Metadata Assistant (on-site)
About The Position
Under the direction of the Head of Cataloging, the Metadata Assistant catalogs library materials in any format through original and copy cataloging, classification, bibliographic maintenance, and authority verification. The role also trains and supervises cataloging students and assists with training and supervising part-time cataloging staff. The assistant helps plan and implement collection management projects, including weeding and processing withdrawn materials, maintains current awareness of cataloging standards and practices, and participates in special projects as needed. The position performs bibliographic control duties, uses Alma Analytics for reports and statistical analysis, resolves cataloging and materials-processing problems, and assists with database maintenance and cleanup. In coordination with Collections and Digital Services staff, the assistant helps establish bibliographic control practices and workflows, investigate solutions, and design and implement batch processes for record loading and updating. The role also supports collection maintenance across university library collections, updates OCLC bibliographic databases, and identifies emerging trends and standards in cataloging, metadata, discovery, and user behavior. The Metadata Assistant works in a supportive, collegial culture that encourages skills training, professional development, workshops, committee membership, and engagement in programs supporting the Library’s mission and inclusion, diversity, equity, and accessibility goals.
Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree.
- At least 1–2 years of experience working in library technical services, including cataloging.
- Knowledge of OCLC, I-Share, MARC format, RDA, Library of Congress Subject Headings, and Dewey classification.
- Experience and willingness to work with automated library systems, bibliographic utilities, and batch-processing tools for metadata, including OCLC, Alma, and MARCEdit.
- Library Science coursework.
- Demonstrated ability to communicate and interact effectively with people across cultural identities and foster an inclusive, equitable, and welcoming environment.
Responsibilities
- Perform original and copy cataloging, classification, bibliographic maintenance, and authority verification for library materials in any format.
- Use Alma Analytics to produce reports and conduct statistical analysis.
- Resolve cataloging and materials-processing problems and assist with database maintenance and cleanup.
- Help establish bibliographic control best practices and workflows, investigate solutions for bibliographic control, and design and implement batch processes for loading and updating records.
- Participate in collection maintenance in consultation with library staff and departments as needed.
- Assist in planning and implementing collection maintenance projects, including collection weeding and processing withdrawn materials.
- Update OCLC bibliographic databases to maintain accurate bibliographic and holdings information.
- Hire, train, and/or supervise student and part-time cataloging assistants performing bibliographic maintenance, physical processing, and other assigned projects.
- Identify and evaluate emerging trends, practices, and standards in cataloging, metadata, discovery, and user behavior, and share knowledge with relevant staff and colleagues.
- Participate in planning and implementing special projects as needed.
Benefits
- Medical, dental, and vision benefits.
- Retirement plan with an 8% matching contribution.
- Tuition waivers for employees and dependents.
- Paid time off, sick time, holidays, and floating holidays.
Stand Out From the Crowd
Upload your resume and get instant feedback on how well it matches this job.
What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Entry Level
