Special Collections Coordinator - University Libraries - UEIS

Carnegie Mellon University is a private, global research university that stands among the world’s most renowned education institutions. With ground-breaking brain science, path-breaking performances, creative start-ups, big data, big ambitions, hands-on learning, and a whole lot of robots, CMU doesn’t imagine the future, we invent it. If you’re passionate about joining a community that challenges the curious to deliver work that matters, your journey starts here!

The Posner Center houses CMU Libraries Special Collections, the university’s repository for rare books, art, and early scientific instruments and calculating machines. A gift of Henry and Helen Posner Jr. in memory of his parents, Henry and Ida Posner Sr., the Posner Center is located between the College of Fine Arts and Posner Hall, facing Margaret Morrison Carnegie Hall and the tennis courts. The rooftop features the Kraus Campo, a meditative outdoor space created by CMU alumnus artist Mel Bochner and landscape architect Michael Van Valkenburgh.

The Posner Center for Special Collections seeks a dedicated and service-oriented Coordinator to manage its reading room operations and support research, instruction, and public engagement. This role will oversee access to rare and archival materials, supervise student workers, and coordinate public services to ensure an outstanding user experience for researchers, faculty, and students.

Core Responsibilities: 

• Manage daily operations of the reading room and researcher services

• Supervise student workers

• Assist with outreach, instruction, and public programming

• Maintain researcher appointment schedules and collection access workflows

• Ensure adherence to security and handling policies for special collections

• Coordinate statistics and reporting for research and instruction use

• Develop and document policies related to public services and access

• Curate exhibitions and public programming 

• Support communications initiatives, including website and social media account updates and promotional materials for exhibitions and programs

Adaptability, excellence, and passion are vital qualities within Carnegie Mellon University.  We are in search of a team member who can effectively interact with a varied population of internal and external partners at a high level of integrity. We are looking for someone who shares our values and who will support the mission of the university through their work.

Qualifications: 

• Bachelor’s degree required; Master’s degree in Library Science, Museum Studies, or a related field preferred

• Experience working with special collections, archives, or research libraries

• Strong organizational and interpersonal skills

• Knowledge of rare materials handling and security procedures

• Experience supervising staff or student workers preferred

• Commitment to excellent customer service in a research environment

• A combination of education and relevant experience from which comparable knowledge is demonstrated may be considered.

Requirements:

• Successful background check 

Additional Information: 

• Work Posture: This position follows a primarily in-person schedule, with an on-campus presence expected the majority of the workweek. Flexible remote work options—typically up to two days per week—may be available depending on operational needs and with supervisor approval. This position is operating on a primarily in-person schedule, with an on-campus/in office presence 5 days a week.

• Typical Work Schedule: Monday-Friday from 9:00am-5:00 pm. An alternate work schedule allowing for evening and weekend hours may be required on occasion.

• Sponsorship: Applicants for this position must be currently legally authorized to work for CMU in the United States. CMU will not sponsor or take over sponsorship of an employment visa for this opportunity. Carnegie Mellon is not a qualifying employer for the STEM OPT benefit: only the 12-month OPT may be used to work at Carnegie Mellon 

Joining the CMU team opens the door to an array of exceptional benefits.

Benefits eligible employees enjoy a wide array of benefits including comprehensive medical, prescription, dental, and vision insurance as well as a generous retirement savings program with employer contributions. Unlock your potential with tuition benefits, take well-deserved breaks with ample paid time off and observed holidays, and rest easy with life and accidental death and disability insurance. 

Additional perks include a free Pittsburgh Regional Transit bus pass, access to our Family Concierge Team to help navigate childcare needs, fitness center access, and much more!

For a comprehensive overview of the benefits available, explore our Benefits page.

At Carnegie Mellon, we value the whole package when extending offers of employment. Beyond credentials, we evaluate the role and responsibilities, your valuable work experience, and the knowledge gained through education and training. We appreciate your unique skills and the perspective you bring. Your journey with us is about more than just a job; it’s about finding the perfect fit for your professional growth and personal aspirations.

Are you interested in an exciting opportunity with an exceptional organization?! Apply today!

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