About this role
• UQ Library
• Collecting, arranging and describing nationally significant collections in Australian literature, history and architecture.
• 2 x full-time, fixed-term opportunities with Base salary in the range of $97,268-$104,348, + generous 17% super (HEW Level 6)
• Based at our St Lucia Campus
About This Opportunity We have an exciting opportunity for two experienced Librarian/Archivists to contribute to the development, stewardship and discovery of the Fryer Library’s special collections through collection development, archival description and metadata creation. One opportunity is for a period of 3 months (backfilling Long Service Leave 28 October 2026 – 29 January 2027). The second opportunity is for a period of 12 months (backfilling Parental Leave) from November 2026.
Reporting to the Senior Librarian, Collections, you will be responsible for collection development and management activities including the arrangement and description of nationally significant manuscript collections in Australian literature and Queensland architecture, Aboriginal and Torres Strait islander languages and culture, and the identification and acquisition of published works in line with our Collection Development Policy.
As Fryer Library prepares to celebrate its Centenary in 2027, we are continuing to improve discovery of our special collections while exploring innovative ways to broaden their reach and impact through metadata, digital technologies and enhanced online access.
Key responsibilities will include:
• Arrange and describe manuscript collections at an advanced level, using established archival procedures and standards, as well as internal policies and guidelines to support inclusive and reparative description.
• Develop the Fryer Library’s special collections in accordance with collection development policies and guidelines, to enhance the teaching, learning and research objectives of The University.
• Interpret and administer complex copyright, licensing and access protocols, including Indigenous Cultural Intellectual Property (ICIP), liaising with the Senior Librarian (Collections), the Copyright Officer, and/or Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Services and Collections team, as required.
• Mentor and support the work of other library staff as required, including training.
• Build effective relationships with colleagues, clients and donors through high-level communication (including negotiation), interpersonal client service, and teamwork skills.
Please note this role is based primarily on campus due to the nature of duties and responsibilities involved, but flexible arrangements can be negotiated.
About You You’ll be an experienced, flexible, and tech-savvy information professional with special collections experience, ideally in an academic context. Essential:
• A degree accredited by the Australian Library and Information Association or the Australian Society of Archivists with subsequent relevant experience, or extensive expertise in special collections, or an equivalent combination of relevant experience and/or education and/or training.
• Demonstrated experience interpreting and applying standards to the arrangement and description of manuscripts, using relevant systems and technologies for the management and discovery of special collections.
• Experience interpreting and applying complex copyright, licensing, and access protocols for special collections, including communicating requirements to donors and clients.
• Demonstrated interpersonal, communication, collaboration, and time management skills with the ability to organise and prioritise own workloads, work independently, meet deadlines, and lead and motivate others to achieve team goals.
Desirable:
• Experience in working with collections that contain Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander languages and culture, and a working knowledge of ICIP will be highly regarded.
• Experience or interest in working with born digital materials will be highly regarded.
• Experience and/or familiarity of the rare book market, and application of that knowledge to the development of the library’s special collections.
• Experience in the use of Library Management Systems and/or Archival Management Systems such as Alma/Primo and AtoM, or other similar systems.
About UQ As part of the UQ community, you’ll have the opportunity to work alongside the brightest minds, who have joined us from all over the world, working together to create a better world. Join a community where excellence is at the core of our culture, contributions are valued and a range of benefits and rewards are available.
Enjoy up to 26 weeks paid parental and primary care leave, 17% super, 17.5% leave loading, flexible and hybrid working options, health and wellbeing programs, a heavily discounted Study for Staff program, on‑campus childcare, affordable parking, and salary packaging
About Fryer Library Founded in 1927, the Fryer Library’s collections include Australian literary publications, manuscripts, photographs, architectural drawings, audiovisual recordings, and rare books. Part of the University of Queensland (UQ) Library, the Fryer Library plays a critical role supporting research, UQ teaching and community engagement.
Interested? For more information about this opportunity, please contact Serena Coates on s.coates@library.uq.edu.au. For application inquiries, please reach out to the Talent Acquisition team at talent@uq.edu.au, stating the job reference number (below) in the subject line.
When you apply, please ensure you upload a resume and cover letter summarising how your background aligns to the ‘About You’ section. Please note that applications received via email will not be accepted.
Other Information Pre-employment checks may include verification of the right to work in Australia and criminal history check. This may also include checks relating to gender-based violence matters or other integrity and conduct requirements. You must maintain unrestricted work rights in Australia for the duration of this appointment to apply. Employer sponsored work rights are not available for this appointment.
We're dedicated to equity, diversity, and inclusion. We recognise that career pathways and opportunities differ and encourage applications from candidates who may not meet every criteria but can demonstrate their potential relative to opportunity. We’re also happy to support any accessibility needs throughout the recruitment process. Just let us know how we can help by emailing talent@uq.edu.au or calling +61 7 3365 2623.
Applications close Tuesday 22 September 2026 at 11.00pm AEST (R-68683) - Please note that onsite interviews are tentatively scheduled for week commencing 28 September 2026.