Chief, Collections Management Division Job in Washington, DC

Vacancy No. VAR003142 Department Library of Congress
Salary $150,160.00 to $225,700.00 Grade 00 to 00
Perm/Temp Permanent FT/PT Full-time
Open Date 10/1/2025 Close Date 10/17/2025
Job Link Apply Online Who may apply Public
Locations:
Washington, DC


Summary

This position is located in the Collections Management Division, Preservation Directorate, Discovery and Preservation Services.

The salary range indicated reflects the locality pay adjustment for the Washington, D.C., Metropolitan area.

This is a supervisory, non-bargaining unit position.

Relocation expenses may be authorized for the person(s) selected under this vacancy announcement.

MLS or equivalent or relevant Expertise is preferred, not required.

This job is open to

Clarification from the agency

Anyone may apply - By law, employment at most U.S. Government agencies, including the Library of Congress, is limited to U.S. citizens. However, non-citizens may be hired, provided that other legal requirements are met and the Library determines there are no qualified U.S. citizens available for the position.

Duties

The position serves as the Chief of the Collections Management Division (CMD), Preservation Directorate (PRES), Discovery and Preservation Services (DPS) Directorate within the Library Collections and Services Group (LCSG) at the Library of Congress (LC).  The Chief, CMD works under the general direction and supervision of the Director for Preservation who also oversees the Conservation Division, the Preservation Services Division and the Preservation Research and Testing Division.  The Chief, CMD is the Library of Congress's officer responsible for overseeing the physical storage of library materials, including stack maintenance, security, access inventory management, and long-term care of the more than twenty million volumes in the general collections and for other collections as assigned. 

The Chief is the Library's expert responsible for coordinating the planning, development and implementation of a program to effectively track collections items from the time they enter the Library to the time they are removed from the collections, including processing, circulation both' inside and outside the Library, custodial and storage location.  The position is highly engaged in various other Library collections management efforts, including implementing and maintaining the technology systems for tracking the location of items and collaborating with other Library units on large-scale storage projects. Serves as the Library's expert responsible for space planning for collections Library-wide both on Capitol Hill and at the off-site collections storage facilities.

Serves as the Library's security officer for the general collections and an expert in developing and implementing security policies for the collections of the Library as a whole. Responsible for and authority of the custody of the general collections, considered internationally paramount in their research value, their scope and their importance. Develops policies governing collection storage, retention, loan, and access. These programs reflect the Library's responsibilities as the National Library in supporting and adequately reflecting current research and other needs of Congressional, governmental, and scholarly clients of the Library of Congress.

Supervises a group of employees performing work up to the GS-15 level. Provides administrative and technical supervision relative to the staff supervised. Plans work to be accomplished by subordinates, sets and adjusts short-term and long-term priorities, and prepares schedules for completion of work. Assigns work to subordinates based on priorities, selective consideration of the difficulty and requirements of assignments, and the capabilities of employees. Observes workers’ performance; demonstrates and conducts work performance critiques. Establishes guidelines and performance expectations for staff and clearly communicates these through the formal employee performance management system. Provides informal feedback and periodically evaluates employee performance. Resolves informal complaints and grievances. Recommends appointment, promotion, or reassignment and develops work improvement plans, recommending personnel actions as necessary.

Formulates and administers policies affecting the mission of CMD, Library Collections and Services Group (LCSG), and the Library of Congress in the areas of collections, access, security, inventory management and collections storage. Provides broad policy guidance to managers to ensure effective integration of operational resources involved in implementing CMD and LCSG programs and initiatives.  Implements policy direction for cross-cutting initiatives that may require coordination among LCSG divisions and various components of the Library. Directs the development, planning, and implementation of policies and guidelines affecting broad, emerging and/or critical Service Unit and agency programs and objectives.

Establishes and maintains effective working relationships with various high-level individuals, including Members of Congress and their staff, other legislative and executive agencies, executives of major corporations, and distinguished members of the public.  Establishes and maintains close and cooperative working relationships with management and officials at the Library of Congress, government agencies, and other institutions with related interests, in order to advance the programs and objectives of LCSG and the Library of Congress.

Requirements

Conditions of Employment

  • See requirements listed below under Qualifications Required.

Your resume is important to this application process. It will be reviewed to determine whether you possess the qualifications referenced above. All applicants are required to submit a resume that provides specific information (to include accomplishments, work experience and education/training) that clearly describes what you would bring to the position.

The Supervisor leads his/her staff toward meeting the Library’s vision, mission, and goals by acting decisively, leveraging diversity and inclusiveness, demonstrating flexibility and resilience, fostering continuous improvement and innovation, and fostering integrity and honesty. To view the Library’s Supervisory Core Competencies click the following link: https://www.loc.gov/static/portals/careers/documents/loc_supervisor_core_competencies.pdf

Conditions of Employment 

Library of Congress employees are prohibited from using illegal drugs, including marijuana. The Library is part of the Federal Government and abides by federal law, so regardless of individual state or District of Columbia laws, marijuana use is illegal, considered criminal activity, and can affect your employment at the Library. In addition, past drug use and activities (e.g., selling or distributing) may deem you ineligible for employment.

Qualifications

The competencies below are required for this position.  Those marked with a double asterisk (**) are considered the most critical competencies for this position.

A candidate's resume must show a proven record of accomplishment that clearly demonstrates he or she has:

(1) Ability to lead people and manage a workforce**: The successful candidate has led people to meet an organization’s vision, mission, and strategic goals, including ongoing improvements in customer services and performed the following:  1)  identified current and future staffing needs based on organizational goals, objectives, and capacity gaps; 2)  communicated performance expectations to staff; 3) conducted periodic performance evaluations; 4)  provided advice and counsel to staff; 5)  addressed performance and disciplinary issues; 6)  delegated or planned and assigned work; 7)  provided appropriate training and professional development opportunities to staff; and 8)  identified and implemented innovative methods to improve staff productivity.

(2) Experience and expertise leading a collection management and access program**:  The successful candidate has professional knowledge of complex program management in support of collection management and access. Experience with the following: 1) operational support of collections inventory, access, security, facilities and collections space management; 2) budgetary and contract oversight; 3) program and project management skills; 4) collaboration with others to determine strategies to organize, digitize and make collections accessible; and 5) allocation of human, technical, and financial resources.

(3) Implementing the principles, concepts, and methods of library science**:  The successful candidate has applied professional knowledge of library and information management principles, concepts. Experience with the following: 1) setting priorities and policies for general and special collections management; 2) developing strategies to improve the research experience and a culture of assessment; 3) determining strategies to organize, digitize and make collections accessible; 4) providing leadership for collection management, development, and acquisition; 5) working closely with library subject specialists in setting; and 6) developing collaborative approaches to public outreach to increase the use of library collections and services.

(4) Expertise to analyze complex organizational and operational problems and implement solutions:  The successful candidate has provided appropriate strategies to solve program and/or organizational and operational issues and problems. Functions performed include: 1) developed new or enhanced procedures within a work unit, 2) independently made technical judgments, 3) developed practices and standards, and 4) justified new and revised programs and projects to upper management.

(5) Ability to lead and inspire change: The successful candidate has led people effectively and inspired change in developing and implementing agency values, principles, and direction. This includes the ability to promote ideas with enthusiasm, conviction, and assertiveness; resolve contentious situations; solicit and consider others’ opinions; gain support and commitment from others; motivate and inspire others; and promote a culture of change and growth.

(6) Ability to build and engage coalitions and networks in support of mission: The successful candidate has Identified, built, and maintained relationships and networks to gain support and commitment from scholars and other learners; the publishing and creative community; and colleagues in the library field.  This includes:  1) participating in and representing the institution at professional association meetings; 2) working collaboratively with other divisions, directorates, service units and organizations to further Library goals and objectives; and 3) working with the archival and research library community to identify trends and issues related to the collections and services of the Library.

(7) Ability to communicate effectively other than in writing:  The successful candidate has effectively express ideas and recommendations other than in writing in various settings to peers, staff, managers, supervisors, and external audiences to both provide and seek information. This includes actively listening to or understanding communicated information and answering questions thoughtfully and completely.

Education

This job does not have an education qualification requirement.

Additional information

The position description number for this position is 465017.

All initial appointments, permanent or indefinite, to the Library of Congress require completion of a one-year probationary period. In addition, all newly appointed Senior Level executives, from outside the Library as well as from within, must serve a one year probationary period in accordance with the Library of Congress Regulations (LCRs) 9-1610 Senior Level Executive System.

The Library of Congress is an equal opportunity employer.  All who meet the eligibility requirements are encouraged to apply. 

Applicants must submit a complete application package that is received by the closing date of this announcement.

This agency provides reasonable accommodation to applicants with disabilities. If you need a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application and hiring process, please email ADA@loc.gov. The decision on granting reasonable accommodation will be determined on a case-by-case basis.

Applicants with disabilities may be considered under special hiring procedures and must submit an appropriate certificate of eligibility when applying for this position. The proof or disability/certification may be issued by the State Vocational Rehabilitation Office, Disability Services or Career Services office of the applicant’s college or university, or the Department of Veterans Affairs. The letter must verify that the applicant has a severe disability and must be dated within three years of the date of the application.  Certification from health care providers are not accepted. For more information contact the Library's Office of Equal Employment Opportunity at 202-707-6024 or email spp@loc.gov. FAILURE TO SUBMIT YOUR CERTIFICATION WILL CAUSE YOUR APPLICATION TO NOT BE CONSIDERED UNDER THE SELECTIVE PLACEMENT PROGRAM.

The Library of Congress is the national library of the United States and is part of the Legislative Branch of the Federal government. As such, all positions are in the excepted service. Appointment/retention is subject to a favorable evaluation of an appropriate personnel security/suitability investigation.

The Library of Congress may offer repayment for all or part of federally insured student loans. However, not all service units within the Library of Congress participates in the repayment of federally insured student loans. Therefore, determination to repay a federally insured student loan is subject to approval by the appropriate service unit.

The selected applicant will be required to file a financial disclosure statement with the House of Representatives, U.S. Congress, in accordance with the provisions of Public Law 95-521, the Ethics in Government Act of 1978.

Are you a veteran?  Please indicate the type of veterans' preference you are claiming in your application materials and/or applicant profile and provide the appropriate supporting documentation to validate your claim.  Those applying for 5-point preference must submit Member Copy 4 of your DD 214.  Those applying for 10-point preference must fill out an SF-15 (click here for the form) and provide the required documentation listed on the back of the form.  If required supporting documentation is not attached, Veterans' Preference will not be considered in the application process.

For more information regarding eligibility requirements, please see the Library of Congress Merit Selection Plan, Section 8.5, at: Senior Level Merit Selection Plan.

Candidates should be committed to improving the efficiency of the Federal government, passionate about the ideals of our American republic, and committed to upholding the rule of law and the United States Constitution.

Benefits

A career with the U.S. government provides employees with a comprehensive benefits package. As a federal employee, you and your family will have access to a range of benefits that are designed to make your federal career very rewarding. Opens in a new windowLearn more about federal benefits.

Review our benefits

Eligibility for benefits depends on the type of position you hold and whether your position is full-time, part-time or intermittent. Contact the hiring agency for more information on the specific benefits offered.

How You Will Be Evaluated

You will be evaluated for this job based on how well you meet the qualifications above.

The Library of Congress will evaluate applicants using the information provided in your resume. Reviews are intended to explore applicants' experience, knowledge, and training directly related to the job in order to identify the best qualified applicants for selection. For Senior Level positions, applicants do not need to respond to specific competency questions but will be requested to answer one question related to how they became aware of this job opportunity.
You may preview questions for this vacancy.

Required Documents

Current or former federal employees must submit their most recent Notification of Personnel Action (SF-50 or equivalent).

Applicants with disabilities may be considered under special hiring procedures and must submit an appropriate certificate of eligibility when applying for this position. The proof or disability/certification may be issued by the State Vocational Rehabilitation Office, Disability Services or Career Services office of the applicant’s college or university, or the Department of Veterans Affairs. The letter must verify that the applicant has a severe disability and must be dated within three years of the date of the application.  The program does not accept certification from health care providers. For more information contact the Library's Office of Equal Employment Opportunity Office at 202-707-6024 or email spp@loc.gov. FAILURE TO SUBMIT YOUR CERTIFICATION WILL CAUSE YOUR APPLICATION TO NOT BE CONSIDERED UNDER THE SELECTIVE PLACEMENT PROGRAM.

How to Apply

Please carefully follow all instructions under the How to Apply tab to ensure that you are considered for the position.

Please note, there is no page restriction to your resume, and you are allowed to upload a resume longer than two pages in the documents section within the application process. When the application system prompts, please proceed to the agency site to complete your application.

Step 1: If you do not already have one, create a resume on USAJOBS. Although you must enter your Social Security Number for USAJOBS, this information will not be provided to the Library of Congress.

Step 2: Review the Job Announcement. We recommend you go to the Qualifications and Evaluations section of the job announcement to review the qualifications listed to ensure that your resume reflects your accomplishments in those areas.

Step 3: Click on the "APPLY ONLINE" button to the right of this announcement. Follow USAJOBS' instructions to access your account and submit your resume. You will be redirected to the Hiring Management website to complete the application process. If this is your first time in Hiring Management, you will be asked to answer questions related to your eligibility for Federal employment. You will be able to update this information and save it to our account for future announcements.

Step 4: Click on "Finish" after you have completed your application. Once you have submitted your application, you can check your status online through your Hiring Management or MY USAJOBS account. If you are experiencing any technical difficulty with the online process, you MUST CONTACT THE POINT OF CONTACT FOR THIS ANNOUNCEMENT BEFORE THE CLOSING DATE. For all technical issues please contact jobhelp@loc.gov , no later than 4:30pm EST of the Closing Date.

Agency contact information

Customer Service Center
Address
LIBRARY OF CONGRESS
101 Independence Ave. SE
Washington, District of Columbia 20540
United States

Next steps

Please review our evaluation process under Qualifications and Evaluations. You may check the status of your application for this position at any time by logging onto the USAJOBS "My USAJOBS" tab and clicking on "My Applications." You will receive final notification via e-mail when the vacancy has been filled.


Note: We cannot accept applications on behalf of Federal Agencies. Application instructions are listed within the Job Description.