Geospatial Data Technical Assistant, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA
Posted April 1, 2016
As a member of the Geospatial unit of the Metadata Management Section of ITS, under the supervision of the Geospatial Metadata Librarian, the incumbent provides timely access to Harvard Library collections by performing data processing and metadata production work for digital geospatial resources in multiple formats and languages. These data include vector layers of all scales, raster data, and scanned paper maps from the Harvard Map Collection.
- Processes Geographic Information Systems (GIS) data from its native format/projection to a format/projection compatible with the Harvard Geospatial Library (HGL).
- Loads data into the HGL database using the most appropriate GIS application.
- Georeferences images of historic maps to real-world coordinates by researching the source projection of the paper map and customizing the software applications to create a georeferencing scheme that is as accurate as possible.
- Collaborates with and supports the Geospatial Metadata Librarian to generate standards compliant metadata for discovery
- Assists with the creation of original and derivative Federal Geographic Data Committee (FGDC)-compliant metadata records for GIS data layers for the HGL.
- Performs quality assurance and quality control measures on HGL metadata records to ensure that records comply with community standards and local metadata practices (e.g. ensuring controlled vocabulary terms are used for theme keywords, data creators, and place name keywords; validating the XML structure of finished metadata, etc.).
- Assists with overseeing student employees’ activities relating to the production of geospatial metadata, including training, scheduling, and supervision.
- Coordinates workflow for the creation of Aleph MARC holding records for digital versions of data sets following RDA/AACR2 and MARC standards and local practices.
- Participates as a member of the HGL production team by contributing to discussions of workflow management, data loading, and system development.
- Assists the GIS team in the Harvard Map Collection with projects involving the creation or delivery of GIS data of all kinds, including georeferenced images of paper maps
- Collaborates with Map Collection staff to prioritize work, as well as to develop work processes and quality standards that meet the needs of the Map Collection.
- Works according to changing daily priorities, demonstrates flexibility and ability to shift between multiple tasks effectively
- Contributes to the overall goals of the Department as appropriate
Basic Qualifications
- High School diploma or equivalent required
- Knowledge of the use of Esri desktop GIS software products: ArcMap, ArcCatalog, ArcToolbox, ArcSDE is required
- Demonstrated basic knowledge of Geographic Information Systems (GIS), including use of related software and technologies.
- Experience using GIS in an analytical or data warehouse setting as well as an understanding of map projections and parameters is required.
- Understanding of database management system concepts required.
- Proficiency with Microsoft Windows operating system and Windows software, especially Excel, required.
- Demonstrated experience using technology to perform daily tasks.
- Demonstrated facility with automated systems, including using online databases, working with spreadsheets and knowledge of file management techniques.
- Must have excellent organizational, written communication and analytic skills.
Additional Qualifications
- College degree preferred.
- Previous library or related work experience preferred, including demonstrated skills in using existing metadata standards for the creation of descriptive metadata in an XML-based environment.
- Knowledge and experience in applying controlled vocabularies to describe information resources preferred
- Basic library cataloging experience desired.
- Prior experience with hiring, training, scheduling, and the distribution of work with student or temporary staff preferred.
- Work experience in a production-oriented and technology-enhanced environment preferred.
- Excellent oral and interpersonal communication skills.
- Ability to perform routine functions with a high degree of precision, accuracy, and productivity.
- Ability to effectively solve problems.
- Ability to work productively and cooperatively in a team environment, with flexibility and versatility in an evolving work situation. In addition, the ability to work independently to perform complex tasks and meet project deadlines.
- Commitment to be part of a continuous learning environment, updating skills as required to perform job duties.
Position Link: https://jobs.brassring.com/
Apply online: hr.harvard.edu/jobs
Req: 38725BR