Book Repair Technician

About the role

Want to help maintain and preserve library collections behind the scenes?

You will play an important role in preserving and maintaining the library’s modern collections, helping to ensure they remain accessible to all users now and in the future. Working under the guidance of the Book Conservator, you will carry out book repair and rebinding to a high standard. You will also contribute to the wider work of the Library through activities such as exhibitions, outreach, and sharing your knowledge with others.

This role offers the opportunity to develop specialist skills in a supportive environment, with training provided as needed.

Due to the nature of this post, the successful candidate will be required to undertake a satisfactory Basic Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) due to working with Special Collections.

About You

You will be someone who takes pride in careful, hands-on work and is keen to learn new skills. You will have good attention to detail and be able to follow guidance accurately. You will be comfortable managing your own workload and contributing to a collaborative team.

You will have good communication skills, with the confidence to share your knowledge and support others. You will be digitally literate and open to learning new systems. An interest in the care and repair of books or cultural collections is important, and we welcome applications from people with different backgrounds and experiences.

What We Offer

As an employer, we genuinely care about our employees’ wellbeing and this is reflected in the range of benefits that we offer including:

• An excellent contributory pension scheme
• 38 days of annual leave
• A comprehensive range of childcare services
• Family leave schemes
• Cycle loan scheme
• Discounted bus travel and Season Ticket travel loans

More information is available at https://hr.admin.ox.ac.uk/staff-benefits

How to apply

You will be required to upload your CV and a supporting evidence form using the attached template as part of your online application. Your supporting evidence form should list each of the essential and desirable selection criteria, as listed in the job description, and explain how you meet each one. CVs alone will not be considered.

Only applications received online by 12.00 midday (BST) on Wednesday 9 July 2025 can be considered. Interviews are expected to take place during week commencing 21 July 2025.

Please note interview process consists of a verbal part and a practical test. During the verbal interview, you will be asked to show evidence of manual dexterity—this could be a piece of artwork, knitting, a DIY project, or other crafts. If you cannot bring the physical item, photographs are welcome. If you unsure what would be suitable, please contact us.

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