Library of Congress Internship For Quality Assurance Specialist 2025 (Hiring Now)

Are you passionate about standards, quality, and accessibility? If you’re looking for jobs that make a difference and offer real-world impact, then this could be the perfect opportunity for you. The Library of Congress is hiring a Quality Assurance Specialist for the National Library Service for the Blind and Print Disabled (NLS). This role is an incredible opportunity for those who are detail-oriented and interested in making materials accessible to everyone.

Whether you’re kickstarting your career or looking for new challenges, this position provides you with the chance to contribute to meaningful work in one of the nation’s most respected institutions.

Program Overview:

This position is embedded in the Collections Division under the National Library Services for the Blind and Print Disabled. It involves ensuring the quality standards for braille reading materials in both physical and electronic formats.

Designed as an indefinite position not to exceed two years, this role is fully remote and eligible for 100% distant telework. The salary range listed aligns with the Washington, DC locality pay scale but may vary depending on your location outside of this area.

The position is open to U.S. citizens who want to participate in the ongoing effort to make braille materials accessible, accurate, and reliable for blind and print-disabled users.

Responsibilities

The Quality Assurance Specialist is responsible for maintaining and improving the standards of braille production, including electronic and embossed materials. Below are some of the notable duties associated with this role:

• Auditing and Evaluating Braille Materials: Inspect embossed and digital braille books and periodicals to ensure compliance with NLS standards.
• Setting and Implementing Standards: Plan and develop production standards for electronic and embossed braille materials.
• Guidance for Contractors: Work closely with external contractors, libraries, and multistate centers to ensure compliance with quality assurance measures.
• Quality Assurance Audits: Certify the quality of braille masters and files while critiquing findings and suggesting improvements.
• Tactile Graphics and Illustrations: Evaluate tactile graphics and descriptions to meet the needs of various audiences, considering content and readability.
• Software-Driven QA Programs: Manage comprehensive quality assurance programs using advanced software to monitor and analyze data.
• Collaboration with Experts: Represent the NLS at conferences and offer technical expertise in quality assurance best practices.

This position requires a blend of technical understanding, meticulous attention to detail, and the ability to coordinate with diverse teams.

Qualifications and Requirements

Applicants must demonstrate a blend of field knowledge and hands-on skills in quality assurance, braille, and digital accessibility. Below are the key qualifications required for the role.

Core Requirements:

• Experience in performing quality inspection of both physical and digital braille materials.
• Strong understanding of braille transcription systems, formats, and applicable technical standards.
• Knowledge of quality assurance principles for braille production, including various transcription methods like optical character recognition and direct braille input.
• Ability to evaluate and communicate results effectively, both in writing and via verbal presentations.
• Knowledge of tactile graphics and their application in braille texts.

Additional Notes:
This role does not have specific educational qualifications but requires progressively responsible experience that ensures the applicant can perform effectively without supervision. Veterans and persons with disabilities are encouraged to apply under special hiring programs.

Salary and Benefits

The salary for this position is determined based on the Washington, DC locality pay scale but may vary by geographic location for remote employees. Although relocation expenses are not covered, the position offers valuable benefits.

Key Benefits Include:

• Telework flexibility, with eligibility for 100% remote work.
• Competitive federal employee benefits, including health insurance and retirement plans.
• The opportunity to work within the prestigious Library of Congress and collaborate with like-minded professionals committed to accessibility and inclusion.

Please be aware that the job’s “Not to Exceed” status identifies it as a position with a specified end date of up to two years. However, this role still provides invaluable career-developing experience in an impactful field.

How to Apply

Applying for this opportunity is straightforward, but attention to detail is crucial to ensure your application is complete and eligible for consideration.

Step 1: Prepare your application materials, including an updated resume highlighting your relevant experience in quality assurance, braille, or similar fields. Include details emphasizing leadership, technical know-how, and relevant skills.

Step 2: Submit all required documentation through the Library of Congress’ official application system before the stated deadline.

• Ensure you include complete details, such as transcripts or certifications, when applicable.
• Documents attesting relevant experience, particularly in braille format production and auditing processes, should also be attached.

Step 3: Monitor your application status through the online portal and be prepared to provide additional documentation, if requested.

This role encourages applications from qualified individuals with disabilities and veterans. Accessibility accommodations during the application process are available upon request.

Why This Opportunity Matters

This position not only supports your career growth but also contributes to improving accessibility for those who rely on braille materials. By maintaining high-quality standards for embossed and digital braille products, you’ll play an essential role in advancing equity in education and entertainment for blind and print-disabled communities.

The position is also an incredible chance to work with the nation’s largest library, participate in cutting-edge accessibility practices, and gain unparalleled experience in quality assurance and technical standards.

Don’t miss this unique opportunity to make a difference while growing professionally. Start your application today to join the Library of Congress’ efforts in delivering top-quality accessible materials!

Submit Library of Congress Internship Application