Freedman Scholars

Key responsibilities include:

• Staff walk-in hours in the Freedman Center Technology Lab to assist patrons with technology use and troubleshoot issues
• Answer virtual and in-person reference questions related to digital scholarship and library services
• Maintain and contribute to Center documentation and training materials
• Develop resources such as Research Guides or workshops in areas of expertise
• Contribute to consultations and project teams involving research software and digitization equipment
• Maintain confidentiality of patron research projects, especially data with Personally Identifiable Information
• Complete a professional development project aligned with personal goals in collaboration with Center staff
• Communicate effectively with patrons, peers, and Center and Library staff
• Collaborate with Library staff to ensure high-quality patron experiences
• Assist with training student assistants and conducting demonstrations for Center tours

The company is looking for candidates with:

• Ability to engage patrons in a helpful, friendly manner aligned with the Center’s mission
• Willingness to learn complex processes and best practices for user scenarios
• Background in at least one digital scholarship area such as data analysis and visualization, Generative AI tools, GIS, multimedia digitization, Large Language Models, photogrammetry and 3D modeling, Python, R, statistical analysis, virtual/mixed/extended reality, or web scraping
• Comfort with Windows computers and ability to troubleshoot technical challenges
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively
• Effective communication skills with patrons, peers, and staff
• Adherence to Center and Library guidelines on technology use, patron privacy, and resource stewardship
• Physical ability to sit for extended periods, move around to assist patrons, and perform moderate lifting

Preferred skills include experience or strong interest in statistical analysis, data visualization, and use of Generative AI and Large Language Models in research.

• Undergraduate pay rate: $14.30 per hour
• Graduate pay rate: $16.00 per hour

Scholars receive training to work independently, collaborate productively, and develop professional skills through a culminating project aligned with their goals.

Scholars average 10 hours per week in person at the Freedman Center in Kelvin Smith Library. Availability is required on Wednesdays from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. and generally Monday through Thursday from 1 p.m. to 7 p.m.