Systems Librarian
Listing reference: nwu_001673
Listing status: Under Review
Apply by: 5 May 2023
Position summary
Industry: Education & Training
Job category: University and Academy
Location: Potchefstroom
Contract: Permanent
Remuneration: Market Related
About our company
NWU
Introduction
NORTH-WEST UNIVERSITY (POTCHEFSTROOM CAMPUS)
DIVISION: DVC RESEARCH AND INNOVATION
DEPARTMENT: LIBRARY AND INFORMATION SERVICE
POSITION NUMBER:
POSITION: SYSTEMS LIBRARIAN
PEROMNES GRADE: P9
EMPLOYMENT TYPE: PERMANENT APPOINTMENT
Job description
PURPOSE OF THE POSITION:
This position provides support for integrated library systems and infrastructure configured for the generation user preference to support teaching, learning and research. It is part of the integral process to perform efficiently in implementing best practice to achieve library goals:
- To implement the next-generation Integrated Library Management Systems (ILMS);
- To implement, evaluate, monitor, and support all library systems in support of the NWU Digital Strategy framework;
- To enhance e-resources and IT security awareness;
- To facilitate systems integration projects for seamless systems operations;
- To keep abreast of the latest IT developments and existing functionality to support streamlined workflows and expanded capabilities for administered systems;
- To implement intelligent technologies by supporting teaching, learning, and research in all modes of delivery; and
- To train and orientate staff and new staff members on new system features and upgrades.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:
1. Maintain Integrated Library Management System (ILMS) and Access Control:
· Strong understanding of library applications and technologies and experience working as an administrator of an integrated library system, manipulating records, and database management.
· Work collaboratively with the Business Analyst on the investigation of systems and user requirements
· Liaise and communicate system requirements to all stakeholders in the institution.
· Investigate and recommend integration between systems.
· Ability to collaborate with the IT team to migrate data from the old ILMS to the new solution, WMS/OCLC.
· Provide campus staff support and training in the effective use and general functions of ILMS i.e., Sierra and WMS/OCLC (various reporting tools - create lists, statistics, etc.).
· Monitor, troubleshoot, and handle queries related to Sierra/WMS.
· Provide access control to ILMS.
· A deep understanding of ILMS workflows and testing.
· Assists and initiates data cleanup projects.
· Link library staff needs to technological solutions.
· Communicate technical issues to colleagues in simple natural language.
· Organize and participate in the creation and maintenance of documentation for the library systems department.
2. Access Control on e-resources:
· Manage and provide access control in EZProxy to ensure off-campus access.
· Manage and administrate link resolvers for content discoverability and full text linking in coordination with Senior Librarian: ERM & Periodicals.
· Set up user access, troubleshoot, and solve issues with access to Research Commons.
· Grant access to CIRCA and Figshare.
· Provide backup support service for the Senior Library Assistant and ensures continuous access to library resources.
3. Collaboration, Marketing & Liaison, and Quality control:
· Liaise with Faculty Librarians – Develop and maintain alerting services (New publications)
· Develop guidelines, manuals, Standard Operating Procedures (SOP), and training staff.
· Work closely with staff who are working in the areas of Digital Humanities, IRs, Catalogues, and Digital Preservation.
· Provide input and assist in coordinating and drafting of necessary policies, manuals, guidelines, and regulations.
4. Digital Transformation of NWU libraries:
· Implement intelligent technologies
· Develop and implement the new statistical reporting system
· To develop a plan for the Digital Transformation of libraries across 3 campus libraries.
· Implement cloud-based technologies
· Implement the document management system
· Assist in the implementation of the NWU’s Artificial Intelligence (AI) services: the physical robotics project, and chatbot.
· Assists the Library Systems Manager in researching, benchmarking, and investigating new information systems, such as, Library Mobile App, Document Management System (DMS), Robotics Process Automation (RPA)
· Provide IT support on AI and Machine Learning (ML) initiatives
· Provide IT support and assistance on all library systems. projects, including NWU library digital strategy framework.
5. Provide sufficient ICT infrastructure support for NWU libraries:
· Support our existing self-checking support system.
· Keep abreast of proposed, new, and existing functionality to support streamlined workflows and expanded capabilities for administered systems.
6. Miscellaneous tasks:
Attend related workshops and conferences.
· Ad hoc tasks as requested by the manager.
· Support Open Researcher and Contributor Identifier (ORCiD) implementation.
· Assist with IT technical support on the Open Journal Systems (OJS) platform.
· IT support in absence of responsible staff.
Minimum requirements
MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:
· A B.Bibl degree (NQF level 7) or a relevant bachelor’s degree (NQF level 7)
EXPERIENCE:
· A minimum of 3 years’ experience in ILMS administration.
· A minimum of 3 years’ experience in IT support, troubleshooting and administration.
· A minimum of 3 years’ experience in administration of institutional repository.
RECOMMENDATIONS:
· A qualification in Information Technology.
· IT certification (A ; N ; or MCSE).
· LIASA membership.
· A minimum of 3 years’ experience in ILMS administration.
KEY FUNCTIONAL/ TECHNICAL COMPETENCIES:
· Proficient ICT skills, knowledge of web/internet environment
· Knowledge and understanding of one or more specialised library services platforms and demonstrated competencies in the administration and support of these systems (e.g., WMS/OCLC, Sierra, DB Text, DSpace and EzProxy)
· Knowledge of descriptive metadata schemas and bibliographic standards (Dublin Core, MARC21, and RDA)
· Advanced knowledge of multimedia file formats, tools, and methods for digital file format conversion
· Excellent knowledge of electronic library systems, digital content, and internet search engines
· Engage in problem-solving and workflow assessment in close collaboration with all NWU library staff
· Keep abreast of proposed, new and existing functionality to support streamlined workflows and expanded capabilities for administered systems.
· To engage with staff across NWU libraries to assess needs and priorities, facilitate systems integration projects, and advocate with vendors regarding issue resolutions and feature requests.
· To collaborate with central IT on third-party integrations.
BEHAVIOURAL COMPETENCIES:
· Ability to work independently and with little guidance.
· Critical thinking and willingness to learn new technology.
· Good interpersonal skills and ability to function in a team.
· Proficiency in English
· Ability to work under pressure.
· Knowledge of all ILMS modules of a library system.
REMUNERATION:
The annual total remuneration package will be commensurate with the level of appointment as advertised and in line with the NWU policy guidelines.
ENQUIRIES REGARDING JOB CONTENT MAY BE DIRECTED TO: Mr Cecil Gasa, Tel: 018 299 2801
ENQUIRIES REGARDING RECRUITMENT PROCESS MAY BE DIRECTED TO: Mr Rabs Diratsagae, Tel: 018 299 4797
CLOSING DATE: 5 May 2023
PLANNED COMMENCEMENT OF DUTIES: As soon as possible
Kindly take note: applications must be submitted online through the official nwu vacancy website.
Incomplete applications and those submitted through any other platform will not be considered.
The University subscribes to and applies the principles of Employment Equity (EE) Act and is committed to transformation. Preference will be given to candidates from the designated groups, in accordance with the principles of the EE Act and NWU Employment Equity Plan.
The University reserves the right not to make an appointment. Communication will be limited to shortlisted candidates only.
If you are not contacted within two months from the closing date of this advertisement, please accept that your application was unsuccessful.
