Metadata Management Library Assistant, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA

Posted August 18, 2016

As a member of the Metadata Management section, the Metadata Management Library Assistant will contribute to quality control, database integrity and metadata enrichment through batch processes;  implementation of automated data loads supporting access and discovery of print and electronic resources, in collaboration with technical services staff and vendors; and supporting assessment activities by compiling, analyzing and visualizing statistics.  Additional duties will focus on technology-focused innovative or experimental projects, including developing, supporting and troubleshooting scripts and workflow processes, manipulating reports from disparate data sources, and error analysis and correction.
 
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Contributes to and supports database management and automated authority control:​
  • by processing vendor reports and packaging data for efficient distribution to colleagues for complex problem resolution and identity management activities
  • by triaging, evaluating and resolving service request tickets (Footprints, Aleph Trigger reports, HathiTrust and Google Books error reports, etc.)
  • by working on output reports generated by special projects (reconciliation and data migration projects, etc.)
• Participates in metadata enrichment and correction, adapting, harvesting, manipulating or transforming existing sources of metadata whenever possible to aid patron discovery of Harvard Library collections
• Analyzes data, researches methodologies and assesses technical feasibility to create, adapt and implement productivity tools or services that contribute to quality control and support of core technical services activities:
  • Assists in analyzing, testing, and implementing library system data loads and enhancements; assists in configuring library software to meet functional requirements
  • Contributes to documentation and communication regarding status of projects
  • Assists in troubleshooting and supporting technical components of batch processes for Harvard Library
• Manipulates Cognos output and other data sources to inform decision making, present departmental accomplishments and contribute to assessment
• Develops documentation and training in order to increase access to tools and elevate the technical ability of staff to utilize tools effectively
• May contribute to modifying vendor-submitted ebook record files to meet Harvard cataloging standards and run perl scripts to load ebook purchases, working within a structured framework of testing and peer review prior to implementing loads
• Contributes to Metadata Management team projects

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS

• Experience with scripting for manipulating data or creating automated processes
• Basic working knowledge of applications and programming languages such as OpenRefine, Python, and text processing
• Familiarity with UNIX command line processes
• Demonstrated facility with technology and a working knowledge of Microsoft Office applications (Excel, Access)
• Demonstrated ability to package and present data for effective analysis
• Experience creating documentation and delivering content verbally to individuals and groups for training and information sharing
• Knowledge of MARC and prior cataloging and/or database management experience
• Demonstrated knowledge of wikis and cloud-based applications such as Google docs
• Prior experience in a library technical services environment
• Demonstrated aptitude for technical analysis and problem solving

ADDITIONAL QUALIFICATIONS

• Experience with Aleph ILS, including experience troubleshooting loading batch files preferred
• Experience with markup languages and tools that manipulate library data, such as MARCedit, desirable
• Ability to use technology in creative ways to solve problems or facilitate workflow
• Detail oriented and ability to work with a high degree of accuracy
• Strong organizational skills and ability to meet project deadlines
• Demonstrated ability to collaborate as well as work well independently
• Highly motivated and engaged with a strong customer service/support focus

To learn more or apply for these roles, please visit: http://hr.harvard.edu/search-jobs

Enter in the Auto Req ID Field:  40168BR (Metadata Management Library Assistant)