Apply by 01/12/2025

Integrated Library System Project Manager (Time Limited)

Hiring Range $70,357 - $78,175

Brief Summary of Work for this Position

The Integrated Library System (ILS) Project Manager will oversee the transition from Innovative Interface’s Sierra ILS to Ex Libris’ Alma Integrated Library Platform. This migration is part of a multi-phase project across the UNC System, with UNC Wilmington Library participating in Phase Two. Upon completion, UNCW Library will join a Library Network Zone that includes numerous other UNC System institutions. This is a full time, time-limited position with benefits with potential for renewal.

This position is pivotal for UNCW, acting as both technical lead and project manager for a team comprising members from various library units. Additionally, the role will serve as the main liaison within the broader UNC System. The successful candidate must ensure frequent and transparent communication across the library, Campus IT, and the UNC System, while also coordinating efforts between library departments, systems vendors, and other UNC schools.

Responsibilities encompass initial project planning, extensive data migration, review and integration of essential library systems, revision of workflows, creation of a training plan, implementation of the new platform, and post-implementation evaluation.

The ILS Project Manager will report to the Associate Director of Library Information Technology and Digital Services. This role involves close collaboration with campus Information Technology Services (ITS), software vendors, library staff and faculty, and the Library ITDS team.

Key Responsibilities

Lead the migration of the Integrated Library System (ILS) from Sierra to Alma by developing and executing a comprehensive project plan, including timelines, milestones, and deliverables.
Coordinate and communicate with stakeholders, including library staff, faculty, and campus ITS. Serve as the primary contact and liaison within the larger UNC system, working with other UNC schools and the ILS vendors (Innovative Interfaces and Ex Libris).
Partner with the Associate Director of IT & Digital Services, Associate Director of Resource Description & Management, Associate Director of User Services, and the library ILS Migration project team to plan, coordinate, and monitor all project activities.
Create strong lines of communication with library units, cultivating an environment of open feedback to ensure project requirements are aligned with library employees’ needs and expectations.
Proactively monitor system performance throughout testing, migration, implementation, and post-implementation phases, collaborating with Library ITDS, Campus ITS, and system vendors as needed to ensure seamless performance of library systems and services.
Determine requirements for thorough testing of ILS functionality during migration and implementation phases.
Work with the ILS Migration project team to determine optimal workflows and functionality and implement local system configurations accordingly. Participate in UNC System governance and represent UNCW Library’s requirements as it relates to consortium configurations.
Design documentation standards for ILS related policies, procedures, and configurations, assisting with initial documentation activities throughout the life of the project.
Develop training and communication plans. Lead training activities for library employees.
Address issues related to library systems and applications, monitor and respond to support tickets, and maintain clear communication with all stakeholders regarding project status, issues, and updates.

Minimum Education and Experience Requirements

Bachelor’s degree. An equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered on a case-by-case basis.
Experience in ILS administration and familiarity with ILS administration best practices and tasks.
Experience with project management best practices and methodologies.

Preferred Education, Knowledge, Skills & Experience

3+ years of project management experience.
Ability to effectively plan and manage complex projects.
Experience with Innovative Interface’s Sierra and/or Ex Libris’ Alma.
Understanding of discovery layers and common library system integrations.
Prior ILS migration experience.
Ability to design and implement training activities.
Excellent organizational skills and precise attention to detail.
Strong problem-solving and analytical abilities.
Effective communication and interpersonal skills.
Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
Ability to multi-task and handle communication across stakeholder groups.

*Special Notes to Applicants*

This position is time-limited with the possibility of continuation pending availability of funds and department need.

This posting will close at 11:59PM (Eastern time) on the posted closing date 01/12/2025. To receive full consideration, please be sure you have fully completed the entire application, including the ‘Work History’ section before you apply for this position. Applications must be submitted through the online application system to be considered.

Type of Position Time-limited

Anticipated Ending Date if Time-Limited Position 12/31/2026

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Gary Moore

Lead Cataloging Librarian

W.M. Randall Library

University of North Carolina Wilmington

601 S. College Rd

Wilmington, NC 28403-5616

910-962-4252