Shelf-Ready Services Manager

Job Title: Shelf-Ready Services Manager

Compensation: $51,168 - $69,784 (DOE)

Start Date: ASAP

Location: Bethlehem, PA (On-Site Required)

Position Type: Full-Time, Exempt (Salary)

Reports To: VP, Collection Management Services

JOB SUMMARY

The Shelf-Ready Services Manager is the driving force behind the efficient, high-quality, end-to-end processing of library resources (primarily books) from receipt to client delivery. Key responsibilities include supervising a dedicated team of processing staff, optimizing workflows to meet an aggressive 3–5 day turnaround goal, and ensuring impeccable quality standards. A core function involves client profile management, which entails collaborating with new and existing libraries to define precise specifications—from complex MARC record customization and holdings updates to physical processing details—and integrating these profiles into our production management system. This role requires a blend of technical expertise, process optimization acumen, and strong supervisory skills to deliver the best quality shelf-ready service in the industry for Backstage Library Works.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

I. Leadership and Team Management

• Lead and manage the Shelf-Ready Services team, including all supervisory functions such as hiring, training, scheduling, and conducting performance evaluations.
• Establish and maintain a high-performance production culture focused on consistency, accuracy, and aggressive turnaround goals (e.g., 3–5 days).

II. Workflow, Optimization, and Quality Assurance

• Design, document, and continuously optimize cataloging and physical processing workflows to ensure industry-leading quality and operational efficiency.
• Direct the daily production flow to meet client deadlines and serve as the final Quality Assurance (QA) authority before materials are shipped.
• Manage the integration of client profiles into the processing management software, collaborating with internal programming staff to ensure system functionality and accuracy.

III. Technical Services and Client Relations

• Serve as the primary technical expert for all complex aspects of the shelf-ready service, including advanced MARC record customization and detailed physical processing specifications.
• Lead the client onboarding process, which includes defining, documenting, and securing final client approval for all new processing profiles.
• Oversee all client profile requirements, from call number customization and holdings updates to specific physical processing details.
• Maintain strong professional relationships with both client libraries and external library vendors/publishers.
• Ensure compliance with current cataloging standards (e.g., RDA, LCC) and internal quality benchmarks.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Education: Bachelor's degree (BA/BS) in a related field, OR an equivalent combination of education, technical training, and experience.
• Experience: A minimum of two (2) years of progressively responsible experience in library technical services, resource processing, or high-volume operations management.
• Supervision: A minimum of two (2) years of direct supervisory experience, including hiring, training, scheduling, and team leadership.
• Technical Expertise: Deep, demonstrated working knowledge of current cataloging standards, including MARC, LCC, subject headings, and RDA.
• Process Management: Proven ability to design, document, and optimize complex, high-volume workflows with a strong focus on quality assurance (QA).
• Technology Fluency: Proficiency with Integrated Library Systems (ILS) or equivalent production management software.
• Communication: Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Advanced Degree: A Master's Degree in Library Science (MLS/MLIS).
• Vendor and Client Relations: Experience either working for a library vendor OR working for a library in a role that required collaboration with library vendors.
• Detailed Workflow Management: Demonstrated experience creating and maintaining highly detailed processing or technical services workflows.
• Analytical Skills: Demonstrated ability to collect, analyze, and report on production metrics to drive continuous process improvements.
• Physical Processing Knowledge: Direct, hands-on experience with physical processing materials.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

• Salary Range: $51,168 - $69,784 annually
• Benefits: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance; 401(k) with company match; accrued paid time off (PTO); and holiday pay.
• How to Apply: Email your resume and cover letter to

A comprehensive background check and drug screening will be conducted as part of the hiring process.

Backstage Library Works is an Equal Opportunity Employer: Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, national or ethnic origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, disability, protected veteran status, or other characteristics protected by law.

Job Type: Full-time

Base Pay: $51, $69,784.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Tuition reimbursement
• Vision insurance

Education:

• Bachelor's (Preferred)

Work Location: In person