At a Glance
- Tasks: Support library services and manage information for a global community.
- Company: Join the International Maritime Organization, a UN agency focused on maritime safety.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, medical insurance, and participation in the UN Pension Scheme.
- Other info: Opportunity for career growth in a dynamic, multicultural environment.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a diverse, international workplace dedicated to knowledge sharing.
- Qualifications: 6 years of library experience and strong organisational skills required.
The predicted salary is between 48722 - 48722 £ per year.
Application Deadline: 13 July 2026
Contract Type: Fixed-term (initial one-year probationary appointment, with possibility of extension)
Salary: Approximately £48,722 net per annum, tax-free in the UK, plus excellent benefits including medical insurance and participation in the UN Pension Scheme.
About the Role
The International Maritime Organization (IMO), the United Nations specialized agency responsible for the safety, security and environmental performance of international shipping, is seeking a highly motivated Library Assistant to join its Maritime Knowledge Centre (MKC) within the Legal Affairs and External Relations Division. Reporting to the Head, External Relations Office, the successful candidate will play an important role in delivering professional library and information services that support IMO staff, Member States, delegates, researchers, students and other users from around the world.
What You'll Do
- Supporting cataloguing, accessioning and metadata management activities using Integrated Library Systems (ILS)
- Maintaining and enhancing library databases, bibliographic records and special collections
- Assisting with acquisitions, subscriptions, purchase orders and invoice processing
- Supporting digitization, digital archiving and preservation projects
- Maintaining and updating library web pages, online guides and electronic reference tools
- Providing information, research and document delivery services to a diverse international user community
- Assisting users with electronic resources, library technologies and research tools
- Compiling statistics, managing circulation functions and supporting inventory control activities
- Contributing to long-term library development projects, including retrospective cataloguing and collection management initiatives
What We're Looking For
- At least 6 years of relevant experience in a special library, research library, archive or similar information environment
- Strong knowledge of modern library operations, cataloguing standards and information management practices
- Experience working with Integrated Library Systems (ILS)
- Familiarity with Library of Congress Classification, Subject Headings and MARC records
- Knowledge of RDA (Resource Description and Access) standards
- Experience in digitization, digital repositories and preservation processes
- Web content management experience, including HTML and online publishing tools
- Strong organizational skills with exceptional attention to detail and data accuracy
- Excellent customer service and communication skills in a multicultural environment
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications and SharePoint
Qualifications
- Secondary education to university entrance standard
- A Certificate or Diploma in Library and Information Technology, Library Science or a related field would be an asset
- Excellent written and spoken English
- Knowledge of another UN official language is desirable
Why Join IMO?
Working at IMO offers a unique opportunity to contribute to the mission of the United Nations while supporting a globally recognized centre of maritime knowledge. You will join a diverse and international workplace committed to excellence, collaboration and public service.
Additional Information
This vacancy is open to candidates with local status only. Applicants must have unrestricted permission to live and work in the United Kingdom. We encourage you to apply if you are passionate about information management, digital knowledge services and supporting an international research community.
Library Assistant employer: International Maritime Organization
The International Maritime Organization (IMO) is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity to contribute to the mission of the United Nations while working in a diverse and international environment. With a strong commitment to employee growth, collaboration, and public service, IMO provides excellent benefits including medical insurance and participation in the UN Pension Scheme, making it an attractive place for those passionate about information management and supporting a global research community.
Contact Details:
International Maritime Organization Recruitment Team
