Cataloguing and Metadata Librarian (2 year contract)

The University of Waterloo Library is seeking two Cataloguing and Metadata Librarians for 2-year contract positions. Reporting to the Head, Cataloguing and Metadata Services, the incumbents will play a key role in the investigation and application of metadata standards at the University of Waterloo. As a specialist, the Cataloguing and Metadata Librarian will provide expertise on bibliographic description, database maintenance/enhancement, and the application of new technology and metadata formats. In addition to theoretical knowledge, they provide leadership to a team of colleagues, who perform original and derived cataloguing; update the library database; and manage the physical processing and flow of material. The Cataloguing and Metadata librarian supports the department by providing training, feedback, developing procedural documentation, and giving guidance on emerging technologies and standards. The Cataloguing and Metadata Librarian enables the discovery and access to unique and complex resources through the creation, maintenance, and management of bibliographic records and related inventory. As a metadata expert, they will consult and collaborate with other library units, campus partners, and across institutions within a consortial environment.

The Metadata and Cataloguing Services Department is hiring two Cataloguing and Metadata Librarians who work together closely and are each responsible for one of the following portfolios:

  1. Descriptive Cataloguing
  • Oversee a team of Cataloguing Associates who perform original cataloguing on physical and electronic resources, including subject analysis, and classification and the creation and maintenance of authority records
  • Address complex cataloguing decisions by using sound judgement to apply descriptive cataloguing rules
  • Develop internal and consortial, policy for metadata and cataloguing practices
  1. Record and Material Maintenance
  • Oversee a team who perform Derived Cataloguing and database maintenance activities such as the addition, updating, and withdrawal of material
  • Oversee the physical flow of material in the department, including physical processing of catalogued items
  • Develop projects and workflows for database clean up and inventory maintenance

The University of Waterloo library is the campus's partner in learning, research and innovation. It has two main campus locations plus three satellite locations to meet the diverse needs of our community. The University was built for change and the Library’s agility allows us to continuously transform approaches to creating, discovering, using, sharing and preserving information. We equip researchers and students with critical research skills – while committing to open and equitable access to information – to empower our campus community to improve our world as active citizens, creative problem solvers and agile leaders. Our work is done with a strong commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion (EDI).

The Library supports many campus priorities including student wellness, sustainability, and the development of Indigenous initiatives, recognizing the responsibility of truth and reconciliation as outlined in the 94 Calls To Action.
 

The University of Waterloo Library is a member of the Ontario Council of University Libraries (OCUL), the Canadian Association of Research Libraries (CARL), the Association of Research Libraries (ARL), and the Coalition for Networked Information (CNI). The Library is transitioning towards enhanced collaboration on a shared library platform through the OCUL Collaborative Futures project.

We welcome interested candidates to connect directly with Johanna Whitson, Head, Metadata and Cataloguing Services to learn more about this exciting position. Johanna may be reached at +1-519-888-4567 ext. 40057 or by email at j2whitso@uwaterloo.ca

To ensure consideration for this opportunity, please apply by August 8th, 2022

Qualifications

  • A Master’s degree in library information studies from an ALA- accredited or equivalent institution
  • Demonstrated descriptive metadata expertise, including MARC/RDA, subject analysis, controlled vocabulary, and classification, and an awareness of the importance of ethics in metadata creation
  • Working knowledge of current cataloguing principles and standards as defined in FRBR, RDA, and MARC formats, as well as an understanding of emerging standards, such as, the principles of linked data
  • Demonstrated commitment to continued learning and growth, including the ability to develop expertise in the field of metadata and cataloguing, and act as a resource to the department and library community
  • Awareness of technologies, such analytic reports and bulk editing tools, and how they can be effectively applied to workflows
  • Demonstrated commitment to treating others with respect, kindness, and inclusivity, and the ability to build a supportive work environment
  • Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to oversee complex, detail-oriented work, and an aptitude for applying creative solutions
  • Ability to assess processes, create documentation for metadata standards, and implement new practices
  • Demonstrated ability to support staff success through providing coaching, training, and identifying opportunities for their growth
  • Time management skills, and the ability to balance multiple responsibilities, and adjust according to changing priorities
  • Asset: experience with metadata application profiles

Compensation

The salary for this position will be commensurate with experience and qualification within the USG 10-13 salary level. Hiring range: $ 69,405 – 112,436  based on 2022/2023 salary scales

Work environment: This is a hybrid workplace, with some work that requires being on campus, and the ability to work from home some of the time

We welcome interested candidates to connect directly with Johanna Whitson, Head, Cataloguing and Metadata Services, to learn more about this exciting position. Johanna may be reached at +1-519-888-4567 ext. 40057 or by email at j2whitso@uwaterloo.ca

Deadlines for applications: For assured consideration, applications should be received by August 8, 2022.

Job openings are posted until the position has been filled. Due to the number of applications received, only applicants who are selected for an interview will be contacted. If you have a preference between the two advertised portfolios please specify in your application.

For more information about this job and to apply: go to external opportunities at Careers at Waterloo.

The University of Waterloo is committed to implementing the Calls to Action framed by the Truth and Reconciliation Commission. We acknowledge that we live and work on the traditional territory of the Neutral, Anishinaabeg and Haudenosaunee peoples. The University of Waterloo is situated on the Haldimand Tract, the land granted to the Six Nations that includes six miles on each side of the Grand River.

The University values the diverse and intersectional identities of its students, faculty, and staff. The University regards equity and diversity as an integral part of academic excellence and is committed to accessibility for all employees. The University of Waterloo seeks applicants who embrace our values of equity, anti-racism and inclusion.  As such, we encourage applications from candidates who have been historically disadvantaged and marginalized, including applicants who identify as First Nations, Métis and/or Inuit/Inuk, Black, racialized, a person with a disability, women and/or 2SLGBTQ+.

All qualified candidates are encouraged to apply; however, Canadians and permanent residents will be given priority.

The University of Waterloo is committed to accessibility for persons with disabilities. If you have any application, interview, or workplace accommodation requests, please contact Human Resources at hrhelp@uwaterloo.ca or 519-888-4567, ext. 45935.

About the University of Waterloo

Waterloo has spawned thousands of commercial and social enterprises, is home to the world's largest co-operative education program and boasts a uniquely entrepreneurial culture that encourages experimentation and risk-taking.  The result is an outstanding learning and research experience for more than 36,000 undergraduate and graduate students in Waterloo, Ontario, Canada — the anchor of Canada’s innovation corridor.

University of Waterloo — Canada’s top innovation university — is a research powerhouse and the engine of one of the world’s leading startup ecosystems. Offering world-class scholarship and research, combined with unparalleled experience-based education, Waterloo builds a better future for Canada and the world by championing innovation and collaboration to create solutions relevant to the needs of today and tomorrow.

For more information about Waterloo, please visit uwaterloo.ca.