropriately
• Asks questions to clarify, and exhibits interest in having two-way communication
• Tailors language, tone, style and format to match the audience
• Demonstrates openness in sharing information and keeping people informed

Teamwork

• Works collaboratively with colleagues to achieve organizational goals
• Solicits input by genuinely valuing others’ ideas and expertise; is willing to learn from others
• Places team agenda before personal agenda
• Supports and acts in accordance with final group decision, even when such decisions may not entirely reflect own position
• Shares credit for team accomplishments and accepts joint responsibility for team shortcomings

Technological Awareness: -Keeps abreast of available technology

• Understands applicability and limitations of technology to the work of the office
• Actively seeks to apply technology to appropriate tasks
• Shows willingness to learn new technology

Education

To qualify for an internship with the United Nations Internship Programme, the following conditions must be met

Applicants must meet one of the following requirements

• be enrolled in a graduate school programme (second university degree or equivalent, or higher);
• be enrolled in the final academic year of a first university degree programme (minimum Bachelor’s level or equivalent); or
• have graduated with a university degree (as defined above) and, if selected, must commence the internship within a one year period of graduation;
• Have a demonstrated keen interest in the work of the United Nations and have a personal commitment to the ideals of the Charter; and
• Have a demonstrated ability to successfully interact with individuals of different cultural backgrounds and beliefs, which include willingness to try and understand and be tolerant of differing opinions and views;
• Have demonstrated intention to study further or work in a field relevant to the work of Information and Communications Technology, Information Management, Project Management, Business Management, Marketing, Communications and/or Library Science;
• Be computer literate in standard software applications;
• Be familiar with cutting-edge technology and tools and/or have experience with social networking and collaboration platforms;

Work Experience

• Applicants are not required to have professional work experience for participation in the programme.

Languages

• English and French are the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat.
• For this position advertised, fluency in English (both oral and written) is required.
• Knowledge of another official UN language is an advantage.

Assessment

Applicants are encouraged to clearly indicate their areas of interests and highlight their specific skills and/or experience in their cover note. They are asked to do so carefully in order to enhance the value of the internship for both themselves and the receiving UN department.

Potential candidates may be contacted by the hiring manager for further consideration.

Job: Liaison Librarian

7.25.16 –  Liaison Librarian
Monash University, Selangor Darul Ehsan, Malaysia

Sarah P’s comments:   This is a repeat ad from April of this year. Monash U. is a branch of  this Australian University with eight campuses: six in Australia, one in Malaysia, one in South Africa, and a centre in Prato, Italy.  They appear to be growing and posted two positions in 2015 however I recommend reading the Glassdoor Reviews before deciding to apply.  Note the closing date of 8.15.16 which is is a short listing period.

 

Monash University is Australia’s largest university, with five local campuses throughout Victoria, as well as two international campuses – Malaysia and South Africa – and international centres in the People’s Republic of China, Italy and India. A unique alliance with the University of Warwick (UK) sits alongside an array of international collaborations with leading universities and corporations around the world, expanding the University’s global network.

Monash University Malaysia provides a distinctive international experience, with excellence in teaching and research. It engages with Malaysian and regional societies to improve the human condition. The campus is a dynamic community of scholars comprising staff and students, supported by collegial processes and comprehensive first-class infrastructure, and aspiring to intellectual achievement of the highest order. It continues to grow rapidly, and currently has more than 6,400 students and 770 staff.

Monash Malaysia is a registered private higher education institution in Malaysia. It employs all staff of the campus, and consequently line management is via the campus President and Pro Vice-Chancellor, who is also Chief Executive of the campus company.

For further information see: www.monash.edu.my.

The Opportunity

We are seeking an experienced candidate for the position of Liaison Librarian to join the Library and Learning Commons Unit. The successful applicant is responsible for providing a comprehensive information service, developing library collections to meet the needs of their assigned Schools and collaboratively developing and delivering embedded information literacy and learning skills programs and activities. Liaison librarians have subject responsibilities for a number of areas and this involves, among other duties, liaising and working with academic staff to maximise their engagement with the Library.

Your application must address the selection criteria. 

The Benefits

The appointment will be under Malaysian benefits, terms and conditions.

Position Description

 PD – Liaison Librarian

Enquiries and Applications

For general enquiries, please refer to FAQ.

To apply, send your Cover Letter and Resume to recruit@monash.edu

Closing Date:  August 15 2016

News: My Traveling Adventure…

7.23.16 –

Dear Readers,

For the next three week I will be posting only sporadically because I leave tomorrow to help setup a small school library in a new international school in North Africa.  I will be sharing the story as well as photos as I go however, as I will be working long hours plus dealing with possible connectivity issues, I will probably group my job posts.  Actually, this is a good time for me to go because summer is a quiet time in the international job arena.

So, while you might not yet find an interesting job post, maybe you will find encouragement in following this story…

Safe travels all, Sarah P.

Volunteer: Retired/Experience Librarians

7.23.16 –  Retired/Experienced Volunteer Librarians
International Professors Project, New York, USA (Virtual)

Sarah P’s comments: A chance to become involved with international work without leaving home and part-time as well for anyone who is working.

1. 3 Librarians needed to identify, organize and curate Open Educational Resources for an online global university currently being established for populations in developing countries. Experienced retired librarians are most welcome to apply. Please be available for 6-8 hours a week with a minimum 6 month commitment.

Our all volunteer group enjoys some Google backing.

2. 2 Librarians wanted for helping us design and develop a networked organization, beginning with integrating in house activities with our growing reliance upon social media activities to serve professors, students, university deopertments, NGO and nonprofit organizations, mainly within the developing world.

Retired librarians are warmly welcomed to share their expertise, imaginations and experience with our all volunteer-driven group,which sports some Google backing.

 

The International Professors Project ( IPP ) is a global network of professors assisting emerging nations, especially in higher education. We accomplish this as academic citizens of the world, on university campuses around the globe, and also remotely via email, Google+, Skype, LinkedIn, etc.

Academic professionals and students now are part of IPP’s development .

IPP is an innovation, inspired in large part by current trends towards globalization.It uses interconnections , conultations, promotions and recruiting to fulfill its mission.

We are a technologically-oriented, hybrid academic organization, working to meet the higher education faculty and libarian needs around the world. Google has for years been generous, with a grant, a gift, volunteers, and free tools.

Helping less developed countries improve domestic educational opportunities, especially by assisting professors, is how we spend much of our volunteer time.

Spreading partly by our dedicated networking diffusion, with each participating professors group, individual academic, and university department making its own cultural, social, ideological, and technological contributions.

International Professors was also founded to create and maintain a new institutional pathway towards an appropriate and ‘developing-world-sensitive’ internationalization of higher education.

We also work to engage and volunteer for universities and professors less attached to locale, such as transnational and expatriate professors, and those academics who identify themselves as international professors.

We serve developing world professors, students, NGOs and universities

The International Professors Project is a U.S. not-for-profit organization with 501(c)(3) tax-exempt status.

 

Job: Reference Librarian

7.22.16 –  Reference Librarian
Nazarbayev University Library, Astana, Kazakhstan

Sarah P’s comments:  As I commented in an earlier post NU is a fairly new university and I first saw an advert posted for librarians in 2011.  From what I hear the pay is low as compared to what faculty receive but it is an opportunity to gain international work experience helping to develop an academic library.

NU has now been around long enough to garner some reviews which I would definitely read before deciding to apply:
Academic Job in Kazakhstan?
Glassdoor Reviews
Pol Sci Rumors  (some comments are culturally insensitive)

 

Nazarbayev University is a new, research-driven institution located in
Astana, the exciting young capital of Kazakhstan. NU offers undergraduate,
Master’s, and Doctoral degrees in fields including Science and Technology,
Engineering, Business, Public Policy, Social Sciences and Humanities,
Medicine, and more. Nazarbayev University Library, currently one of the most
progressive and dynamic libraries in Kazakhstan, is looking for energetic,
creative, and service-oriented librarians to join our team. Apply now for the
chance to have the unforgettable experience of living and working in
fascinating Central Asia.

Key Responsibilities:
• Conduct reference interviews to provide targeted research advice and
resources;
• Assist and instruct patrons to locate and use library materials;
• Assist and instruct patrons in the use of electronic resources for research;
• Provide subject specialist expertise for patrons in an area of strength (e.g. chemistry);
• Develop training materials for reference;
• Develop and give seminars on database use, information literacy, and research;
• Organize events and exhibits to encourage patron use of reference services;
• Develop new methods of reference service using Western technology and library experience;
• Develop the collection in print and electronic formats;
• Research patron needs and analyze effectiveness of subject specific reference collections;
• Assist with other library work areas or committees as needed;
• Work at reference desk in accordance with library schedules (note that evening and weekend hours are included).
• Publications in local or international journals/conference proceedings
• Mentoring of local staff

Minimum Educational Requirements:

ALA-accredited Master’s Degree in Library and Information Science.

Desired Educational Background: We welcome applicants from a variety of
academic backgrounds; however, applicants with an undergraduate degree in the
Sciences or Engineering will be given preference.

Required professional experience: Relevant experience in a Western academic
library; instructional experience.

Required professional knowledge and personal qualities:
• Demonstrated expertise in using databases, electronic, and print resources;
• Excellent oral, written, and interpersonal communication skills;
• Effective instructional skills in group and individual settings;
• Strong planning, organization, and analytical skills;
• Teaching or supervisory experience;
• Ability to work flexibly in a team or independently;

Preferred:
• Experience with work, study, or instruction abroad.

Proficiency in languages: Excellent proficiency in English is required.
Knowledge of Kazakh, Russian, or other major languages is advantageous.

Computer skills:
• Advanced computer user in Windows, MS Office, and Internet;
• Experience using integrated library systems and library catalogues;
• Knowledge of electronic databases and advanced search techniques.

Application Deadline: Open until filled
Please send, in English, resume, cover letter, and contact information for three references to Library Director Aliya Sarsembinova (asarsembinova@nu.edu.kz)
Only candidates who have been selected for an interview will be contacted.

Job: Secondary Librarian

7.19.16 –  Secondary Librarian
Gyeonggi Suwon International School, Suwon, Korea

Sarah P’s comments: A late posting…this school is fairly young and has run into some financial trouble which has caused the reviews to slip.  However it can sometimes be advantageous to begin working at a school when it is rebounding.  A few questions and notes if you are interested in this position:  Please define ‘Christian worldview’?  Why is this position available now?  Will I receive IB Librarian training? Have you resolved your legal and financial issues?  Depending on the answers this position could be a chance to break-in to the international market offering a chance to gain IB experience in an interesting location.

Description
The Secondary Librarian models the attributes of a 21st century educator and creates thriving physical and virtual environments that connect learners to construct knowledge, collaborate and creatively solve problems. The librarian is an excellent communicator who instills enthusiasm in others by making them feel they are important members of a team. The librarian fosters an environment of creativity, innovation, and openness to new ideas, welcoming and encouraging input from others, while anticipating future obstacles and continually retooling to meet challenges. The librarian is an integral part of the learning process as an instructional partner through collaborating with teachers and IB coordinators.

Job Goals
● To ensure that students and staff are effective users of ideas and information
● To empower students to be critical thinkers, enthusiastic readers, skillful researchers, and ethical users of information
● To instill a love of learning and reading in all students through meaningful experiences
● To collaborate with teachers and IB coordinators to design and implement units of inquiry
● To provide the leadership and expertise necessary to ensure that the library program
supports the school’s mission, goals, and objectives

Roles and Responsibilities
As an Instructional Partner , the Secondary Librarian works with teachers and IB coordinators to build and strengthen connections between student information and research needs, curricular content, and information resources.

As an essential partner in the instructional process the MYP/DP librarian
● Collaborates with teachers and departments to provide instructional support for
course content, assignments, and research. This includes research skills,
information literacy skills, media literacy skills, technology skills, or other content as
agreed upon collaboratively with teachers.
● Contributes to MYP and DP planners for the units of inquiry that he or she
collaborates on with teachers
● Teaches classes on a flexible schedule in conjunction with subject area teachers.
● Develops information literacy tools and resources to assist students with the skills
necessary for inquiry and research in a 21st Century digital environment.
● Provides group and individual support for the MYP Personal Project and DP
Extended Essay.

Library Administration and Management
● Maintain and monitor budget expenditures according to school policies and procedures to ensure availability of resources and proper use of funds.
● Maintain and ensure timely technical support for software, systems, peripherals, and
database services. (Example: Follett Destiny, Accelerated Reader, EBSCO)
● Select relevant and high quality resources which meet the reading and information needs of students and faculty. Use appropriate library standards and justifications
when removing resources from the collection.
● Develop policies and procedures for all aspects of the library. (Examples: weeding
the collection, requesting additional titles, circulation, requests to remove a title due
to inappropriate content, etc.)
● Organize library and textbook materials, equipment, and facilities for effective and
efficient circulation and use.
● Ensure cataloging standards are maintained when adding resources to the
library/textbook catalog using either copy cataloging or original MARC cataloging.
● Conduct annual inventories of library collection, textbook materials, and equipment
to ensure accurate recordkeeping and documentation of lost and/or damaged materials
● Prepare reports relative to the operation of the media center to disseminate
information to appropriate parties. (Examples: circulation and patron statistics, etc.)

Library Supervision
● Provide an environment that is conducive to collaborative learning.
● Oversee and assign tasks to additional support staff, student helpers and/or volunteers
● Maintain a library schedule that provides students with optimum usage of space and resources

General
● Promotes the library as more than a physical and virtual repository of information by
creating a learning commons with an integrated media program where collaboration,
research, creation, problem solving and innovation occur.
● Create an atmosphere and climate that stimulates a love of learning and reading.
● Contributes to the development of information literacy and media literacy skills
across the curriculum.
● Builds the capacity of teachers and students to effectively implement aninquirybased,
student centered learning environment.

Professional Development
The Secondary Librarian attends the secondary division PD on Monday afternoons. He or she also meets with department teams and grade level teams on a regular basis.

Virtual Job: IFLA Series Editor (part-time)

7.15.16 –  IFLA Series Editor
IFLA & De Gruyter, worldwide

IFLA and De Gruyter are seeking Expressions of Interest for the position of Series Editor for the IFLA Publication Series (often known as the ‘Green Backs’).

The book series addresses ways in which libraries, information centres, and information professionals worldwide can formulate their goals, exert their influence as a group, protect their interests, and find solutions to global problems.

The Series Editor is responsible for identifying topics and issues of significance to the profession and for the commissioning of editors and authors to produce works for publication by De Gruyter, IFLA’s publishing partner.

IFLA aims to publish a minimum of three titles per year. This is a part-time position and De Gruyter provides a small stipendium.

De Gruyter will also appoint a copy editor to copy-edit, submit the manuscripts to the Publisher and accompany the production process.

Tasks

• Identify topics of interest to the library profession
• Work with Chairs of IFLA Section Committees to select suitable Editors from IFLA’s member expertise
• Oversee the production process from commissioning to publication
• Assist Editors with the operational aspects of commissioning, applications, forms, organisation and deadlines
• Provide advice to Editors and Authors to ensure consistent presentation in areas such as style guidelines, syntax, terminology, referencing and quality of graphics
• Liaise with De Gruyter’s copy editor regarding the typesetting and final formatting of works in the series

Skills

• Communication skills
  • Possess excellent interpersonal and responsive, accurate written communication skills. As the series is primarily published in English, a native level of English is preferred;
• Understanding of issues
  • Excellent understanding of the major issues and hot topics influencing library services and practice in the global environment;
• High Standing
  • High standing in the Library and Information Science field as a practitioner or researcher;
• Research and Writing Skills
  • Excellent research and professional writing skills and expertise, and the ability to critique research writing;
• Scholarly Publishing
  • Strong understanding of scholarly publishing;
• Vision for Future
  • Vision for the future of the series and to increase its standing in the field;
• Experience
  • Experience as a published editor or author in the Library and Information Science field.

An Expression of Interest presenting your experience and addressing each of the areas outlined under the heading Skills should be sent by 5 August 2016 to Claudia Heyer, email: claudia.heyer@degruyter.com

Job: Foreign Service Information Management Specialist

7/14/16 –  Foreign Service Information Management Specialist
US Foreign Service, Worldwide

Sarah P’s comments:  For US librarians with IT skills and/or a degree this position could be a good entrance into the foreign service.  Librarians are generally hired as Information Resource Officers but there are only about 30 of those positions worldwide whereas there are IT management positions everywhere thus both the chance of being hired and the upward mobility is better.  (For example, this position was last posted in 2015 whereas the Info Resource Officer was last posted in 2012).  For more information see Chapter 6 in my book and/or the Book Resources section of the blog.

Announcement No: IMS-2016-0003
Position Title: Foreign Service Information Management Specialist
Open Period: July 13 2016 – July 26, 2016
Series/Grade: FP – 2210 – 05
Salary: $44,250 – $64,983
Promotion Potential: FP-MC
Duty Locations: Many vacancies throughout the world, Washington, D.C.
For More Info: IMSVacancyInfo@state.gov

Who May Apply

Must be a U.S. citizen. Potential applicants should read the entire announcement to ensure that they meet all of the requirements and understand a Foreign Service career.Applicants may not reapply for one year after the previous application for the same position.

Job Summary

The U.S. Department of State, our country’s lead foreign policy agency, provides a rich international experience whether at home or abroad, and opportunities to become responsible leaders.

Each day, our employees make a difference as they contribute to our global society and defend and advance our country’s interests and values. They work on the business of diplomacy and high priority issues that impact the safety, security, and prosperity of our world – human rights, environment, energy, food security, public health, and technology – all while experiencing a unique career.

Our talented workforce reflects and champions all of our strengths and diversity – personal, professional, and educational. We offer a workplace that values and rewards leadership, collaboration and innovation, and personal and professional development.

Foreign Service Information Management Specialists (IMS) are responsible for the Department’s Information Resource Management programs and information technology (IT) systems world-wide.

To find out more specifics about the qualifications required for an IMS, please click here for the IMS Career Track Quiz: http://careers.state.gov/work/foreign-service/specialist/career-track-quiz/ims. The Department of State is developing a rank-order list of eligible hires for a limited number of FSS vacancies based on the needs of the Department. To learn more about the Department of State and a career as an FSS, please visit us at http://careers.state.gov/work/foreign-service/specialist/career-tracks.

Key Requirements

• Be a U.S. citizen and available for worldwide service.
• Be able to obtain a Top Secret Security Clearance.
• Be able to obtain an appropriate Foreign Service Medical Clearance.
• Be able to obtain a favorable Suitability Review Panel determination.*
• Be at least 20 years old and at least 21 years old to be appointed.
• Be appointed prior to age 60 (preference eligible veterans excepted).**

Travel Required

Occasional Travel

An FSS generally spends the majority of his/her career assigned to our overseas missions and at times, lives away from family and/or in difficult or isolated conditions. Selected applicants will be notified of an Oral Assessment (OA) requirement in Washington D.C. For the selected applicants, all travel and other expenses incurred in connection with the OA are the sole responsibility of the applicant.

Duties

The duties of IMS vary according to the size of the post and the requirements of the specific diplomatic mission. At various times, at posts around the world or in domestic locations, the following are some examples of the types of duties and responsibilities an IMS is expected to perform:

• Provide assistance to users of information management services (for example, by configuring and optimizing software).
• Train users in the use of new software applications, providing guidance and assistance with new or amended IT-related policies and procedures.
• Advise post staff on the use of social media technologies for mission outreach activities.
• Set up, administer, and support software and hardware digital conferencing systems.
• Manage Department of State knowledge bases.
• Promote end-user involvement in technology and technical decision-making.
• Promote the use of emerging technologies, and improve and support connectivity with U.S. government foreign affairs partner agencies.
• Install, operate, and maintain new hardware and software applications.
• Ensure that IT operations comply with Department of State and federal government operating and security policies and practices, and ensure that applicable management controls are implemented.
• Administer, operate, and troubleshoot classified and unclassified telecommunications network equipment, including but not limited to, cryptographic equipment, multiplexers, modems, routers, switches, and satellite equipment.
• Administer secure and non-secure telephone and wireless programs at embassies and consulates by installing new equipment, as well as maintaining and repairing existing equipment.
• Install, test, maintain, and deploy various wireless and satellite emergency communications systems.
• Administer classified and unclassified Diplomatic Pouch and Mail programs at overseas locations by providing appropriate supervision, reporting and oversight.
• Monitor and implement security and management controls on Department of State automated information systems.
• Support operations in the area of cyber security, contingency planning, disaster recovery, general security operations, and risk management.
• Supervise teams of foreign national systems administrators, mailroom employees, telephone technicians, radio technicians, or switchboard operators.
• Serve as part of the embassy or consulate management team.
• Perform additional duties outside normal information resource management activities as determined by embassy or consulate management or as dictated by specific circumstances.

Some of the essential functions of the job have a physically demanding component. In the execution of the duties and tasks listed above, Information Management Specialists are required to:

• Work in confined areas such as crawlspaces, attics, communication closets, and other confined spaces.
• Work from heights to include rooftops, scaffolding, and climb extension ladders.
• Move, handle, and lift heavy objects. For example: move desks to troubleshoot computer issues, move computers with or without carts, and move other equipment and tools.

We are currently accepting applications for this position.

Apply now at USAJOBS.