Job: Reference & Instruction Librarian

8.17.17 – Reference & Instruction Librarian (Outreach Focus)
Library and Learning Commons, Zayed University, Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Sarah P’s comments: A follower and librarian at Zayed wrote to tell me this position is open. It was last listed in 2016 however now the title ‘Outreach Focus’ has been added so it might be a new position. Zayed University has been considered one of the better colleges to work for in the UAE however in recent years their reputation has slipped a bit. They have always had sporadic hiring practices; interviewing then no communication, it appearing that a job is likely and then no contract, etc.

Dubai is a new, crazy city with lots of traffic but it is interesting and the Emirates remain a safe to live.  Be prepared for more expats than Arab nationals and watch the low oil prices because this is affecting the economy.

Job:

4.18.17 –  Librarian for Geospatial Services
NYU, Abu Dhabi, UAE

NYU Abu Dhabi (NYUAD) invites applications for a Librarian for Geospatial Services to work in an innovative and forward-looking setting. The successful candidate provides expertise and leadership to create a program of specialized research assistance for the current and evolving geospatial research needs at NYUAD. This person will be instrumental in planning and developing library services related to locating, acquiring, managing and analyzing geospatial data across disciplines. The position involves significant collaborative work with library colleagues at NYUAD and NYU in New York, as well as with faculty and students, and therefore requires excellent communication skills and the ability to foster successful working relationships both on site and remotely. The position contributes to the provision of information and research assistance to the gifted faculty, post-doctoral researchers, visiting scholars and student body of NYU Abu Dhabi, often called the “world’s honors college.”

As part of a highly collaborative team, this position plays a key role in the educational mission of NYUAD by establishing strong relationships with faculty and students, and connecting them to the resources, technologies and tools that meet their research, teaching and learning needs. This position works in the Library’s Center for Digital Scholarship (CDS) and will be an integral member of the CDS team  in developing programming and outreach initiatives across campus as they relate to digital scholarship, geospatial analysis, data services and more. Reporting to the Head of the CDS, this position may also partner on long-term research projects, collaborating with colleagues within the library and across the university, including those in archives and special collections, digital humanities and social sciences.

A commitment to outreach and service to researchers will be essential to this work. The incumbent will be expected to teach workshops on geospatial data topics, including data access and data literacy, as well as on specific programs such as ArcGIS, Carto, QGIS and other tools. This person will work in collaboration with liaison librarians on subject specific geospatial queries, including citation methods and visualization tools. He/she will provide course-integrated instruction upon request in assigned liaison areas and other areas making use of geospatial resources. This person will facilitate access to NYU’s Spatial Data Repository and guide patrons in its use. The incumbent will also be responsible for developing an approach to locating regional data resources and establishing protocols for their translation from English into Arabic. Some facility in working with quantitative data and statistical analysis may also be a requirement of the incumbent. Depending on the incumbent’s academic background, liaison responsibilities with academic departments and service at the library’s reference desk may be assigned.

Initial appointment will be for 3-4 years and is renewable contingent on job performance. Rank depends on professional background and experience. Renewal and promotion require excellent job performance and active professional engagement.

Requirements:
•    ALA-accredited MLS or international equivalent
•    Relevant experience in a research library
•    High degree of facility with technologies and systems germane to the 21st century library
•    Demonstrated proficiency in the use and application of geospatial tools such as ArcGIS, Carto, QGIS and other related software packages.
•    Knowledge of trends in data management, data cleaning, data description and geospatial metadata
•    Programming or scripting experience for geospatial applications
•    Familiarity with data visualization techniques and tools
•    Knowledge of public and proprietary resources for national and international numeric and geospatial data
•    Ability to develop and deliver formal instruction, workshops and one-on-one consultation sessions as they apply to data literacy
•    Strong analytical and problem solving skills
•    Excellent English language communication skills
•    Ability to establish positive long-distance working relationships with NYU Libraries in New York and to work collegially within a highly collaborative local unit
•    Demonstrated history of flexibility, creativity and strong user service commitment

Preferred Attributes:
•    Academic background in Geography, GIS, or a related field resulting in an advanced degree
•    Ability to work with programming languages such as Python, R and Julia
•    Demonstrated effectiveness in library instruction
•    Experience working in a culturally diverse environment
•    Prior international experience
•    Competence in a language other than English, preferably Arabic

Applications will be accepted beginning May 1, 2017. To be considered, all applicants need to submit a cover letter and curriculum vitae in PDF format. For instructions and information on how to apply, visit our website at http://nyuad.nyu.edu/en/about/careers/faculty-positions.html. If you have any further questions about the position or NYUAD, please email NYUAD.Academic.HR.Affairs@nyu.edu.

About NYUAD:
New York University has established itself as a Global Network University, a multi-site, organically connected network encompassing key global cities and idea capitals.  The network has three foundational degree-granting campuses: New York, Abu Dhabi, and Shanghai, complemented by a network of eleven research and study-away sites across five continents.  Faculty and students circulate within this global network in pursuit of common research interests and the promotion of cross-cultural and interdisciplinary solutions for problems both local and global.

Entering its seventh year, NYU Abu Dhabi has recruited a cohort of faculty who are distinguished in their research and teaching.  NYU Abu Dhabi’s highly selective liberal arts college is complemented by an institute for advanced research, sponsoring cutting-edge projects across the Arts, Humanities, Social Sciences, Sciences, and Engineering.  The Engineering Division also takes pride in a thriving doctoral program, as well as in the postdoctoral researchers who have chosen to make NYUAD their research home. – See more at: https://chroniclevitae.com/jobs/0000365435-01#sthash.5gkcAXBT.dpuf

Job: Acquisitions & Resource Management Librarian

10.16.16 – Acquisitions & Resource Management Librarian
American University of Sharjah, United Arab Emirates

Sarah P’s comments: This position was posted last February and before that in November of 2015 on IFLAjobs. I would assume they did not fill it due to a lack of qualified candidates but, if so, the position has been vacant for almost as year??? Of the various UAE universities and colleges, AUS is considered near the top of the list of reputable institutions. Positions appear periodically but I have heard they suffer from the same convoluted hiring practices which exist in the rest of the region. For those unfamiliar with the Middle East, the UAE is a safe and progressive country and Sharjah is basically an overgrown suburb of the Dubai. Traffic is horrendous but it’s an interesting place if you are into city life.

Position Summary:

 The AUS Library is seeking an energetic and knowledgeable Acquisitions and Resource Management Librarian to join its service-oriented team. Reporting to the AUL for Technology and Technical Services, the successful candidate will work closely with library colleagues to provide an integrated approach to the acquisition and management of the library’s electronic, print and media resources.

Job Responsibilities:

  • Acquisitions, licensing, implementation, assessment and ongoing maintenance of the library print and electronic collections
  • Coordinating with the Cataloging and Metadata Librarian to arrange description and control of resources in the library’s WMS system
  • Troubleshooting problems arising from ordering, subscription, licensing or access-related technical issues including linking and discovery
  • Collecting and analyzing collection usage statistics
  • Document delivery

Required Qualifications:

  • An ALA-accredited MLS degree
  • Minimum of 3 years’ experience
  • Knowledge of web-based applications and environment
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
  • Superior technology skills with openness to emerging technologies
  • Excellent oral, written and interpersonal communication skills
  • The ability to initiate and complete projects in a timely and independent manner

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Familiarity with standards such as EDI/EDIFACT, OpenURL, COUNTER, SUSHI
  • Knowledge of metadata standards and formats including MARC, KBART, Dublin Core, AACR2, RDA, LCSH
  • 2 years’ experience in print or electronic resource management, commercial knowledge-bases  or digital serials management
  • Experience working in a university or research environment
  • Experience with OCLC WMS or other library services platform
  • Working knowledge of _javascript_, XML, HTML, CSS and web development tools

Salary and Benefits

The salary is commensurate with qualifications and experience.  Free furnished accommodation and utilities are provided along with over six weeks’ annual vacation. A self-directed benefit plan provides a variety of choices including annual air tickets to place of origin for self and family, healthcare and dependent educational allowance. The UAE levies no income tax; however, some U.S. Federal taxes may apply to U.S. citizens and resident aliens.

Background

The American University of Sharjah is located in the United Arab Emirates and is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education. Established in 1997, the university consists of four Schools and Colleges: Architecture, Art and Design, Business Administration, Engineering, and Arts and Sciences and offers undergraduate and graduate degrees to over 5000 students from 80 different countries. The language of instruction and the workplace is English, and knowledge of Arabic is not required. The UAE offers a high standard of living with abundant cultural, recreational and travel opportunities. The UAE is a safe, open and friendly environment for individuals and families of all cultures.

The AUS Library, in a beautiful state-of-the-art facility, serves as a focal point for educational and social interactions on campus. The library features a large Information Commons (135 workstations), 20 group study rooms, 2 computer classrooms, and RFID system. Please see http://library.aus.edu.

Please e-mail a cover letter, résumé and the names of three professional references to recruitment@aus.edu.  Only short-listed candidates will be contactedReview of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled.

Job: School Librarian (2)

9.15.16 – Two positions: Elementary & Secondary Librarian
American Community School, Abu Dhabi, UAE

Sarah P’s comments: It’s September and here are the first of the season’s school positions for next year (2017-2018).  If you are interested in pursuing a position as an international school librarian now is the time to polish your resume and submit paperwork to a recruiting agency.  In order to apply for these positions you will need to join The International Educator (where these are listed) and/or an agency as well.  I always recommend joining International School Reviews as well, an invaluable source of inside information about various international schools.  For more on the hiring process of international school librarians please read Chapter 3 of my book and/or visit the Chapter 3 Resources listed.

About this school: ACS is a well-established top-tier school however has recently gone through some changes which have been discussed in the ISR reviews. Abu Dhabi is a safe, modern city but housing is an issue because the school is located on the bottom of the island near the Corniche where things are both crowded and expensive. Interesting that both positions are open and this early. I would ask about why that is so if interviewed.

Description:  PreK-12 co-ed day school serving over 60 nationalities in the residential area of Abu Dhabi.

Age Limit:  65

Other:  Please see the following web sites for openings: http://www.tieonline.com; http://www.iss.edu; http://www.acs.sch.ae

Salary:  The Director of HR will provide salary information.

Benefits:  round trip transportation, housing, professional development, health, dental and disability insurance, annual home leave, end of service bonus, shipping.

Qualifications:  A Masters degree with minimum of 4 years experience as a librarian.

Additional materials: Letter of application, resume and contact information for references

Interviews: Interviews will be held via email and Skype

Application Deadline:  Please send the required materials by October 1

Other:  Please visit our website http://www.acs.sch.ae to learn more about our learning community

 

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.

Job: Academic Librarian for Research and Instruction for the Social Sciences

6.15.16 – Academic Librarian for Research and Instruction for the Social Sciences
NYU Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates

Sarah P’s comments: I was asked if I could post this position, asked for some more info, and received the following: “no dates for interviews as of yet. Given the nature of jobs outside of the US and visa process, we would ideally like someone to start by Spring semester 2016.”

Note: you should be aware that when I spoke with NYU at an ALA conference several years ago they shared that faculty hired for overseas campuses are not considered regular faculty and thus cannot transfer campuses.  Please check whether this policy has changed.

Wikipedia article
NYU Abu Dhabi: Working Abroad in the Middle East, Chronicle of Higher Education Forum
Glassdoor reviews

The NYU Abu Dhabi Library invites applications for a Research and Instruction Librarian for the Social Sciences to work in a highly collaborative, innovative, and forward-looking setting. Reporting to the Director of Libraries at NYUAD, the position plays a key role in the educational mission of NYU Abu Dhabi by providing dynamic and enthusiastic service to students and faculty with a special focus on research in the social sciences. The role involves reference, teaching, collection development, and research assistance to gifted and diverse students and faculty. Program development and participation in tiered information literacy programs are expectations.
The librarian will serve as a resource for students and faculty working with data sources and software common to social sciences research, and as a partner with the other liaison librarians and related University departments. The incumbent will develop creative strategies to understand the information needs of assigned departments and programs, build partnerships with faculty, and actively engage in outreach to sustain strong, consistent, and effective communications between the Library, the assigned departments, and affiliated programs. He or she will develop and maintain subject-related collections to support the teaching, learning, and research needs of students and faculty. Collaborative work with colleagues at NYU New York, NYU Shanghai, and across NYU’s global network is an important job expectation. Academic Librarians engage in community and professional service and pursue and active scholarly agenda including publication, and research.
Initial appointment will be for 2-4 years and is renewable contingent on job performance. Rank depends on professional background and experience.
Required Qualifications:
• ALA-accredited MLS or international equivalent graduate LIS degree
• Academic background in the social sciences
• Experience with quantitative analysis and its tools, particularly Stata
• Demonstrated analytical skills
• Excellent oral and written communication skills.
• Demonstrated aptitude and enthusiasm for instruction and outreach
• Demonstrated aptitude for teamwork, flexible accommodation of a changing environment, and history of collegiality
Preferred Qualifications:
• Advanced degree in the social sciences
• Demonstrated knowledge of or direct experience working with managing research data.
• Experience working in a research library
• Experience working in a culturally diverse environment
• Prior international experience
Renewal and promotion require excellent job performance and active professional engagement. Applications will be accepted immediately. To be considered, all applicants need to submit a cover letter and curriculum vitae in PDF format. For instructions and information on how to apply, visit our website at http://nyuad.nyu.edu/en/about/careers/faculty-positions.html. If you have any further questions about the position or NYUAD, please email NYUAD.Academic.HR.Affairs@nyu.edu.
About NYUAD: New York University has established itself as a Global Network University, a multi-site, organically connected network encompassing key global cities and idea capitals. The network has three foundational degree-granting campuses: New York, Abu Dhabi, and Shanghai, complemented by a network of over eleven research and study-away sites across five continents. Faculty and students will circulate within this global network in pursuit of common research interests and the promotion of cross-cultural and interdisciplinary solutions for problems, both local and global.
Entering its seventh year, NYU Abu Dhabi has recruited a cohort of faculty who are at once distinguished in their research and teaching. Our students are drawn from around the world and surpass all traditional recruitment benchmarks, both US and global. NYU Abu Dhabi’s highly selective liberal arts enterprise is complemented by an institute for advanced research, sponsoring cutting-edge projects across the Arts, Humanities, Social Sciences, Sciences, and Engineering.

Job: Elementary School Librarian

4.28.16 –  Elementary Librarian
American School of Dubai, United Arab Emirates (UAE)

Sarah P’s comments: A late opening from one of the top schools in the Middle East. ASD has been around for years and has become as large school with a hectic work pace in a city with crazy traffic. However, it is still a good place to work and, if you like city, life, Dubai is a crazy, vibrant place where something is always happening.

Apply by June 1, 2016

Start date July 31, 2016

Primary Responsibilities:
• Plan and prepare throughout the year for effective instruction within the classroom
• Provide a classroom environment that is conducive to learning
• Effective delivery of the curriculum
• Effectively manage each group of students while providing for a variety of learning styles, ability
levels, and educational backgrounds
• Maintain rigorous and appropriate learning expectations of all students at all times
• Monitor student learning and make appropriate modifications of goals and strategies to meet students’ needs
• Maintain accurate up-to-date records of student progress and attendance
• Engage parents and students in the learning process through frequent and meaningful
communications about student progress
• Be available to parents and students outside of school hours
• Engage in department/team planning, curriculum review, budgeting and other activities
• Interact cooperatively with colleagues in the development of cohesive curriculum materials and the establishment of instructional goals
• Co-operate with and participate in the planning and evaluation of the school program
• Keep current in education through coursework, in-service programs, and by attending professional meetings and conferences
• Remain proficient in school related technologies, Employ technology (computer, video, internet, etc. as appropriate to enhance instruction
• Engage with students in meaningful activities beyond the classroom which extend learning experiences for students (coaching, organizing field trips, sponsorship of clubs, events, community service projects, etc.)

Other
• Engage with the administration in a committed effort to improve one’s own instructional skills
• Openly support and abide by all school policies and procedures
• Model the ‘Core Values’ in interactions with the school community
• Liaise with the Principal, taking on tasks as assigned, including all school goals

Personal
• Demonstrate commitment to personal continuous professional growth and development
• Develop and maintain effective working relationships
• Represent ASD with students, parents, colleagues, and broader school community in a professional manner
• Exhibit a professional attitude toward criticism
• Recognize and strengthen personal performance through self analysis of actions, participating inprofessional development activities, exploring educational research,  participating in professional
organizations, and through formal renewal programs

Job Skills and Requirements
• Master’s degree with a valid teaching certificate/license in content area and/or for the position you are applying
• A minimum of two years, current, full time teaching experience in the position you are applying for
• Teaching experience in a North American educational environment
• Experience with current best practices, current teaching materials, and current instructional strategies as well as recent professional growth activities
• Focused instruction and assessment on student learning
• Models ASD Core Values (Excellence, Respect, Integrity, Compassion, Responsibility

Job: Information Technology Librarian

4.7.16 –  Information Technology Librarian
Library and Learning Commons, Zayed University, Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Sarah P’s comments: Zayed has been considered one of the better colleges to work for in the UAE however in recent years their reputation has slipped.  They have always had sporadic hiring practices; interviewing then no communication, it appearing that a job is likely and then no contract, etc.  This position was advertised in  9/15 so I am not sure whether it was never filled or if someone has left.

Dubai is a new, crazy city with lots of traffic but it is interesting and the Emirates remain a safe to live.  Be prepared for more expats than Arab nationals and watch the low oil prices because this is affecting the economy.

The University

Zayed University, a leading university in the United Arab Emirates, is an innovative institution based on an international model of higher education. The University has experienced rapid growth, and currently has over 900 faculty and staff serving approximately 9,500 undergraduate and 800 graduate students on its twin campuses in Abu Dhabi and Dubai.  Zayed University prepares graduates to become leaders in government, business, civil society, and family life, and to contribute to building a knowledge-based economy and society. Through a curriculum grounded in learning outcomes, the University expects its graduates to be proficient in both English and Arabic, and to possess the skills in communication, technology, information literacy, research, critical thinking, and global awareness that will make them leaders in the interconnected 21st-century world.  English is the primary language of instruction.  Zayed University is fully accredited in the UAE, and by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education in the US.

The United Arab Emirates is a progressive country known for its high standard of living and its safe, family-friendly, multi-national environment.

The Opportunity

The Library & Learning Commons seeks an incumbent for the position of Information Technology Librarian, reporting to the Assistant Director, Technical Services. The position plays a key role in the Technical Services Department of Library and Learning Commons to support the library operations by maintaining Integrated Library System (ILS) and associated applications; incorporating new technologies and implementing innovative solutions to enhance learning and research for the information needs of students, faculty and users of Zayed University Library; providing functional support and training for library staff in the operation of the Library System and associated applications.

CRITICAL SUCCESS FACTORS:

  • Demonstrated knowledge of information technology applied in library and research settings
  • Knowledge of current standards in cataloging and metadata description
  • Ability to work efficiently and effectively, both independently and with a wide variety of people, staff resources and departments
  • Ability to work in a rapidly changing environment

Responsibilities:

  • Work with the Assistant Director of Technical Services to prepare the short and long-term plans, implement the technical projects in the Library, and recommend innovative initiatives and technology to expand library services
  • In collaboration with Technical Service Team, Zayed University IT, Library vendor and other business partners, to implement the new ILS with the agreed project outcomes delivering on time, within budget and in optimal use
  • Responsible for the maintenance, coordinate the testing of upgrades and new functionality
  • Manage bibliographic data loads and database maintenance routines, maintain logs of system programs, creates reports and globally update data in the Library System
  • Help with troubleshooting and resolving hardware, software and network problems in the Library
  • Contribute to the analysis of supporting development of Library System and associated applications, and the adoption of functional changes that lead to improvements in service and workflows
  • Collaborate with IT and business partners to ensure system/database integrity and information security
  • Provide functional support and training for library staff in the operation of the Library System and associated applications
  • Contribute to the on-going development of the Library System by participating in user groups and forums locally, in the region and/or internationally
  • Perform any duties as assigned by the superiors

Requirements:

  • Master’s degree in Library and Information Science from an ALA accredited program or its equivalent
  • A minimum of 6 years of relevant library related experience
  • Formal qualifications or studies in a computer studies related field would be advantageous
  • Knowledge of current library information technologies, library bibliographic standards and cataloging rules
  • Skilled in working with current web standards, application programming and mobile technology
  • Experience in system migration at academic library setting and/or working as system administrator, preferably in Millennium/Sierra, is desirable
  • Fluency in written and spoken English is essential
  • Knowledge of Arabic is desirable but not a requirement

Benefits:

  • The University’s benefits package is highly attractive, with competitive salaries free of tax in the U.A.E., housing, a furniture allowance, annual vacation airline tickets for the employee and immediate family, educational subsidies for children and healthcare is provided to the employee and sponsored family members. ?

To Apply:

  • Please visit our web site www.zu.ac.ae click on ‘Employment’ to be directed to the recruitment website. In addition to completing the online application form, attach a cover letter, a current CV, and the names and contact details of three professional references.

While we appreciate all applications, you will be contacted only if you are selected for an interview.

 


 

Job: Head of Libraries

3.22.16 –  Head of Libraries
Khalifa University of Science, Technology and Research (KUSTAR), Abu Dhabi, UAE

Sarah P’s comments: There are an abundance of universities in the UAE, some good, some not so good. KUSTAR does have good reviews to date and I am including a link to an article which mentions them in their discussion of the pros and cons of working in the Middle East.  The article is from 2012 but the information is still accurate and the author shares some insights which you should be aware of if you are considering working in the region.

The Middle East Option  by William Roden, Inside Higher Ed, 2/8/12.

 

About Khalifa University: With campuses in Abu Dhabi and Sharjah, Khalifa University is dedicated to the advancement of learning through teaching and research and to the discovery and application of knowledge. It endeavours to be an internationally recognised research university, with a world class reputation for interdisciplinary teaching and research and a tradition of partnering with leading academic institutions from around the world.

The University actively develops an international network of partners, faculty members, and research programs to advance regionally relevant research and innovation in the UAE and the region at large.

About the Department:

The Library provides information resources and services responsive to the teaching, learning, and productivity of students, faculty, and researchers. The Library’s main functions and responsibilities are:

  • To provide and facilitate access to quality resources and services for excellence in innovation, research, teaching and learning;
  • To provide leadership and expertise in navigating an increasingly complex and diverse information environment;
  • To develop education and training programs to equip faculty and students with the skills for lifelong learning and to satisfy the information and research needs of these clients;
  • To foster library staff to become innovative information specialists, skilled in providing exceptional service;
  • To contribute to the development and enhancement of the University’s goals and objectives.

The position is responsible for administration of the libraries and their staffing, resources, services, and budget. About the Role:

  • Plans space and equipment for effective utilization
  • Plans and manages staffing to provide effective services including circulation, acquisitions, cataloging, instruction, reference, document delivery, data management
  • Plans for systems implementations and effective use of technology, including LMS, digital repository, visualization and productivity software,
  • Promotes development of new information and innovation through provision of productivity tools
  • Prepares and administers budget
  • Sets collection policies and monitors acquisitions
  • Negotiates contracts for electronic resources and services
  • Provides high-level instruction and research service for faculty and graduate students
  • Encourages staff development to stay current with library trends
  • Represents library in university and beyond
  • Serves on eFADA (UAE library consortium) Board

About The Person:

  • Master of Science in Library and Information Science from an ALA-accredited institution. PhD preferred. Masters in science or engineering preferred.
  • Minimum five years experience as professional librarian in science/engineering academic libraries required. Experience with data management preferred.

About Other Requirements:

  • Demonstrated interest in academic research and teaching environment;
  • Demonstrated knowledge of resources and information-seeking skills in the sci/tech disciplines;
  • Demonstrated ability to be an effective team leader and team participant
  • Demonstrated ability to communicate effectively, orally and in writing, with students, faculty, and librarian peers;
  • Demonstrated positive interpersonal skills and client service orientation;
  • Demonstrated ability to organize and manage projects, work under stress and meet deadlines;
  • Demonstrated flexibility, skill at multi-tasking, taking initiative, being creative;
  • Demonstrated potential to contribute to profession through research, publishing, teaching, or professional service.

Note: you will be required to attach the following:
1. Resume/CV
2. Passport-size photograph

Closing date6.30.16

Application Information

Contact:
Human Resources
Khalifa University of Science, Technology and Research (KUSTAR)

Job: Information Technology Librarian

9/15/15 –  Information Technology Librarian
Library and Learning Commons, Zayed University, Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Sarah P’s comments: Zayed has been considered one of the better colleges to work for in the UAE however in recent years their reputation has slipped.  They have always had sporadic hiring practices; interviewing then no communication, it appearing that a job is likely and then no contract, etc.  Last year Zayed advertised for four librarian positions for their two campuses (Abu Dhabi and Dubai), one of them being the Assistant Tech Director, who is the supervisor for this position.

Dubai is a new, crazy city with lots of traffic but it is interesting and the Emirates remain a safe to live.  Be prepared for more expats than Arab nationals and watch the low oil prices because this is affecting the economy.

 

The Library & Learning Commons seeks an incumbent for the position of Information Technology Librarian, reporting to the Assistant Director, Technical Services. The position plays a key role in the Technical Services Department of Library and Learning Commons to support the library operations by maintaining Integrated Library System (ILS) and associated applications; incorporating new technologies and implementing innovative solutions to enhance learning and research for the information needs of students, faculty and users of Zayed University Library; providing functional support and training for library staff in the operation of the Library System and associated applications.

Critical Success Factors:
• Demonstrated knowledge of information technology applied in library and research settings
• Knowledge of current standards in cataloging and metadata description
• Ability to work efficiently and effectively, both independently and with a wide variety of people, staff resources and departments
• Ability to work in a rapidly changing environment

The Responsibilities:

  • Work with the Assistant Director of Technical Services to prepare the short and long-term plans, implement the technical projects in the Library, and recommend innovative initiatives and technology to expand library services
    • In collaboration with Technical Service Team, Zayed University IT, Library vendor and other business partners, to implement the new ILS with the agreed project outcomes delivering on time, within budget and in optimal use
    • Responsible for the maintenance, coordinate the testing of upgrades and new functionality
    • Manage bibliographic data loads and database maintenance routines, maintain logs of system programs, creates reports and globally update data in the Library System
    • Help with troubleshooting and resolving hardware, software and network problems in the Library
    • Contribute to the analysis of supporting development of Library System and associated applications, and the adoption of functional changes that lead to improvements in service and workflows
    • Collaborate with IT and business partners to ensure system/database integrity and information security
    • Provide functional support and training for library staff in the operation of the Library System and associated applications
    • Contribute to the on-going development of the Library System by participating in user groups and forums locally, in the region and/or internationally
    • Perform any duties as assigned by the superiors

The Requirements

  • Master’s degree in Library and Information Science from an ALA accredited program or its equivalent
    • A minimum of 6 years of relevant library related experience
    • Formal qualifications or studies in a computer studies related field would be advantageous
    • Knowledge of current library information technologies, library bibliographic standards and cataloging rules
    • Skilled in working with current web standards, application programming and mobile technology
    • Experience in system migration at academic library setting and/or working as system administrator, preferably in Millennium/Sierra, is desirable
    • Fluency in written and spoken English is essential
    • Knowledge of Arabic is desirable but not a requirement

The Benefits

The University’s benefits package is highly attractive, with competitive salaries free of tax in the U.A.E., housing, a furniture allowance, annual vacation airline tickets for the employee and immediate family, educational subsidies for children and healthcare is provided to the employee and sponsored family members.

To Apply

In addition to completing the online application form, attach a cover letter, a current CV, and the names and contact details of three professional references.
While we appreciate all applications, you will be contacted only if you are selected for an interview.