Director of User Experience (UX)

Overview
The Director of User Experience (UX) leads the Library Systems Department and
provides strategic direction and ongoing project management oversight for the
current and future development and support of the integrated library system (ILS)
and related systems and platforms. They will assist the Executive Director, Board of
Directors, and Membership with formulating vision and executing the most intuitive
and cost-effective system solutions possible, also coordinating the prioritization and
execution of current and future objectives and initiatives.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

• Supervises the members of the Library Systems Department.
• Manages and assumes overall responsibility for the UX of the ILS and all of its
  components, including the public access catalog (PAC), discovery layer,
  mobile app, and reporting modules.
• Uses project management techniques to propel system development and
  support forward on a regular schedule.
• Works with member libraries and committees to best understand how
  systems and platforms need to evolve in order to meet patron and staff needs.
• Engages in field research by interviewing end-users to assess the
  effectiveness of PILLAR systems.
• Assures timely testing and implementation of new modules and software
  upgrades.
• Acts as principal project manager between PILLAR, vendors, and the
  incoming library for migration projects stemming from incoming new PILLAR
  members.
• Actively keeps abreast of emerging ILS and UX trends and technologies, and
  how they may be implemented.
• Attends webinars and conferences to learn how other libraries are managing
  their ILSs.
• Leads training sessions and other continuing education events
• Assists in the writing of grant proposals impacting library systems’ UX.
• Serves as a liaison to the different system users group communities.
• Attends meetings and events in place of the Executive Director when
  required.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Qualifications
Education and Experience:

• Master’s degree in Library Science (MLS, MLIS, MI) or related field
• 3+ years of experience working as a project manager/coordinator
• 3+ years supervisory experience

Specialized Skills:

• Expert in project management principles
• Proficiency in popular project management platforms (Asana preferred)
• Clearly defined philosophy of modern UX/UI for a library setting, including
  ILSs, catalogs, discovery layers, and mobile apps
• Fluency in SQL
• Familiarity with cataloging principles, such as MARC & LCSH standards
• Proven track record of delivering excellent customer service
• History of taking initiative and perpetually integrating new technologies
• Ability to work independently and in a team environment
• Ability to maintain confidentiality
• Ability to interact with people with varying levels of knowledge or expertise
  with ILSs and general IT
• Ability to present ideas effectively, both orally and in writing
• Fluency in Google Workspace and Microsoft Office software
• Comfortable communicating face-to-face, via telephone, with email, and
  confident in addressing groups of up to 200 people.

Working Conditions and Physical Requirements

The position is scheduled for a 35-hour work week and requires the ability to work on
a flexible schedule, with occasional evening and weekend hours. PILLAR is a 501(c)(3)
nonprofit organization and is not subject to the “New Jersey First” state residency
requirements.

Work is performed primarily at the PILLAR office located at 16 Wing Drive in Cedar
Knolls, although occasional visits to member libraries may be required. This position
requires the ability to have transportation to make library site visits and attend
meetings outside the office.

Work is performed primarily in a busy office environment while sitting at a desk or
computer station, or while standing for extended periods of time. Physical exertion
may be required to lift office supplies and library materials up to 25 pounds. Specific
vision abilities include close vision and the ability to adjust focus. The need to
respond to competing needs or meet deadlines could cause stress at times.
Equipment used includes computers and various office machines.

Compensation

• Salary commensurate with experience, but within the $90,000-$105,000/yr
  range
• Generous health benefits
• 401(k) retirement plan

Deadline

• Applications will be accepted until the position is filled.

Preferred Start Date

• Negotiable, but ideally 1/11/2027

Submission Instructions

• Please submit a cover letter and resume to Executive Director Phillip Berg at:
  apply@pillarlibraries.org.
• Please do not call the PILLAR Office about this job posting.