The Opportunity
The Library and Learning Commons Department seeks an incumbent for the position of Digital Content Specialist who is responsible for the technical production, ongoing maintenance, and user support of the Library’s digital platforms and content, with a specific focus on emerging Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools and web-based services. This position supports the library's commitment to innovative service delivery by assisting in the lifecycle of digital initiatives, supporting the full lifecycle of digital initiatives, from planning and development through deployment, maintenance, and user support. Digital Content Specialist ensures the stability and functionality of the library’s digital platforms, web applications, and emerging technology initiatives.
The Responsibilities
Core Functional Accountabilities:
Digital Platform Development
- Participates in the design, development, and maintenance of web-based applications and tools to facilitate content delivery and enhance library operations.
- Develops and implements scripts or applications (e.g., using Python or R) to automate library tasks, clean metadata, or enhance user experience.
- Supports the creation and management of digital projects from concept to completion, ensuring milestones for development, testing, and launch are met.
- Explores potential open-source or commercial solutions for digital innovation, providing technical recommendations for their adoption.
AI & Emerging Technology Implementation
- Supports the technical development and deployment of library AI tools (including chatbots and automated service points) by assisting with coding, testing, and knowledge base updates.
- Collaborates with librarians to implement AI-driven approaches for resource discovery, metadata enhancement, collection development, and other library services.
- Facilitates the setup and maintenance of immersive technology hardware and software (e.g. VR headsets, AR applications, and interactive displays) for student and faculty use.
- Troubleshoots technical issues related to library AI applications and digital hardware, ensuring high availability and optimal performance.
Digital Content Production & Instructional Support
- Produces and edits high-quality multimedia learning objects (video, audio, interactive modules) that support the library’s information and media literacy instruction.
- Creates comprehensive, user-friendly documentation for new digital tools to facilitate adoption.
- Participates in digital material development, utilizing multimedia tools to create engaging content.
- Delivers technical training sessions or workshops to faculty and students on the use of library-supported emerging technologies.
- Ensures proper documentation and maintenance of digital assets and content, maintaining version control, security, and accessibility in compliance with institutional policies.
Assessment and User Experience
- Collects and analyzes usage data from digital platforms, AI tools, and immersive stations to support data-driven decision-making and service improvements.
- Conducts usability testing on new digital interfaces and AI interactions to identify issues, recommending specific technical fixes. Analyzes user feedback and data insights, and recommend enhancements to digital content, services, and platforms to improve user experience and effectiveness.
- Creates APIs and integrations between library systems and external platforms
- Ensures all developed tools and digital interfaces comply with international accessibility standards and Universal Design principles.
General Position Accountabilities:
- Participate in the library’s public services and technological initiatives, including but not limited to references services, instructions, workshops, and subject guides.
- Participate in library programming, committees, training, scheduling of classes, and special activities.
- Works with student workers and provides them with guidance and feedback.
- Performs other relevant duties as requested.
The Requirements
Education:
- Bachelor’s degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, Digital Media, or Library Science.
Note: If the degree is not in Library Science, the candidate must demonstrate equivalent experience working within a library or academic environment.
Experience:
- Minimum 4–6 years of experience in digital content management, library systems, or digital platforms hands-on technical experience in, web application support, or emerging technology implementation.
- Prior professional experience in library operations, information organization, or higher education technology support.
- Demonstrated experience with Generative AI tools (LLMs), prompt engineering, or immersive technologies (VR/AR) is strongly preferred.
Other essential requirements:
- Programming & Scripting : Proficiency in Python for scripting and automation; familiarity with APIs and data handling.
- Web Development : Knowledge of HTML5, CSS, JavaScript, and XML.
- Multimedia Production : Proficiency with video editing software (e.g., Adobe Premiere, Camtasia) and digital design tools.
- Hardware Support : Comfort with operating and troubleshooting hardware such as VR headsets, tablets, and interactive displays.
Desired or preferred requirements:
- Bilingual (Arabic and English)
The Benefits
The University's benefits package is highly attractive, with competitive tax-free salaries in the UAE, cash housing, annual vacation airline tickets for the employee and immediate family, educational subsidies for children, and healthcare for the employee and the sponsored family members.
To Apply
In addition to completing the online application form, attach a cover letter, a current CV, and the names and contact details of three professional references.
While we appreciate all applications, you will be contacted only if selected for an interview.
For further inquiries, please contact Recruitment@zu.ac.ae
