LAC Federal is seeking a highly skilled Metadata Specialist to join a team dedicated to enhancing the discoverability and accessibility of one of the largest biomedical and health sciences collections in the world. This role is integral to a multi-phase project aimed at addressing significant processing arrearages through both traditional cataloging and cutting-edge AI/ML technologies.
Key Responsibilities:
Metadata Creation and Management:
- Develop and enhance metadata for a diverse range of library and archival materials, including monographs, serials, rare books, manuscripts, audiovisual materials, and digital collections.
- Apply appropriate metadata standards (e.g., MARC, Dublin Core, EAD, MODS) and classification schemes (e.g., LCC, MeSH) to ensure accurate and comprehensive description of collection materials.
- Collaborate with catalogers, archivists, and other technical staff to create and refine bibliographic records, ensuring consistency and alignment with institutional guidelines.
AI/ML Integration:
- Collaborate with the AI/ML team to develop and test tools designed to automate and expedite metadata creation.
- Assist in training AI/ML models by providing expertise in metadata standards and cataloging practices.
- Evaluate the effectiveness of AI-generated metadata and contribute to the refinement of these tools to improve accuracy and efficiency.
Quality Assurance and Control:
- Conduct quality assurance reviews of metadata records, ensuring accuracy, completeness, and adherence to institutional and industry standards.
- Identify and rectify metadata discrepancies and inconsistencies in the existing catalog and archival descriptions.
- Provide expertise in the enhancement of existing metadata to improve searchability and accessibility of the collection.
Project Coordination and Collaboration:
- Work closely with the Project Coordinator and other team members to develop and implement work plans for the cataloging and description of unprocessed materials.
- Participate in project meetings, providing updates on progress and challenges related to metadata creation and management.
- Engage with stakeholders to understand project goals, requirements, and desired outcomes, ensuring that metadata practices align with the broader objectives of the project.
Documentation and Reporting:
- Maintain detailed records of metadata creation activities, including processes, standards applied, and issues encountered.
- Prepare reports on metadata creation progress, challenges, and the effectiveness of AI/ML tools for internal and external stakeholders.
Requirements
Education and Experience:
- Master’s degree in Library and Information Science (MLIS) or a related field with a focus on metadata, cataloging, or archival studies.
- Minimum of 3-5 years of experience in metadata creation and management, preferably in a large academic or research library setting.
- Experience with AI/ML technologies in the context of metadata creation is highly desirable.
Technical Skills:
- Proficiency in metadata standards and schema (e.g., MARC, EAD, Dublin Core).
- Familiarity with cataloging tools and systems (e.g., OCLC Connexion, ILS/LMS systems).
- Experience with AI/ML tools and methodologies as applied to metadata creation and cataloging.
Interpersonal Skills:
- Strong communication and collaboration skills, with the ability to work effectively in a team environment.
- Detail-oriented with a commitment to accuracy and quality in metadata creation.
Benefits
- Health Care Plan (Medical, Dental & Vision)
- Retirement Plan (401k, IRA)
- Life Insurance (Basic, Voluntary & AD&D)
- Paid Time Off (Vacation, Sick & Public Holidays)
- Family Leave (Maternity, Paternity)
- Short Term & Long Term Disability
- Training & Development
- Wellness Resources
