Senior Cataloging Librarian (Head Cataloger)

Description:

The Senior Cataloging Librarian (Head Cataloger) to support a federal academic library. This position will play a critical role in supporting an Integrated Library System (ILS) migration and ongoing cataloging operations, ensuring the accuracy, consistency, and discoverability of bibliographic and authority data across physical and digital collections. The selected candidate will provide advanced cataloging expertise, perform metadata normalization and authority control, and support system implementation and post-migration cleanup activities within an Ex Libris Alma/Primo environment.

The position is bonus eligible based on project completion.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Perform original and complex copy cataloging in MARC21 in accordance with RDA, LCSH, and LC Classification standards
• Execute authority control and maintain authority records using LCNAF and established vocabularies
• Support ILS migration activities including data cleanup, normalization, validation, and post-migration reconciliation
• Analyze and correct legacy bibliographic records to improve metadata accuracy and consistency
• Create and maintain standardized subject, name, and series access points to support discovery and collocation
• Conduct metadata quality control, including peer review and validation of catalog records
• Collaborate with government staff and system vendors to align cataloging workflows with system configuration
• Support integration of digital collections and special collections metadata into the ILS and discovery layer
• Document cataloging procedures and contribute to metadata governance and best practices
• Generate reports and track cataloging productivity and quality metrics

Requirements:

• Master’s Degree in Library and Information Science (MLIS) from an ALA-accredited program
• Minimum of 5 years of professional cataloging experience in an academic, federal, or special library environment
• Demonstrated expertise in MARC21, RDA, LCSH, and LC Classification
• Experience performing authority control and working with LCNAF and controlled vocabularies
• Experience with Integrated Library Systems, preferably Ex Libris Alma/Primo
• Experience performing metadata cleanup, normalization, and database maintenance
• Strong attention to detail and ability to apply cataloging standards consistently
• Ability to work independently in a fast-paced, production-oriented environment

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Preferred Requirements

• Experience supporting ILS migration projects (e.g., SirsiDynix to Alma)
• Experience with OCLC Connexion and metadata tools such as MARCEdit or OpenRefine
• Familiarity with digital collections metadata standards (e.g., Dublin Core, MODS, EAD)
• Experience in a federal or Department of Defense library environment
• Knowledge of metadata crosswalks and schema alignment
• Experience mentoring junior catalogers or serving as a technical lead

Physical Requirements

• Ability to sit for extended periods while performing detailed cataloging, metadata analysis, and data entry tasks within an Integrated Library System (ILS) environment.
• Capacity to use a computer and standard office equipment for prolonged periods, including frequent keyboarding, viewing digital records, and navigating cataloging systems such as Ex Libris Alma/Primo.
• Ability to occasionally lift and handle library materials (e.g., books, archival items, or boxes) weighing up to 20 pounds for review, organization, or quality control purposes.

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

EEO Statement

The company and its subsidiaries are an equal opportunity employer and celebrate the population of differences and does not discriminate in its hiring/hiring practices, regardless of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

Nothing in this job specification restricts management’s right to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time.

Critical features of this job are described under various headings above. They may be subject to change at any time due to reasonable accommodation or other reasons. The above statements are strictly intended to describe the general nature and level of the work being performed. They are not intended to be construed as a complete list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of employees in this position.

This job description in no way states or implies that these are the only duties to be performed by the employee(s) incumbent in this position. Employees will be required to follow any other job-related instructions and to perform any other job-related duties requested by any person authorized to give instructions or assignments. All duties and responsibilities are essential functions and requirements and are subject to possible modification to reasonably accommodate individuals with disabilities.

To perform this job successfully, the incumbents will possess the skills, aptitudes, and abilities to perform each duty proficiently.

Some requirements may exclude individuals who pose a direct threat or significant risk to the health or safety of themselves or others. The requirements listed in this document are the minimum levels of knowledge, skills, or abilities. This document does not create an employment contract, implied or otherwise, other than an “at will” relationship.