Collection Development Librarian

  • James Cook University
  • Australia, QLD
  • May 13, 2026
Full-time
  •  

    Job Description:

    James Cook University (JCU) is creating a brighter future for life in the Tropics and beyond, through education and research that makes a difference locally and globally.

    We now have an exciting opportunity for a Collection Development Librarian to join our Library team. This role offers the chance for a skilled information professional to play a pivotal role in shaping and enhancing JCU’s scholarly collections, supporting the University’s learning, teaching, and research priorities.

    • Full-time continuing opportunity – 36.25 hours per week.
    • Located at our Bebegu Yumba campus in Townsville in picturesque tropical North Queensland.
    • HEWL 6: $90,821 - $98,369 plus up to 17% superannuation with UniSuper.

    WHAT YOU CAN ACCOMPLISH IN THE ROLE

    As a Collection Development Librarian, you will play a key role in shaping and enhancing JCU’s scholarly collections to support world-class learning, teaching, and research outcomes.

    In this role, you will:

    • Ensure seamless access to high-quality scholarly resources by maintaining accurate metadata and optimising discovery across library systems
    • Resolve complex access and supply issues, building strong relationships with staff, students, suppliers, and publishers to deliver reliable resource availability
    • Provide data-driven insights and reporting to inform strategic collection development and maximise the value of resource investment
    • Support compliance with licensing agreements and contribute to negotiations to secure sustainable and cost-effective access to resources
    • Foster a collaborative, high-performing team environment by mentoring colleagues and supporting capability development across Library Services
    • Contribute to continuous improvement by enhancing systems, processes, and service delivery through innovative projects and initiatives

    This is an opportunity to make a meaningful impact by ensuring the University community has access to the information resources they need to succeed.

    WHAT YOU WILL BRING TO THE ROLE

    You are a proactive and solutions-focused information professional with a passion for delivering high-quality library services. You bring:

    • Qualifications in Library and Information Science (or a related discipline), with eligibility for Associate membership of ALIA
    • Strong organisational skills and the ability to manage competing priorities while exercising sound judgement and initiative
    • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build effective relationships and engage confidently with stakeholders across all levels
    • Demonstrated experience working with digital information resources and Library Management Systems, including analysing data to inform decision-making
    • Well-developed problem-solving skills, with the ability to interpret policies, procedures, and compliance requirements to guide outcomes

    You will thrive in a collaborative environment and be motivated to continuously improve services and deliver exceptional outcomes for students and staff.

    WHY JCU?

    JCU offers a culturally diverse working environment with opportunities for professional and personal growth – working under the values of Authenticity, Excellence, Integrity, and Respect. We support our people through the provision of;

    • A generous superannuation scheme with up to 17% employer contributions with UniSuper
    • 5 weeks of annual recreation leave
    • 15 days paid sick/carers leave per year
    • Up to 6 months paid parental leave
    • 36.25-hour full-time working week
    • Flexible working options
    • Attractive options for salary packaging
    • Staff study assistance and paid study leave
    • Ongoing professional development support
    • Well-equipped facilities including an on-campus childcare centre, cafes, hairdresser, post office, medical centre and gym.

    HOW TO APPLY

    Are you ready to make a difference? Join us at JCU, where your future meets the tropics.

    Click the ‘apply’ button to be redirected to the JCU careers page, create an applicant account and follow the steps below:

    1. Complete the application form

    2. Upload your current resume

    3. Upload a cover letter outlining your relevant experience in relation to the key requirements of the role and how your skills and experience will ensure your success.

    Applications close Sunday, 31st May at 11.55pm.

    ABOUT OUR PROCESS

    At JCU, we are committed to employing individuals who meet the requirements of the role and align with our values. All applicants will be contacted and advised of an outcome once the recruitment process is finalised.

    Please visit our Information Privacy Policy to understand how your information is collected, stored, accessed and used.


    WHAT MATTERS TO US AT JCU

    • Our People - Our staff, students, and the communities we serve
    • Our Education - Knowledge has the power to change lives
    • Our Place – the Tropics and beyond
    • Our Research – a catalyst for innovation and knowledge generation


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