What are the responsibilities and job description for the Passport Agent, System Services (Grade M / Job# 2026-22) position at Somerset County Library System?
Compensation: $22.47/hour
Schedule & Hours: Up to 20 hours per week. Since the library is open days and evenings, a flexible schedule is required, including evening shifts, 3 Saturdays/month, and occasional Sundays and holidays.
At SCLSNJ, we don’t just process applications—we serve as the launch pad for our community's global adventures. As a Passport Acceptance Agent, Notary Public, and Library Assistant, you are one of the first welcoming faces our patrons meet. You will open up a world of possibilities for our patrons by guiding them seamlessly through the passport application and notary processes, answering questions with empathy, knowledge, and confidence, and ensuring their journey starts on a high note.
Destination: Success (Essential Functions & Behaviors)
To thrive in this role, you won't just follow a checklist; you will own the customer experience.
Your daily "travel route" includes:
- Navigating with Care: Providing direct, first-class assistance to the public. You will meticulously review, handle, and process US passport applications and fees, ensuring every detail meets strict Federal requirements.
- The Welcoming Guide: Administering the passport oath and taking official photos with a warm, patient demeanor that puts nervous travelers at ease.
- Cross-Country Support: Answering phone inquiries, directing customers to vital library resources, and lending a hand with notary services.
- A Secure Return: Methodically preparing daily financial deposits of passport fees and submitting documentation safely to the SCLSNJ Finance Office.
The Ideal Traveler: Traits & Passions
We are looking for individuals whose personal qualities shine brighter than a standard checklist.
You will be a perfect fit if you bring:
- A Hospitality First Mindset: You genuinely love helping people. You view every interaction as an opportunity to welcome someone into the library ecosystem and create a memorable, positive encounter.
- Unshakeable Detail-Orientation: Handling passport applications and cataloging notarial acts require precision. You possess a sharp eye for spotting errors, a methodical approach to paperwork, and a deep respect for strict regulatory standards.
- Cultural Empathy & Adaptability: You communicate clearly and warmly with individuals from all walks of life. Bilingual fluency (English/Spanish or other languages) is highly preferred to help us connect with our diverse community.
- Cool Under Pressure: When the library gets busy and the lines grow long, you maintain your poise, your smile, and your focus on accuracy.
Travel Documents Required (Minimum Qualifications)
- Education & Experience: A Bachelor’s degree is preferred, paired with two years of related customer service experience (or an equivalent mix of education and front-facing service experience).
- Federal passport acceptance agent requirements:
- Age & Citizenship: Must be at least 18 years old and a US citizen or national (proof of citizenship required).
- Clear Horizon: Must not be under indictment, on parole, or previously convicted of crimes of breach of trust or moral turpitude.
- Reliable Transit: Reliable transportation to regularly perform work across various branch locations or off-site events as scheduled.
Post-Hire Checkpoints (Required within 90 days of hire):
- Certified US Passport Agent (approved by the Department of State).
- Registered New Jersey Notary Public (must pass the NJNP test).
What’s In It For You? (The Perks)
We believe in taking care of the people who take care of our communities. Here is how you will benefit from joining the SCLSNJ team:
- Work with a Purpose: You will see the immediate, positive impact of your helpful service every single day.
- Earned Time Off: Accumulate Earned Sick Leave as part of your flexible routine.
- Invested in Your Future: Secure your long-term goals with enrollment in the NJ State Defined Contribution Retirement Plan (DCRP).
- Schedule & Hours: Up to 20 hours per week. Since the library is open days and evenings, a flexible schedule is required, including evening shifts, 3 Saturdays/month,and occasional Sundays and holidays.
- Include Job ID: 2026-22 with a resume, cover letter, and SCLSNJ application for consideration. Email: Human Resources - jobs@sclibnj.org
Somerset County Library System of New Jersey is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
Pay: $22.47 per hour
Benefits:
- Employee assistance program
- Flexible schedule
Work Location: In person
Salary : $22