Special Collections

• Employment Type: Full Time (35-hour week)
• Duration: 12 month contract
• Remuneration: Level 6 from $100k + 17% superannuation & leave loading
• Location:  Kensington NSW

Why Your Role Matters:

UNSW Library Sydney is one of Australia's major research libraries, with extensive scholarly information resources, services, and facilities, including a flagship exhibitions program. It serves a large population of academic and research staff and students on two campuses and affiliated research institutes.

As the Special Collections & Experiential Learning Coordinator you will be responsible for the delivery of the Library's Experiential Learning Program. This program focuses on targeted, critical-skills development aligned with student learning outcomes. The role oversees the practical operations of all aspects of the Experiential Learning Program, including hands-on workshops, touch tours, and experiences with the Library's rare and valuable books.

The role works at the UNSW Sydney Main Library and Paddington Art & Design Library. The role operates Monday to Friday.

Who You Are:

The ideal candidate will have skills and experience as follows:

Relevant tertiary qualification with subsequent relevant experience, or an equivalent level of competence gained through any other combination of education, training and/or experience.

• Demonstrated experience with object-based learning and/or experiential learning programs in Galleries, Libraries, Archives, Museums and Records (GLAMR) sector is highly desirable.

• Demonstrated experience in safe object handling procedures and collection assessments in Galleries, Libraries, Archives, Museums and Records (GLAMR) environments with knowledge of rare books and preventive conservation.

• Demonstrated experience supporting the practical operations of an education program, as well as planning and reporting.

• Demonstrated experience developing and maintaining documentation used in educational programs.

• Demonstrated knowledge of intellectual property, copyright and moral rights laws and conventions as they relate to exhibitions and special collections.

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with a high level of attention to detail for deliverables produced.

Excellent time management skills, with a demonstrated ability to respond to changing priorities, manage multiple tasks and meet competing deadlines by using judgement and initiative.

• Sound stakeholder management skills, with the ability to liaise effectively with a range of stakeholders.

• Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively and productively within a team, but also to take initiative and work independently while managing competing demands.

• An understanding of and commitment to UNSW's aims, objectives, and values in action, together with relevant policies and guidelines.

• Knowledge of health and safety responsibilities and commitment to attending relevant health and safety training.

Within your application, you should include a cover letter addressing the following role priorities:

How to Apply:

Please submit your CV and a Cover Letter (two pages maximum) addressing the questions (below).

1. UNSW Library Special Collections and Exhibitions team develops and delivers exhibitions and learning programs in partnership with a broad range of stakeholders, including academics, students, artists and community groups. The Special Collections & Experiential Learning Coordinator requires collaboration skills to work with this diverse group of stakeholders to produce rich and engaging object-based learning experiences. Please outline your experience and provide an example of a specific project where you worked with diverse stakeholders and delivered a result. What was your role and what was the outcome?  
2. The Special Collections & Experiential Learning Coordinator will develop and deliver the Library's Experiential Learning Program, leveraging UNSW Library's special collections and objects from our exhibitions. Please provide an example of a time when you have developed an education program and how you delivered this from beginning through to delivery. What was the outcome?
3. The Special Collections & Experiential Learning Coordinator is part of a small, cohesive team that work together to deliver an innovative, inclusive and industry-leading program. Share an example of a time when you worked on a tight deadline or in a dynamic environment with a creative team. How did you work collaboratively to ensure the final outcome met the team's goals?

Applications close: Sunday 7th December 2025 at 8pm.

The Organisation

UNSW isn't like other places you've worked. Yes, we're a large organisation with a diverse and talented community; a community doing extraordinary things. But what makes us different isn't only what we do, it's how we do it. Together, we are driven to be thoughtful, practical, and purposeful in all we do.  If you want a career where you can thrive, be challenged and do meaningful work, you're in the right place.

Benefits and Culture:

UNSW offers a competitive salary and access to UNSW benefits including:

• Additional 3 days of leave over the Christmas period
• Access to lifelong learning and career development
• Progressive HR practices
• Discounts and entitlements 

More information on the great staff benefits and culture can be found here.

Get in Touch:

Jane Knowles Assoc Director Research Collections & Exhibitions -

UNSW is committed to equity diversity and inclusion. Applications from women, people of culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, those living with disabilities, members of the LGBTIQ+ community; and people of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander descent, are encouraged. UNSW provides workplace adjustments for people with disability, and access to flexible work options for eligible staff. The University reserves the right not to proceed with any appointment. #LI-DNI