Metadata Specialist - Library Systems & Services

LAC Federal is seeking a highly skilled Metadata Specialist to join a team dedicated to enhancing the discoverability and accessibility of one of the largest biomedical and health sciences collections in the world. This role is integral to a multi-phase project aimed at addressing significant processing arrearages through both traditional cataloging and cutting-edge AI/ML technologies.

Key Responsibilities:

Metadata Creation and Management:

• Develop and enhance metadata for a diverse range of library and archival materials, including monographs, serials, rare books, manuscripts, audiovisual materials, and digital collections.
• Apply appropriate metadata standards (e.g., MARC, Dublin Core, EAD, MODS) and classification schemes (e.g., LCC, MeSH) to ensure accurate and comprehensive description of collection materials.
• Collaborate with catalogers, archivists, and other technical staff to create and refine bibliographic records, ensuring consistency and alignment with institutional guidelines.

AI/ML Integration:

• Collaborate with the AI/ML team to develop and test tools designed to automate and expedite metadata creation.
• Assist in training AI/ML models by providing expertise in metadata standards and cataloging practices.
• Evaluate the effectiveness of AI-generated metadata and contribute to the refinement of these tools to improve accuracy and efficiency.

Quality Assurance and Control:

• Conduct quality assurance reviews of metadata records, ensuring accuracy, completeness, and adherence to institutional and industry standards.
• Identify and rectify metadata discrepancies and inconsistencies in the existing catalog and archival descriptions.
• Provide expertise in the enhancement of existing metadata to improve searchability and accessibility of the collection.

Project Coordination and Collaboration:

• Work closely with the Project Coordinator and other team members to develop and implement work plans for the cataloging and description of unprocessed materials.
• Participate in project meetings, providing updates on progress and challenges related to metadata creation and management.
• Engage with stakeholders to understand project goals, requirements, and desired outcomes, ensuring that metadata practices align with the broader objectives of the project.

Documentation and Reporting:

• Maintain detailed records of metadata creation activities, including processes, standards applied, and issues encountered.
• Prepare reports on metadata creation progress, challenges, and the effectiveness of AI/ML tools for internal and external stakeholders.

Requirements

Education and Experience:

• Master’s degree in Library and Information Science (MLIS) or a related field with a focus on metadata, cataloging, or archival studies.
• Minimum of 3-5 years of experience in metadata creation and management, preferably in a large academic or research library setting.
• Experience with AI/ML technologies in the context of metadata creation is highly desirable.

Technical Skills:

• Proficiency in metadata standards and schema (e.g., MARC, EAD, Dublin Core).
• Familiarity with cataloging tools and systems (e.g., OCLC Connexion, ILS/LMS systems).
• Experience with AI/ML tools and methodologies as applied to metadata creation and cataloging.

Interpersonal Skills:

• Strong communication and collaboration skills, with the ability to work effectively in a team environment.
• Detail-oriented with a commitment to accuracy and quality in metadata creation.

Benefits

• Health Care Plan (Medical, Dental & Vision)
• Retirement Plan (401k, IRA)
• Life Insurance (Basic, Voluntary & AD&D)
• Paid Time Off (Vacation, Sick & Public Holidays)
• Family Leave (Maternity, Paternity)
• Short Term & Long Term Disability
• Training & Development
• Wellness Resources