Metadata Quality Assurance Associate (Library Assistant III), MIT Libraries, Boston, MA

Posted October 17, 2022

Description:

Perform quality control of bibliographic utility and vendor source records
loaded into our Alma library services platform for library materials in all formats, including
electronic and print, following local and national standards.

Specific duties include:

Metadata Quality Control (80%)
● Resolve complex bibliographic and record holding issues, and establish authorized
headings.
● Identify, prioritize, and perform post-cataloging bibliographic problem resolution.
● Load metadata records into Alma for record sets, for authorities enrichment, and other
batch record upgrades.
● In consultation with the Metadata Systems Librarian, take a lead role in facilitating
database quality assurance projects, training and directing the work of students and
others, collaborating with colleagues, and tracking and reporting progress.
● Participate in the testing of cataloging subsystem upgrades and bug fixes and in the
analysis of test results.
● Respond to reported problems with discovery and access of library collections, as part of
the “catprob” team.
● Support metadata production and management in our digital repository (DSpace@MIT)
● Adopt new technologies, ideas, and tools for metadata management as they arise.

Departmental Participation (20%)
● Participate in department meetings and discussions and may contribute to various
projects and initiatives across the MIT Libraries.
● Attend training for new systems, procedures or applications to keep current with the
needs of the MIT Libraries. Utilize other available training options to continually develop
skills.
● Participate in group processes to standardize, document, and maximize efficiencies in
team workflows, establish team goals, collectively problem-solve, and coordinate
activities and projects.
● Contribute to the creation, review, and revision of documentation of procedures and
policies for team operations.
● Liaise with the Department of Distinctive Collections (DDC) to maintain standards of
preservation of materials and resolve any resulting issues.

QUALIFICATIONS:

Required:
● A high school diploma or equivalent is required, and a minimum 2 years of relevant
experience in library metadata services
● Familiarity with Cataloging rules and practices (RDA, etc.), Library of Congress
Classification and Subject Headings, and Integrated Library System (ILS) and/or Library
Services Platform (LSP) basics.
● Enthusiasm for and commitment to embracing the empathy, courage, self-reflection, and
respect essential in a multicultural, diverse, and inclusive workplace, and the ability to
embrace those values in collections and public service work.
● Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
● Interest and affinity for learning, understanding, and effectively using new software and
technology.
● Aptitude for accurate, detailed, and quantitative work.
● Strong organizational, analytical and problem-solving skills, including ability to identify
problems and carry out solutions independently or in collaboration with others.
● Demonstrated ability to manage competing priorities and work with minimal supervision.
● Positive service attitude and excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with
proven ability to work as an integral part of a service team and to interact effectively with
a variety of people.
● Demonstrated initiative and flexibility for successfully adapting and working creatively in
a dynamic environment.
Preferred:
● Bachelor’s Degree
● Experience using OCLC Connexion, encoding standards, and Ex Libris’ Alma Library
Services Platform
● Ability to work with productivity/scripting tools that can help with metadata production,
such as: MacroExpress, OCLC macro language, OpenRefine, Python, Alma “drules”,
etc.
● Experience and/or familiarity with descriptive cataloging of special formats, including
serials and music.
● Experience with acquisitions workflows and/or software.

HOURS: 35 hours per week. Monday-Friday 9 am – 5 pm; hours may change based on
business needs and MIT’s academic calendar.
HOURLY RATE AND BENEFITS: This job is a Pay Grade 5 with the following hourly
range (min-mid max): 21.72/hr, 29.46/hr, 37.15/hr.

How to Apply:

Apply online at: https://hr.mit.edu/careers applications must include
cover letter and resume. Priority will be given to applications received before October 21st,
2022; position open until filled.