Senior Integrated Library System Administrator

Description

Senior Integrated Library System Administrator

This is a full-time, permanent position working remotely in a virtual office environment.

We are looking for a service-oriented individual who enjoys working in a diverse and customer-focused environment.  You are organized, technically sound and a credible system administrator. You have demonstrated an ability to work within a fast-paced and collaborative team environment, and you have excellent skills in building relationships, communicating effectively, and serving the needs of others. Most importantly, you are a responsive, hands-on problem solver and have a propensity to get things done!

What is SILS?  The Saskatchewan Information and Library Services Consortium (SILS) is comprised of all ten of Saskatchewan’s regional and municipal public library systems, plus the Provincial Library, which work together to provide seamless and consistent library services to over 300 branches.  SILS maintains the core library technology infrastructure for its members.  In addition to the ILS, this infrastructure includes patron-facing web and mobile applications through which our goal is to deliver a rich user experience through the dynamic integration of library collections and patron account functionality.  

What you’ll be doing:

The Senior Integrated Library System Administrator is responsible for the support and administration of the Consortium’s integrated library system (ILS) that provides a variety of services including circulation, cataloguing, acquisitions, serials, reports, external interface functions, and public access. Work is performed with considerable independent judgment and initiative.

System administration related responsibilities include:

• Maintain daily trouble-free operation of the integrated library system (ILS).

• Determine best practices for ILS system upgrades and software implementation.

• Develop and configure ILS features for effective system performance in a consortial environment.

• Configure and manage system data loads and third-party software connections.

• Develop and create recurring and on-demand reports for SILS agencies.

• Manage system access in an Active Directory environment.

• Troubleshoot system problems, escalate issues to vendor support when required, and implement and document solutions.

• Document procedures and maintain current and relevant support-related information in the system-wide Knowledge Base.

• Monitor industry trends and best practices related to information access and discovery and recommend improvements to existing tools and workflows as appropriate.

Customer service related responsibilities include:

• Work with stakeholders to improve services through systems refinement, enhancement, and innovation.

• Train agency and SILS staff in the management of statistical reporting and circulation functionality.

• Act as a resource to the Consortium’s committees and working groups when requested.

Qualifications and Skills:

• Demonstrated knowledge relational database structure, Microsoft SQL Server 2014 and SQL Server Reporting Services.

• Experience with T-SQL and stored procedures.

• Basic understanding with Windows Server (familiarity with Linux would also be an asset).

• Experience with a programming language such as Python or Ruby, as well as a version control system such as Git/Github.

• Basic understanding of HTTP RESTful APIs.

• Basic understanding of internet protocols such as TCP/IP, DNS, etc.

• Basic knowledge of MARC and non-MARC metadata schemas, standards, and best practices.

The following would be an asset:

• 3-5 years work experience with the Polaris ILS, preferably in a public-library consortium setting.

• Knowledge of library catalogue organization and standard library operating procedures and terminology related specifically to patron registration and materials circulation.

• Self-directed, flexible, and results-driven with a demonstrated ability to take initiative, collaborate, and deliver results in a timely fashion.

• Ability to work in a creative and highly productive environment.  Demonstrated ability to liaise effectively with clients.  Excellent oral and written communication skills in English.

• An ALA-accredited MLIS degree is preferred.  Additional degree or advanced diploma in computer science or equivalent experience.

Position: The responsibilities listed above are a representative but not comprehensive list, and other duties may be  assigned. The successful candidate will be required to telecommute and will join an existing team of five employees already working remotely.  Occasional travel may be required.

Remuneration: Salary will be commensurate with education and experience.

To Apply: Interested parties should submit a resume, including the names of three references, by e-mail to Rob Zylstra, Executive Director: rob@sasklibraries.ca  The position will remain open until filled.

Candidates may be considered for or offered other positions with SILS.  All qualified candidates are encouraged to apply; however, Canadian citizens and permanent residents will be given priority.