Supervisory Librarian (Research Specialist)

Full Job Description

The Congressional Research Service (CRS) seeks a Supervisory Librarian to serve as Supervisory Librarian (Research Specialist) of the Research and Library Services (RLS) Section within the Domestic Social Policy (DSP) division.

The Section works closely with analysts in DSP, the CRS division that responds to requests for public policy analysis on issues related to education, labor, children and families, poverty, income security, retirement, healthcare, immigration, domestic security and crime Applicants must have had progressively responsible experience and training sufficient in scope and quality to furnish them with an acceptable level of the following knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform the duties of the position without more than normal supervision.

Ability to lead and manage staff** Ability to apply knowledge of information resources relevant in public policy** Ability to apply knowledge of information research within public policy research frameworks** Ability to lead and inspire change** Ability to interact collaboratively with others** Ability to communicate in writing Ability to exercise judgement and discretion Ability to communicate effectively other than in writing Major Duties:

In support of the CRS mission of service to Congress, information professionals in the DSP RLS Sections advise and inform both the U.S.

Congress and CRS analytical staff by providing expert on-demand information research, information products and resources, product updating, information resource management, briefings and seminars, consultations on research methodologies, and customized training on information research and resources for individuals and groups.

The Supervisory Librarian is responsible for effectively managing staff in order to accomplish the work of the unit; anticipating and identifying the changing needs of Congress by keeping informed of the work; using knowledgeable contacts and authoritative resources; collaborating with other CRS managers; and developing information products and services that best meet the needs of congressional clients and CRS research divisions.

The incumbent is granted a high degree of independence, exercising considerable judgment in carrying out duties and responsibilities in accordance with industry best practices and CRS guidelines and policies.

In addition, the incumbent must possess knowledge of information resources and the principles and/or best practices of librarianship and information science to integrate information research with public policy analysis in issue areas covered by DSP.

CRS works exclusively for the United States Congress, providing policy and legal analysis to committees and Members of both the House and Senate, regardless of party affiliation.

As a legislative branch agency within the Library of Congress, CRS has been a valued and respected resource on Capitol Hill for more than a century.

CRS is well known for analysis that is authoritative, confidential, objective, and nonpartisan.

Its highest priority is to ensure that Congress has immediate access to the nation's best thinking on public policy issues of interest to its Members and Committees.

Supervises a group of employees performing work at a variety of levels including work up to the GS-13 level.

Provides administrative and technical supervision necessary for accomplishing the work of the unit. Performs the administrative and human resource management functions relative to the staff supervised.

Directly supervises staff members in one of two Research and Library Services sections in the Domestic Social Policy Division.

Leads their staff toward meeting the Library's and CRS's vision, mission, and goals by acting decisively, demonstrating flexibility and resilience, managing projects and functions, communicating effectively, and building and maintaining relationships.

Exhibits commitment to the Library's Supervisor Core Competencies.

Analyzes major issues in information access and dissemination, and develops authoritative new approaches, methods or standards to resolve critical or highly unusual research problems.

Uses broad knowledge of multiple information sources and/or experts outside the Library of Congress and/or CRS to resolve research issues.

Meets with researchers and analyzes questions and requirements in depth and detail and suggests search strategies for research involving the greatest complexity or time.

Provides research services for users that involve not only directing the user to information sources, but also locating and evaluating information itself.

Activities require substantial depth of analysis to access information. Serves as an expert in the organization, development, and implementation of multiple projects.

Organizes and develops projects utilizing critical judgment to determine scope, emphasis, approach, appropriate techniques, and manner of presentation.

Develops technical standards or protocols applicable to a library function.

Participates in planning the work of the unit, including formulating goals and objectives and identifying opportunities for improvements in methods and procedures.

Initiates, establishes, and maintains professional relationships with librarians and other specialists in order to share resources and information as well as to coordinate workflow within CRS.

Develops and maintains professional standing through a variety of methods, including participation in professional organizations which may include presenting papers at conferences, seminars or meetings in librarianship and other relevant fields.

Serves as a principal liaison for the organization at professional conferences, seminars, and exhibits. Collaborates on projects both inside and outside CRS and the Library of Congress.

The position description number for this position is 013358. The salary range indicated reflects the locality pay adjustments for the Washington, D.C., Metropolitan area.

The incumbent of this position will work a flextime work schedule. This is a supervisory, non-bargaining unit position.

Relocation expenses will not be authorized for the person(s) selected under this vacancy announcement.