University Librarian Jobs in USA with Visa Sponsorship
University Librarian positions qualify for H-1B sponsorship when they require specialized knowledge in library science, information systems, or subject expertise. Universities frequently sponsor H-1B visas for academic librarians, with high approval rates given the clear bachelor's degree requirement and specialized nature of the role. For detailed occupation requirements, see the O*NET profile.
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Get Access To All JobsINTRODUCTION
The Assistant University Librarian (AUL) for Special Collections is responsible for the development and management of the ECU Libraries Special Collections and related services to students, faculty, staff, alumni, retirees, researchers, and community members. Areas within Special Collections include Digital Curation, Health Sciences History Collections, Manuscripts, North Carolina Collection, Rare Books, University Archives, and University Records Management. The division has close working relationships with the library’s Preservation/Conservation staff and with Library IT Services. The AUL is a member of the ECU Libraries’ senior management team and helps establish and execute its strategic plan and goals and allocate resources. The AUL must meet the criteria for hiring at either the Associate Library Professor or Library Professor level. The position reports to the University Librarian.
ROLE AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Primary responsibilities:
- Leads a division of approximately 7 faculty, 7 permanent staff, and numerous student employees and interns.
- Leads strategic planning for the division and sets priorities for donor relations, collection development, preservation, exhibits, events, and digital initiatives.
- Promotes awareness of Special Collections’ services to the campus, local communities, and broader research communities.
- Leads the delivery of research, reference, instruction, and consultation services provided by Special Collections to internal and external patrons.
- Leads assessment of Special Collections functions and activities.
- Works collaboratively with members of the division and ECU Libraries to meet the operational, security and facilities management needs of the division, including space planning and use.
- Participates in Special Collections’ public service activities, including instruction, reference, and consultations.
- Collaborates with others in the division and library to cultivate and steward donors, particularly those who seek to donate materials and/or funds to Special Collections.
- Collaborates with internal and external partners to identify and pursue funding opportunities; may manage grant-funded projects.
- Serves on the ECU Libraries’ senior management team and works collaboratively to advance the library’s mission and achieve its strategic goals.
- Represents ECU Libraries and Special Collections on appropriate library, university and UNC system committees.
- Participates in library and university governance.
- Fulfills library faculty obligations relating to job performance, service, and research, and participates in appropriate state, regional and/or national professional associations.
- Performs other duties as assigned.
This is a 12 month, fixed-term permanent position. Contingent upon availability of funds.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
ALA-accredited master’s degree or international equivalent. At least 5 years’ work experience in academic and/or health sciences libraries.
LICENSE OR CERTIFICATION REQUIRED BY STATUTE OR REGULATION
N/A
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
- Knowledge and understanding of key issues and trends in special collections and archives within academic research libraries.
- Proven ability to lead, motivate and mentor library faculty, staff, and/or student employees and interns.
- A commitment to and experience in building and providing access to primary source collections, including born-digital materials.
- Demonstrated experience working effectively with faculty, students, and other researchers, and a commitment to a high level of service.
- Enthusiasm for, and successful experience in, fundraising, grant writing, cultivating and stewarding donors, and assessing proffered materials before acceptance.
- Demonstrated service to the field and record of scholarly/creative activity.
SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS TO APPLICANT
Finalists will be asked to make a brief presentation during the interview.
Applicants must complete a candidate profile by creating an account online via the PeopleAdmin system. Candidates must also upload a cover letter, resume, a copy of transcripts and a list of three references, including contact information. Letters of recommendation may also be uploaded at this time but are not required to apply.
At the time of employment two to three original letters of reference, official transcripts, a criminal background check, and proper documentation of identity and employability are required. Please be aware that if selected for an interview, an automatic e-mail will be sent to the individuals entered by the applicant in the References section of the PeopleAdmin applicant tracking system. Letters of reference submitted via the PeopleAdmin applicant tracking system will be verified and considered towards meeting this requirement. For letters of reference not submitted via the PeopleAdmin applicant tracking system, please have the original signed letters mailed to ECU Academic Library Services, Attn: Ashley Moore (Position #001044), Mail Stop 516, Greenville, NC 27858.
Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a fulltime basis.
ADDITIONAL INSTRUCTIONS TO APPLICANT
In order to be considered for this position, applicants must complete a candidate profile online via the PeopleAdmin system and submit any requested documents. Additionally, applicants that possess the preferred education and experience must also possess the minimum education/experience, if applicable.
JOB OPEN DATE
02/23/2026
OPEN UNTIL FILLED
Yes
JOB CLOSE DATE
Positions will be posted until 11:59 p.m. EST on this date. If no closing date is indicated, the position may close at any time after the initial screening date.
INITIAL SCREENING BEGINS
03/10/2026
RANK LEVEL
Not Applicable
NONDISCRIMINATION STATEMENT
East Carolina University is committed to workforce success and cultivating a culture of care for our employees. ECU prohibits unlawful discrimination and harassment based on race/ethnicity, color, genetic information, national origin, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability, political affiliation, and veteran status. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to their protected veteran status or disability.
Individuals requesting accommodation under the Americans with Disabilities Act Amendments Act (ADAAA) should contact the ADA Coordinator at (252) 737-1018 (Voice/TTY) or ADA-Coordinator@ecu.edu.
ELIGIBILITY FOR EMPLOYMENT
Final candidates are subject to criminal & sex offender background checks. Some vacancies also require credit or motor vehicle checks. ECU participates in E-Verify. Federal law requires all employers to verify the identity and employment eligibility of all persons hired to work in the United States.
DEPARTMENT FOR PEOPLE OPERATIONS, SUCCESS, AND OPPORTUNITY
If you experience any problems accessing the system or have questions about the application process, please contact the Department for People Operations, Success, and Opportunity at (252) 328-9847 or toll free at 1-866-489-1740 or send an email to employment@ecu.edu. Our office is available to provide assistance Monday-Friday from 8:00-5:00 EST.
INTRODUCTION
The Assistant University Librarian (AUL) for Special Collections is responsible for the development and management of the ECU Libraries Special Collections and related services to students, faculty, staff, alumni, retirees, researchers, and community members. Areas within Special Collections include Digital Curation, Health Sciences History Collections, Manuscripts, North Carolina Collection, Rare Books, University Archives, and University Records Management. The division has close working relationships with the library’s Preservation/Conservation staff and with Library IT Services. The AUL is a member of the ECU Libraries’ senior management team and helps establish and execute its strategic plan and goals and allocate resources. The AUL must meet the criteria for hiring at either the Associate Library Professor or Library Professor level. The position reports to the University Librarian.
ROLE AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Primary responsibilities:
- Leads a division of approximately 7 faculty, 7 permanent staff, and numerous student employees and interns.
- Leads strategic planning for the division and sets priorities for donor relations, collection development, preservation, exhibits, events, and digital initiatives.
- Promotes awareness of Special Collections’ services to the campus, local communities, and broader research communities.
- Leads the delivery of research, reference, instruction, and consultation services provided by Special Collections to internal and external patrons.
- Leads assessment of Special Collections functions and activities.
- Works collaboratively with members of the division and ECU Libraries to meet the operational, security and facilities management needs of the division, including space planning and use.
- Participates in Special Collections’ public service activities, including instruction, reference, and consultations.
- Collaborates with others in the division and library to cultivate and steward donors, particularly those who seek to donate materials and/or funds to Special Collections.
- Collaborates with internal and external partners to identify and pursue funding opportunities; may manage grant-funded projects.
- Serves on the ECU Libraries’ senior management team and works collaboratively to advance the library’s mission and achieve its strategic goals.
- Represents ECU Libraries and Special Collections on appropriate library, university and UNC system committees.
- Participates in library and university governance.
- Fulfills library faculty obligations relating to job performance, service, and research, and participates in appropriate state, regional and/or national professional associations.
- Performs other duties as assigned.
This is a 12 month, fixed-term permanent position. Contingent upon availability of funds.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
ALA-accredited master’s degree or international equivalent. At least 5 years’ work experience in academic and/or health sciences libraries.
LICENSE OR CERTIFICATION REQUIRED BY STATUTE OR REGULATION
N/A
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
- Knowledge and understanding of key issues and trends in special collections and archives within academic research libraries.
- Proven ability to lead, motivate and mentor library faculty, staff, and/or student employees and interns.
- A commitment to and experience in building and providing access to primary source collections, including born-digital materials.
- Demonstrated experience working effectively with faculty, students, and other researchers, and a commitment to a high level of service.
- Enthusiasm for, and successful experience in, fundraising, grant writing, cultivating and stewarding donors, and assessing proffered materials before acceptance.
- Demonstrated service to the field and record of scholarly/creative activity.
SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS TO APPLICANT
Finalists will be asked to make a brief presentation during the interview.
Applicants must complete a candidate profile by creating an account online via the PeopleAdmin system. Candidates must also upload a cover letter, resume, a copy of transcripts and a list of three references, including contact information. Letters of recommendation may also be uploaded at this time but are not required to apply.
At the time of employment two to three original letters of reference, official transcripts, a criminal background check, and proper documentation of identity and employability are required. Please be aware that if selected for an interview, an automatic e-mail will be sent to the individuals entered by the applicant in the References section of the PeopleAdmin applicant tracking system. Letters of reference submitted via the PeopleAdmin applicant tracking system will be verified and considered towards meeting this requirement. For letters of reference not submitted via the PeopleAdmin applicant tracking system, please have the original signed letters mailed to ECU Academic Library Services, Attn: Ashley Moore (Position #001044), Mail Stop 516, Greenville, NC 27858.
Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a fulltime basis.
ADDITIONAL INSTRUCTIONS TO APPLICANT
In order to be considered for this position, applicants must complete a candidate profile online via the PeopleAdmin system and submit any requested documents. Additionally, applicants that possess the preferred education and experience must also possess the minimum education/experience, if applicable.
JOB OPEN DATE
02/23/2026
OPEN UNTIL FILLED
Yes
JOB CLOSE DATE
Positions will be posted until 11:59 p.m. EST on this date. If no closing date is indicated, the position may close at any time after the initial screening date.
INITIAL SCREENING BEGINS
03/10/2026
RANK LEVEL
Not Applicable
NONDISCRIMINATION STATEMENT
East Carolina University is committed to workforce success and cultivating a culture of care for our employees. ECU prohibits unlawful discrimination and harassment based on race/ethnicity, color, genetic information, national origin, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability, political affiliation, and veteran status. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to their protected veteran status or disability.
Individuals requesting accommodation under the Americans with Disabilities Act Amendments Act (ADAAA) should contact the ADA Coordinator at (252) 737-1018 (Voice/TTY) or ADA-Coordinator@ecu.edu.
ELIGIBILITY FOR EMPLOYMENT
Final candidates are subject to criminal & sex offender background checks. Some vacancies also require credit or motor vehicle checks. ECU participates in E-Verify. Federal law requires all employers to verify the identity and employment eligibility of all persons hired to work in the United States.
DEPARTMENT FOR PEOPLE OPERATIONS, SUCCESS, AND OPPORTUNITY
If you experience any problems accessing the system or have questions about the application process, please contact the Department for People Operations, Success, and Opportunity at (252) 328-9847 or toll free at 1-866-489-1740 or send an email to employment@ecu.edu. Our office is available to provide assistance Monday-Friday from 8:00-5:00 EST.
How to Get Visa Sponsorship in University Librarian
Target research universities over community colleges
Research universities have established H-1B processes and regularly sponsor international faculty. They understand visa requirements better than smaller institutions and have dedicated international affairs offices.
Emphasize specialized library science knowledge
Frame your role around specialized functions like digital archives, research data management, or subject-specific collections. This strengthens the specialty occupation argument for visa approval.
Consider academic library fellowships first
Many universities offer postdoctoral or visiting librarian positions that can lead to permanent roles. These programs often include visa sponsorship and provide pathways to tenure-track positions.
Highlight technical systems expertise
Universities value librarians with database management, digital preservation, or library software expertise. Technical specializations make stronger H-1B cases than general reference work.
Apply during academic hiring cycles
Academic libraries typically hire during fall semester for spring starts. Plan H-1B applications around these cycles, with filing deadlines in mind for April submissions.
Network through professional associations
Join American Library Association conferences and academic library networks. Many sponsoring universities recruit through these channels rather than public job boards.
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Get Access To All JobsFrequently Asked Questions
Do University Librarian positions qualify for H-1B sponsorship?
Yes, University Librarian roles typically qualify for H-1B sponsorship when they require specialized knowledge in library science, information systems, or subject expertise. The position must require a bachelor's degree in library science or a related field, and most academic library positions meet this standard.
What degree do I need for H-1B sponsorship as a University Librarian?
You need a Master's in Library Science (MLS) or Master's in Information Science (MLIS) from an ALA-accredited program. Some positions accept a bachelor's degree in a subject area plus library experience, but the MLS requirement strengthens the H-1B specialty occupation argument significantly.
Are university libraries more likely to sponsor visas than public libraries?
Yes, universities have much higher H-1B sponsorship rates than public libraries. Academic institutions regularly sponsor international faculty and staff, have established visa processes, and understand immigration requirements better. Public libraries rarely sponsor H-1B visas due to budget constraints and unfamiliarity with the process.
Can I get sponsored for tenure-track librarian positions?
Yes, tenure-track academic librarian positions frequently include H-1B sponsorship, especially at research universities. These roles often require specialized subject expertise or advanced technical knowledge, making them strong candidates for visa approval. The tenure process can also support green card sponsorship later.
What happens if my University Librarian H-1B is denied?
If denied, you can file an appeal or reapply with additional evidence strengthening the specialty occupation requirement. Some universities may offer alternative positions like visiting scholar or research associate while you reapply. Consider consulting an immigration attorney to address specific denial reasons.
What is the prevailing wage requirement for sponsored University Librarian jobs?
U.S. employers sponsoring a visa must pay at least the prevailing wage, which is what workers in the same role, area, and experience level typically earn. The Department of Labor sets this rate to make sure companies aren't hiring foreign workers simply because they'd accept lower pay than a U.S. worker. It varies by job title, location, and experience. You can look up current prevailing wage rates for any occupation and location using the OFLC Wage Search page.
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