Digital Asset Metadata Specialist

Job Description

Under the direction of the Digital Collections Librarian, the Metadata Specialist will work as part of cross-functional teams to support the library’s digital collections initiatives. This position assists in planning, coordinating, and evaluating cataloging and metadata processes for the digital library. Responsibilities include original and enhancing copy cataloging of diverse materials, such as images, books, journals, manuscripts, maps, and other formats. The successful candidate will also contribute to quality control, workflow optimization, and promotion of collections and requires a candidate with a strong cataloging background, driven by a passion for continuous learning, with the ability to integrate new technologies and innovative practices into the cataloging workflow.

The position is contingent on funding availability and has current support of 6-9 months from hire date.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree
• Working experience with applying cataloging and metadata standards, including RDA, Library of Congress Subject Headings (LCSH), Dublin Core, EAD, MODS, or METS.
• Working experience creating and managing metadata for digital collections.
• Knowledge and practical experience with digital formats (e.g., image, audio, video, object, text) and best practices for ensuring accessible online delivery.
• Strong ommunication skills.
• Demonstrated experience working both independently and collaboratively as part of a team.
• Proven experience with current and emerging trends in cataloging and metadata practices.

Preferred Qualifications

• Master’s degree in Library and Information Science from an ALA-accredited program or equivalent experience.
• Proven experience in supervising and training staff or students.
• Professional experience in academic archives, libraries, or museum environments.
• Knowledge of archival processing techniques and research methodologies.
• Familiarity with digital asset management systems (DAMS) and batch editing tools like OpenRefine
• Demonstrated expertise in improving the accessibility of online materials, including websites or digital humanities projects.

Pay Band

4

Appointment Type

Restricted, Part-time wage for 6-9 months

Salary Information

$20.63/hr

Review Date

2/6/25

Additional Information

• The successful candidate will be required to have a criminal conviction check.
• Work schedule: 20-30 hours per week. Must be able to work during school breaks and summer. Hours to be worked between 8:00am-5:00pm M-F. Remote option available for the right individual.

The University Libraries at Virginia Tech is committed to building a culturally diverse community and strongly encourages applications from women and minorities. We are committed to mentoring and establishing safe spaces, both physical and virtual, where employees from current and historically minoritized groups can thrive.

The members of the University Libraries at Virginia Tech strive individually and collectively to create, sustain, and share inclusive ways of knowing in conscientious community with each other and all the people we serve in every space we shape. In keeping with our Aspirational Identity and the Virginia Tech Principles of Community, the University Libraries commits to build and maintain enduring climates of mutual care, respect, and responsibility.

About Virginia Tech

Dedicated to its motto, Ut Prosim (That I May Serve), Virginia Tech pushes the boundaries of knowledge by taking a hands-on, transdisciplinary approach to preparing scholars to be leaders and problem-solvers. A comprehensive land-grant institution that enhances the quality of life in Virginia and throughout the world, Virginia Tech is an inclusive community dedicated to knowledge, discovery, and creativity. The university offers more than 280 majors to a diverse enrollment of more than 36,000 undergraduate, graduate, and professional students in eight undergraduate colleges, a school of medicine, a veterinary medicine college, Graduate School, and Honors College. The university has a significant presence across Virginia, including the Innovation Campus in Northern Virginia; the Health Sciences and Technology Campus in Roanoke; sites in Newport News and Richmond; and numerous Extension offices and research centers. A leading global research institution, Virginia Tech conducts more than $500 million in research annually.

Virginia Tech endorses and encourages participation in professional development opportunities and university shared governance. These valuable contributions to university shared governance provide important representation and perspective, along with opportunities for unique and impactful professional development.

Virginia Tech does not discriminate against employees, students, or applicants on the basis of age, color, disability, sex (including pregnancy), gender, gender identity, gender expression, genetic information, ethnicity or national origin, political affiliation, race, religion, sexual orientation, or military status, or otherwise discriminate against employees or applicants who inquire about, discuss, or disclose their compensation or the compensation of other employees or applicants, or on any other basis protected by law.

If you are an individual with a disability and desire an accommodation, please contact Rebecca Osborne at rebeccaao@vt.edu during regular business hours at least 10 business days prior to the event.