Metadata Librarian for Large-Scale Data Processing, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA

Posted June 12, 2015

Auto req ID: 35916BR

School/Unit: Harvard Library

Department: Harvard Libary – Information and Technical Services

Duties & Responsibilities: 

As a member of the Metadata Management section, under the supervision of the Head of Metadata Management, the incumbent facilitates timely access to Harvard Library collections by fulfilling a variety of roles that improve the Harvard Library’s use of batch processing and automation in support of electronic resources discovery, metadata enrichment, and innovations in approaches to creation of large-scale metadata. 

The position is focused in two primary areas: 1) metadata analysis, data mapping and transformations, leveraging use of non-MARC data sources to enable discovery, use of APIs to facilitate interoperability between systems, and use and reuse of metadata across schemas; and 2) coordination of dataloads by shepherding monographic e-resources MARC records through the batch review/load lifecycle. Activities include developing, supporting, troubleshooting, training and consulting as appropriate for either ongoing activities or projects.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Participates in metadata creation and enrichment projects, adapting, harvesting or manipulating existing metadata whenever possible to aid in user discovery of information resources
• Identifies and manipulates alternative data sources to enhance or generate discovery metadata through innovative means
• Coordinates the work of various participants in the e-book metadata lifecycle by prioritizing, distributing and tracking batch record review; hones infrastructure for efficient batch process including documentation and ticketing
• Manages relationships with vendors, publishers, and interface providers as they relate to provision of metadata for e-books, including problem solving, assessment, and service monitoring; ensures data integrity across platforms (e.g. Aleph/SFX)
  • Works with local standard-setting and best practices groups to define appropriate levels of quality and service requirements, including timelines
• Contributes to diverse dataload activities that support technical services operations, including acquisitions, payment and quality control; tests and implements configurations for automating acquisition functions by batch processes and collaborates with technical services staff and vendors for troubleshooting
• Develops, tests, implements, consults on, and supports tool development to support department-wide projects and enable staff to perform technical services tasks efficiently and at scale
  • May offer coding/scripting support to other Harvard Library units to create productivity aids that support quality control and workflow efficiencies 
  • Investigates and analyzes technologies to facilitate technical services activities, workflow improvements, and other related library functions
• Serves as a member of relevant committees, working groups and communities of practice, inside and outside of Harvard Library as appropriate
• Contributes to the overall goals of the department as appropriate

Basic Qualifications:

• MLS or equivalent education/experience required, plus at least two years of experience in a library technical services environment
• Experience with coding or scripting using Python, JavaScript or similar technologies; experience creating productivity tools or with desktop automation tools (such as Macro Express) required
• Knowledge of data manipulation/clean-up tools (such as MARCedit, OpenRefine) and methodologies
• Knowledge of MARC and non-MARC metadata, metadata cross-walks, character encoding and XML schema; demonstrated experience in the transformation of XML documents using XSLT
• Demonstrated working experience with UNIX command line processes and knowledge of EDI invoicing configurations
• Demonstrated success with project management

Additional Qualifications:

• Experience with analyzing, creating and documenting procedures such as service standards, policies, procedures and workflows
• Ability to use technology in creative ways to solve problems or facilitate workflow
• Must have excellent organizational, interpersonal, problem-solving and analytical skills, customer service orientation, and flexibility to adapt to changing daily priorities
• Must exhibit strong initiative and ability to prioritize and meet project deadlines
• Demonstrated success performing complex work both independently and collaboratively with a diverse group of people
• Experience with Aleph table structures and order loader functionality desirable
• Commitment to self-directed learning and development as part of a continuous learning environment
• Ability to learn and master new software, systems, and technology as required
• Ability to work productively and cooperatively in a team environment, with flexibility and versatility in an evolving work situation required

Additional Information:

In the course of 375 years, Harvard’s Library has grown from a single collection of 400 volumes to a 73-unit library system whose holdings include nearly 17 million volumes, more than 21 million digital files, 10 million microforms, 8 million photographs, and an estimated 400 million manuscript items.

For additional information visit the Harvard Library web site at: http://lib.harvard.edu/about-us

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EEO Statement: 

We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, gender identity, sexual orientation or any other characteristic protected by law.

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