Subject Expert*in Discovery 80 %

Bern

Key information

Publication date:23 January 2026
Workload:80%
Place of work:Bern

Job summary

The University Library of Bern seeks a tech-savvy individual. Join us to enhance modern library systems and contribute to a collaborative environment.

Tasks

Lead the Discovery function and manage swisscovery operations.
Support library staff with system-related inquiries and training.
Facilitate knowledge transfer and oversee Discovery reporting.

Skills

Degree in Information Science or equivalent; library experience required.
Strong technical affinity and quick comprehension of complex topics.
Excellent communication and team collaboration skills.

Is this helpful?

The IZ Coordination Department of the University Library Bern is looking for a committed and tech-savvy personality as of March 1, 2026, or by arrangement, who enjoys further developing modern library systems and acting as a competent contact person in the Discovery area. If you enjoy working at the intersection of technology, service quality, and knowledge transfer, we look forward to your application.
University Library Bern (UB)
We provide information resources for research, teaching, and study – electronically or on paper
We assist with simple as well as complex (subject) searches and impart information literacy
We offer support and infrastructure for scientific publications, research, and project data
We collect and digitize Bernese materials
And we are here for everyone as a university and cantonal library

Tasks / Purpose of the Position

As the central subject expert*in of IZ UBE, you are the first contact person for the Discovery function area. You are responsible for the support, configuration, and operation of the swisscovery platform for the University and PH Bern, including release and demand management as well as support for the Discovery department within the strategic guidelines of UB Bern. You advise library staff on system librarian issues and act as the central interface to the Swiss Library Service Platform (SLSP) in the Discovery area. From 2026, you will accompany the transition of our search platform from Primo VE to NDE. In the area of knowledge management, you ensure the building and transfer of knowledge within IZ UBE, create work materials and documentation, and actively monitor professional and technological developments in the Discovery area. Furthermore, you prepare reports, key figures, and evaluations for the area and lead the Discovery working group of UB Bern.

Requirements

University of applied sciences degree as an information and documentation specialist, training as a scientific librarian, MAS in the I+D area, or equivalent qualification
Professional experience in customer service and metadata management of a scientific library, experience/interest in UX-related issues
Basic knowledge of common cataloging standards (RDA, GND, MARC21)
Very good knowledge of the functioning of modern search platforms
Solid experience in the operation and configuration of library software, ideally Alma and Primo VE, and content management systems
Project experience in library or technical contexts is an advantage
Experience with process management and training is an advantage
English skills at least level B2, especially for technical exchange
High technical affinity and ability to quickly grasp complex issues
Strong communication skills and negotiation ability
Teamwork skills, sociability, and networking competence

We Offer

A responsible and varied activity in an open and motivated team
The opportunity to actively shape the central search platform of UB Bern
A workplace in the heart of Bern's old town
Flexible working hours and attractive employment conditions according to cantonal guidelines

Application and Contact

For professional inquiries about the position, Barbara Studer (Team Leader Metadata-Discovery-Services) is available: barbara.studer@unibe.ch

Please send your application with the usual documents electronically by February 13, 2026 to direktionssekretariat.ub@unibe.ch.