Cataloging & Metadata Specialist

Under supervision of the Senior Manager of Collection Strategies and Discovery (CS&D), this position works in close consultation with the Cataloging and Metadata Librarian. The unit is responsible for cataloging newly acquired library materials, and for maintaining bibliographic and inventory records in Alma for display in the library’s discovery system, OneSearch. Materials may be monographic or serial and be presented in all formats, including electronic resources, print resources, and non-print materials. Materials may be acquired in languages other than English. This position has chief responsibility for complex cataloging of Special Collections & Archives (SCA) materials, juvenile materials and other materials requiring adaptive and original cataloging. Adaptive cataloging may include deriving new bibliographic records, enhancing existing records, reviewing authorized name headings, and assigning subject headings and call numbers. This position is also responsible for reporting collection statistics.

Required qualifications

  1. Thorough knowledge of cataloging standards and practices, including AACR2/RDA; MARC21 Format for Bibliographic Data and Authority Data; Library of Congress, Dewey and Superintendent of Documents classification schemes; and Library of Congress name and subject headings (LCNA, LCSH).
  2. Demonstrated expertise in creating and correcting bibliographic records; ability to perform original and adaptive cataloging for materials representing all levels of difficulty, in various formats and a variety of languages. Working knowledge of library collection and its organization, as well as classification schemes. Thorough knowledge of external online databases, systems, and resources, including the ability to perform complex online searches.
  3. Advanced knowledge and experience in OCLC bibliographic input standards for books, continuing resources, scores, sound recordings, visual materials, computer files, maps, and unique items. Knowledge of metadata standards and systems for digital collections.
  4. Experience with Ex Libris’ Alma and Primo systems, including the Metadata Editor and bibliographic systems jobs; experience with bibliographic and cataloging tools such as OCLC Connexion.
  5. Ability to investigate and solve complex bibliographic problems, work independently, and to exercise good judgment; take initiative, anticipate problems, and solve issues in a timely manner.
  6. Attention to detail, high accuracy, and strong organizational and problem-solving skills; excellent organizational and time management skills with the ability to set own priorities to coordinate multiple assignments with fluctuating and time-sensitive deadlines.
  7. Excellent computer skills and demonstrated ability to use a variety of standard computer applications including word-processing, spreadsheets, databases, presentation, online systems, library cataloging software, Internet, and online communication and collaboration tools to perform technical work or assist patrons, with the ability to create and manipulate data forms pertinent to resource description; demonstrated ability to compile and present information in an organized manner.
  8. Demonstrated ability to initiate, establish, and foster communication and teamwork by maintaining a positive, cooperative, productive work atmosphere in and outside the University with the ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships within a diverse population and with those from various cultural backgrounds.
  9. Ability to effectively provide lead work direction and training to student workers and an understanding of employment and payroll procedures related to student workers.
  10. Working knowledge of, or ability to quickly learn, University infrastructure, policies, and procedures.
  11. Ability to interpret the library unit’s policies and procedures and apply them accurately in performing work functions, as well as the ability to evaluate procedures and recommend changes; working knowledge of institutional and library policies and practices associated with the ethical use of and access to library and online resources.
  12. Demonstrated proficiency in English grammar, punctuation, and spelling, including the ability to clearly communicate verbally and in writing.

Preferred qualifications

  1. Associate’s level degree, library technician certificate, or equivalent education.
  2. Experience working in a technical services unit of an academic library.
  3. Bibliographic knowledge sufficient for cataloging of non-English language materials.
  4. Working knowledge of BIBFRAME and linked data; Descriptive Cataloging of Rare Materials (books) (DCRM(B)); LCSH companion vocabularies such as Homosaurus; CONSER; DACS; and Dublin Core.
  5. Experience working with Ex Libris’ Alma Analytics, import profiles, normalization rules, and indication rules.
  6. Experience with cataloging tools including RDA Toolkit, Classification Web Plus and MarcEdit.
  7. Experience with or understanding of applying authority control principles.

How to apply

For more information and to apply, please visit: Here

About Kennedy Library

Kennedy Library is responsible for planning, implementing, and managing campus-wide information resources and related services. Integrating traditional library resources and services with digital tools, the Robert E. Kennedy Library continuously adapts its services, programs, and spaces to meet the evolving academic programs, research interests, and needs of the university community.  Providing Access to information resources, classrooms, computer labs, an expansive 24-hour space, and an array of group and individual study spaces, Kennedy Library is a magnet for students and faculty alike.
Annual visitors exceed 1.5 million.

About Cal Poly

Cal Poly is a nationally-ranked public university located in San Luis Obispo, California, and known for its Learn by Doing philosophy. Each year more than 20,000 top-tier students come to San Luis Obispo to put knowledge into action, taking their learning outside the classroom as they prepare for careers in engineering, agriculture, science, business, humanities and the built environment. Cal Poly’s hands-on philosophy, small class sizes and close student-faculty mentorships result in graduates ready from day one to impact their communities, California and the world. For more information, visit calpoly.edu.

Diversity Statement

At Cal Poly, we believe that cultivating an environment that embraces and promotes diversity is fundamental to the success of our students, our employees and our community. Bringing people together from different backgrounds, experiences and value systems fosters the innovative and creative thinking that exemplifies Cal Poly’s values of free inquiry, cultural and intellectual diversity, mutual respect, civic engagement, and social and environmental responsibility.

Cal Poly’s commitment to diversity informs our efforts in recruitment, hiring and retention. Cal Poly is an equal opportunity employer.

About SLO

Cal Poly’s location in San Luis Obispo makes it one of the best places to visit.  It’s a quintessential coastal California town with some 43,000 residents.  Located halfway between San Francisco and Los Angeles and just minutes from beaches, state parks, landmarks and premium wine regions, it’s a popular vacation spot.  Sunset magazine has called it the most Californian place in all of California.

The city of San Luis Obispo offers a historic, restored downtown full of restaurants, theatres, art galleries and shops centered around San Luis Obispo Creek, Mission San Luis Obispo and mission Plaza.   San Luis Obispo’s Thursday night Farmer’s Market on Higuera Street has become a model for cities around the state.  It’s a mix of fresh produce and flowers, baked goods, restaurant fare and free music all within strolling distance.

San Luis Obispo is just minutes from some of California’s best beaches and original beach cities: Avila Beach (10 miles). Pismo Beach (12 miles), Morro bay (17 miles), Montana de Oro State Park (18 miles), Cayucos (18 Miles), the Pismo Dunes (28 miles) and world- famous Hearst Castle (45 miles).