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Metadata Assistant Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Maintains expertise in metadata and cataloging standards. * Collaborates with other librarians in ... The budgeted salary range for the position is $63,000 - $75,000 for a Library Assistant Professor ...

Maintains expertise in metadata and cataloging standards. * Collaborates with other librarians in ... The budgeted salary range for the position is $63,000 - $75,000 for a Library Assistant Professor ...

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Metadata Assistant information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$7

$21

$39

How much do metadata assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average hourly pay for metadata assistant in Chicago, IL is $21.21, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.59 and $23.27 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a metadata assistant?

Metadata Assistants are professionals who support the organization, management, and maintenance of metadata in libraries, archives, museums, or digital collections. Their primary role involves creating, editing, and ensuring the accuracy of metadata records, which helps users locate and access resources efficiently. They may also assist with data entry, quality control, and the application of cataloging standards. Metadata Assistants work closely with librarians, archivists, and other information professionals to maintain high-quality information systems.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a metadata assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Metadata Assistant, you need a detail-oriented mindset, familiarity with metadata standards, and a background in library science or information management. Experience with cataloging systems, library management software, and knowledge of standards such as MARC or Dublin Core is commonly required. Strong organizational skills, accuracy, and effective communication help you excel in updating and maintaining metadata records. These skills ensure the accurate organization, retrieval, and accessibility of digital and physical information resources.

What are some common challenges faced by metadata assistants, and how can they be addressed?

Metadata Assistants often encounter challenges such as ensuring data accuracy, maintaining consistency across different cataloging standards, and managing large volumes of information. Staying up-to-date with changing metadata standards and mastering various database systems can also be demanding. To address these challenges, it’s helpful to participate in ongoing professional development, collaborate closely with catalogers and IT staff, and utilize quality control tools to regularly audit and correct metadata entries. Building strong communication skills and being detail-oriented are key assets in this role.

What is the difference between Metadata Assistant vs Data Entry Clerk?

AspectMetadata AssistantData Entry Clerk
Required SkillsKnowledge of metadata standards, attention to detail, basic database skillsTyping accuracy, data input, basic computer skills
Work EnvironmentLibraries, archives, digital repositoriesOffices, administrative settings
CertificationsOften none, but familiarity with cataloging standards helpsNone typically required
Industry UsageLibraries, museums, digital asset managementVarious industries, administrative roles

The main difference is that Metadata Assistants focus on organizing and maintaining digital or physical metadata to improve asset retrieval, while Data Entry Clerks primarily input and manage data accuracy in databases. Metadata Assistants require knowledge of metadata standards and work in specialized environments, whereas Data Entry Clerks perform general data input tasks across various industries.

What are the most commonly searched types of Metadata jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Metadata jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What are popular job titles related to Metadata Assistant jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Metadata Assistant jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Metadata Assistant jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Metadata Assistant jobs in Chicago, IL are:

Infographic showing various Metadata Assistant job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 35% Full Time, 30% Part Time, 11% Temporary, and 24% Contract. Highlights an 89% In-person, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,109 per year, or $21.2 per hour.

Temporary Metadata Operations Assistant

Naperville, IL • On-site

Sourcebooks
Print Media Publishing • 51 - 200 employees

$22/hr

Temporary

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 5 days ago


Job description

Sourcebooks is looking for a detail-oriented and highly organized Temporary Metadata Operations Assistant to join our Metadata team and help keep our day-to-day operations running smoothly. In this role, you’ll work closely with the Metadata Supervisor and other team members, with a particular focus on supporting digital metadata, managing routine metadata tasks, maintaining accurate and complete product information, and providing FileMaker and systems support as needed. This is a great opportunity for someone who enjoys working with data, solving problems, learning new systems, and collaborating with others in a fast-paced environment.
The location for this position can be hybrid or remote in New York or Naperville, Illinois or remote based in any of the following states: Arizona, Connecticut, Illinois, Louisiana, Massachusetts, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, New Jersey, New York, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia, Washington D.C., and Wisconsin.
This is a temporary non-exempt hourly position at $22.00/hourly.  This assignment will be approximately 60 days in duration.  We determine starting pay based on a thorough evaluation of job-related factors, including geographic location, market conditions, relevant experience, training, and education. This process ensures a fair and competitive salary that aligns with both the company and the candidate’s qualifications.  
What you’ll do:
  • Provide day-to-day operational support to the Metadata Supervisor and broader Metadata team.
  • Serve as a key support resource for digital metadata, ensuring information is accurate, complete, and delivered on schedule.
  • Create, update, review, and maintain product metadata across internal systems and partner platforms as needed.
  • Manage routine metadata tasks, including data entry, updates, quality checks, and data cleanup.
  • Monitor metadata for accuracy and completeness, identifying and helping resolve discrepancies or missing information.
  • Provide FileMaker support, including data entry, maintenance, reporting, and routine troubleshooting.
  • Track assigned tasks, priorities, and deadlines to ensure work is completed accurately and on time.
  • Assist with troubleshooting metadata and system-related issues, escalating more complex problems when appropriate.
  • Collaborate with team members and internal partners to answer questions and resolve metadata issues.
  • Provide additional coverage and support during periods of high volume or shifting team priorities.
  • Assist with special projects and other metadata initiatives as assigned.
  • Help document and maintain team processes and workflows to support consistency and efficiency.
What you bring:
  • High school diploma or equivalent required; associate or bachelor’s degree preferred but not required.
  • Strong attention to detail with a demonstrated ability to maintain accuracy when working with data and repetitive tasks.
  • Strong organizational and time-management skills, with the ability to manage multiple assignments and deadlines.
  • Comfortable working with computers, databases, spreadsheets, and other business systems.
  • Basic proficiency with Microsoft Excel and other Microsoft Office applications.
  • Ability and willingness to learn new systems, tools, and processes quickly.
  • Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to identify discrepancies and ask appropriate questions.
  • Clear written and verbal communication skills.
  • Ability to follow established processes and instructions while working independently.
  • Collaborative mindset and willingness to provide support across the team as priorities shift.
  • Dependable, adaptable, and comfortable working in a deadline-driven environment.
  • Previous experience with data entry, administrative support, databases, or digital content is a plus, but not required.
  • Experience with publishing, metadata, audiobooks, or FileMaker is helpful, but not required.
Why Sourcebooks?
Sourcebooks is a thriving entrepreneurial publisher driven by our mission to change lives through books. The fifth-largest publisher in the U.S. by print units sold, we bring extraordinary authors to readers in dynamic, data-driven ways, leading to hundreds of national and international bestsellers. Our insight-driven approach has earned us recognition from Fast Company as a Most Innovative Company, a Best Workplace for Innovators, a Most Loved Workplace by Newsweek, a Best Workplace by Inc., and Publishers Weekly’s nod as “the most successful self-made publisher operating in the 21st century.”. Story by story, book by book, we have changed more than 300 million lives.  Join us as we change 300 million more!  
 
Ready to Apply:
Please submit your resume, salary requirements, and cover letter detailing your relevant experience and interest in this role. Applications without a cover letter will not be considered. Show us your passion and creativity — we’re looking for someone who’s as enthusiastic about this opportunity as we are! 
Full-time employees are eligible for our comprehensive benefits program. Our range of benefits include, but are not limited to, Medical/Prescription drug insurance, Dental, Vision, Health Care, Dependent Care, Flexible Spending Account, Health Savings Account 401(k), Short and Long-Term Disability Insurance, Life/AD&D Insurance, & generous paid time off.  
  
Sourcebooks values the array of talents and perspectives that a diverse workforce brings. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, national origin, religion, age, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, or protected veteran status

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