Reference Librarian (Hybrid)

Southwestern Law School seeks an enthusiastic, forward-thinking JD to join the team as a Reference Librarian at the Leigh H. Taylor Law Library. This is a unique opportunity for legal professionals ready to pivot into a fulfilling academic role, where legal training and public speaking skills will shine, and continue to make a real impact.

Southwestern’s Reference Librarian is a key part of a dynamic, mission-driven team, supporting the next generation of lawyers while doing meaningful work every day. 

This role will have the opportunity to:

  • Teach and Inspire – Help shape legal minds by teaching in our 1L legal writing and skills program, advanced legal research courses, and through guest lectures.
  • Be a Go-To Expert – Provide high-level research support to students, faculty, alumni, and staff, both in-person and virtually.
  • Create Innovative Learning Tools – Design LibGuides, online tutorials, and other resources to enhance research instruction.
  • Collaborate Across Campus – Work closely with faculty and campus departments on exciting projects and committees.
  • Grow Professionally – Engage with national library and legal research communities while developing your own professional path with our full support.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

  • Confident communicators with strong public speaking skills
  • Passionate about teaching and mentoring
  • Curious researchers with a knack for problem-solving
  • Friendly, approachable, and service-oriented
  • Excited by innovation in legal education
  • Open to new challenges in a fluid, collaborative environment
  • Able to work occasional evening or weekend shifts
  • A Juris Doctor degree from an ABA-accredited school (or foreign equivalent) and must obtain an MLS (or its equivalent) from an ALA accredited institution within the next four years.  

Preferred Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

  • Experience working in a law library
  • Teaching experience in legal research or writing
  • Advanced legal research coursework in law school
  • Law Review, Journal, or Faculty RA experience
  • Prior state or federal legal practice experience

A Career with Purpose, Growth, and Flexibility

At Southwestern, we believe in nurturing our people. Southwestern’s library leadership is deeply committed to supporting interests, including teaching, technology, access to justice, or anything in between. A Reference Librarian is a valued educator, mentor, and colleague.

Salary: $100,000 to $115,000, depending on experience 

To Apply: For full consideration, submit a cover letter, CV, and three professional references to jobs4@swlaw.edu.  

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