About the opportunity
The University and City Library (USB) of Cologne is the central library facility of the University of Cologne and the largest university library in North Rhine-Westphalia. The Human Sciences Department serves as a key point of contact for students, researchers, and teaching staff. In this role, the incumbent will manage print and electronic journals, handle integrated media processing for monographs, and coordinate media for the institute libraries of the Faculty of Human Sciences.
Salary and benefits
- Permanent, full-time position (39.83 hours per week) with flexible working hour models and option for split positions
- Remuneration according to Pay Group 8 TV-L (EG 8 TV-L) under German public service collective agreements
- Challenging tasks within a competent and motivated team
- Diverse and equal-opportunity work environment
- Support for balancing career and family commitments
- Extensive internal continuing education opportunities
- Occupational health management programs
Who can apply?
- Successfully completed vocational training as a Media and Information Services Specialist (Fachangestellte*r für Medien- und Informationsdienste), specializing in libraries
- Good practical knowledge of library management systems (such as Alma and EZB) and cataloging rules (RDA)
- Strong service orientation, conscientious working style, and willingness to innovate
- Resilience during high workloads and strong interpersonal and teamwork skills
- Good English language skills
- Prior professional experience in media processing is desirable
Required documents
- Comprehensive application documents including relevant certificates and proof of qualifications
- Applications must be submitted without an application photo
When to apply
- Application deadline: October 30, 2026
How to apply
- Submit your application online via the University of Cologne job portal at https://jobportal.uni-koeln.de referencing reference code TUV2609-21.
Additional information
- Reference code: TUV2609-21
- The position is available immediately.
- Applications from women are preferred in accordance with the Equal Opportunities Act of North Rhine-Westphalia (LGG NRW).
- For inquiries regarding the position, contact Kendra Hinnenthal at hinnenthal@ub.uni-koeln.de.
Our Take on This Opportunity
This section reflects Open Opportunities’ own analysis of the opportunity from an applicant’s perspective.
You may be a strong fit if…
- You hold completed vocational training as a library specialist and have hands-on experience with modern library management systems such as Alma, EZB, and RDA standard cataloging.
- You thrive in a high-volume academic service environment assisting university students and research personnel.
What should you think carefully about?
- Daily operational duties, cataloging rules, and administrative communication require functional German language competency alongside English skills.
- The role requires physical presence in Cologne to support the Human Sciences library department.
How could this fit your current goals and plans?
This position offers permanent public-sector employment with structured pay (EG 8 TV-L) and strong work-life integration benefits, making it an excellent long-term option for qualified library specialists seeking security and continuous professional development.
Our take
Qualified media and library information specialists seeking a permanent role at one of Germany's major university libraries should apply online before the October 30, 2026 deadline.
Ready to apply?
Review the opportunity on the official website before applying.
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