Rice University is seeking a dynamic, service-oriented Metadata Coordinator who will provide leadership in evaluation and application of current and emerging metadata standards.  This position will expand use of non-MARC metadata schemas for content description and access, collaborating with others on local and regional digital projects as appropriate.  In addition, the Metadata Coordinator provides training or technical advice to library staff regarding resource description and metadata assignment. This position serves as a primary resource person for the library on metadata practice,  providing significant input on relevant policies and procedures.  The position reports to the Head of Cataloging and Metadata Services Department in Technical Services.  The Department includes 6 exempt, 5 non-exempt, and 3 part-time temporary staff, plus student workers. 

Responsibilities:  Provides leadership in a team environment with other staff to evaluate and apply appropriate metadata schemas to provide description and access to various digital projects of the Library and Rice University.  Responsible for associated authority and quality control.  Assists in development and ongoing review of local policies and procedures for such applications.  Stays up-to-date with national metadata standards and schemas and is responsible for interpreting and adapting those for local purposes.  Acts as liaison for metadata projects with other departments within the library and/or other campus groups and individuals.  Provides training or technical advice to library staff regarding resource description and metadata assignment.

Assists and/or manages special cataloging projects undertaken by the Department as assigned by the Department Head. May lead project staff.  Participates in departmental and library-wide committees and work groups established to further various aspects of the Fondren Library mission.  Assists in other cataloging activities as needed.   

Requirements:  ALA-accredited Master's degree in Library Science; two years of related experience specializing in metadata or cataloging.  Successful project management experience.  Excellent oral and written communication skills; project management skills; proven ability to solve problems; leadership and training skills and an ability to reach consensus with diverse constituencies; ability to recommend solutions in areas not under direct supervision; flexibility in performing different tasks as library needs change; commitment to enhancing services through teamwork; ability to prioritize work to ensure that departmental and library goals are realized; demonstrated commitment to staff development and continuing education; ability to work without close supervision; thorough knowledge of MARC and non-MARC metadata standards and practices (e.g. Dublin Core, EAD, TEI, MODS, METS, OAI, etc.) and demonstrated knowledge of current and emerging metadata practices and procedures; thorough knowledge of institutional repository platforms, preferably DSpace; knowledge of OCLC and vendor services; knowledge of integrated library systems, preferably Sirsi.

Preferred qualifications:  Experience as a librarian in an academic library.  Familiarity with DSpace.

Salary & benefits:  $52,000 minimum, with hiring salary commensurate with experience and qualifications; no state or local income tax; 21 benefit days; 8 study days; a range of retirement options including TIAA/CREF; health and life insurance; and tuition waiver.

Environment:  Rice University provides a stimulating work environment, with opportunities to participate in the delivery of innovative library services supported by leading edge technologies.  Fondren Library (http://library.rice.edu/) is a research library with over 2.8 million volumes and over 140,000 serial subscriptions.  The Library has a state-of-the-art offsite shelving facility and completed a major building renovation project in 2006.  An active program of digital resource development and delivery is underway.   

Houston is a vibrant, multicultural city, with world-class visual and performing arts ranging from the traditional to the avant-garde. The fourth largest city in the country, Houston enjoys a moderate cost of living and easy proximity to the Gulf Coast. 

For more information, see: 

http://www.explore.rice.edu/explore/General_Information.asp

http://www.visithoustontexas.com/media/neighborhoods

Applications received by February 11, 2014 will receive first consideration.  Please apply with cover letter, resume, and the names, titles, addresses, telephone numbers, and e-mail addresses of three references at: https://jobs.rice.edu/applicants/Central?quickFind=54055.  Inquiries:  Melinda Reagor Flannery, Assistant University Librarian/Search Coordinator at (713) 348-3773 or e-mail [log in to unmask].  Rice University is an affirmative-action, equal-opportunity employer.