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Metadata Librarian Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Metadata Specialist I

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$19.25 - $25.25/hr

The Metadata Specialist will play a key role in managing and implementing innovative workflows for ... Serving an international community of scholars, the Research Library is one of the world's largest ...

Performs cataloging and metadata services for library materials both physical and electronic; trains cataloging support staff and reviews their work; ensures the integrity of the OPAC; participates ...

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Metadata Librarian information

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$26K

$62.1K

$100.5K

How much do metadata librarian jobs pay per year?

As of May 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for metadata librarian in the United States is $62,056.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $49,500.00 and $72,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a Metadata Librarian do?

A Metadata Librarian is responsible for creating, managing, and organizing metadata to ensure efficient access to library resources. They apply metadata standards, schemas, and controlled vocabularies to describe digital and physical materials, enhancing discoverability. They often work with cataloging systems, digital repositories, and database technologies to support scholarly research and user access. Additionally, they collaborate with colleagues to develop metadata policies and workflows that align with institutional and industry best practices. Their role is essential in improving resource organization, retrieval, and long-term digital preservation.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Metadata Librarian position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Metadata Librarian, you need a strong understanding of metadata standards, cataloging principles, and information organization, typically supported by a degree in library and information science or a related field. Familiarity with integrated library systems (ILS), metadata schema like MARC, Dublin Core, or MODS, and tools such as OCLC or CONTENTdm is essential. Strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and effective communication help Metadata Librarians collaborate and solve problems efficiently. These competencies are crucial for ensuring accurate resource description, efficient information retrieval, and consistent library data management.

What are some typical daily responsibilities of a Metadata Librarian?

A Metadata Librarian typically spends each day creating, reviewing, and maintaining metadata for library resources such as books, digital collections, and special archives to ensure accurate organization and discoverability. This includes applying established metadata standards, collaborating with colleagues to enhance workflows, and troubleshooting any metadata quality issues. You may also participate in projects to improve metadata practices, support digital initiatives, and train staff on new processes or systems. The role often involves working closely with catalogers, digital librarians, and IT teams to support the library's mission and resource accessibility.
What cities are hiring for Metadata Librarian jobs? Cities with the most Metadata Librarian job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Metadata Librarian jobs? The most popular types of Metadata Librarian jobs are:
What states have the most Metadata Librarian jobs? States with the most job openings for Metadata Librarian jobs include:
Infographic showing various Metadata Librarian job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, and 13% Part Time. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $62,056 per year, or $29.8 per hour.

**REVISED**Chinese Languages Cataloging Librarian

Princeton University

Princeton, NJ • On-site

$90K - $110K/yr

Full-time, Part-time

Posted 16 days ago


Princeton University rating

9.0

Company rating: 9.0 out of 10

Based on 26 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

18th of 529 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Princeton University Library seeks candidates for the position of Chinese Languages Cataloging Librarian. The position reports to the Leader of the Non-Roman Script Languages Team and supports Princeton University's teaching and research mission by ensuring timely, accurate access to library collections through creating and maintaining bibliographic, holdings, and authority records for Chinese-language resources. The Chinese Languages Cataloging Librarian catalogs monographic and continuing resources in the Cataloging and Metadata Services (CaMS) department and oversees all aspects of metadata creation and management for Chinese-language materials. Princeton University Library is one of the world's leading research libraries, supporting a diverse community of 5,200 undergraduates, 2,700 graduate students, 1,200 faculty members, and many visiting scholars. Its holdings include more than 7 million printed volumes, 85 thousand manuscripts, 2 million non-print items, and extensive collections of digital text, data, and images. The Library employs a dedicated and knowledgeable staff of more than 300 staff working in a large central library, 9 specialized branches, and 3 storage facilities. Primary Responsibilities - Create metadata (original and complex copy cataloging with related authority work) according to national and local standards (RDA, CCSH, LCC, NACO) for other Library material in various formats and subject areas based on department needs. - Update and enhance existing metadata according to national and local standards to reflect the most recent metadata rules and practices for monographic and serial publications in both OCLC and the Library's local database. - Participate in professional activities, scholarship, and committee assignments within the library, on campus, and in professional associations at a level to meet criteria for continuing appointment. - Assist with special projects, as assigned, and collaborate with colleagues on issues related to metadata creation and maintenance. - Keep current with national and international developments and trends in cataloging, metadata, and related areas. Key Qualifications Required - Graduate degree in library science (ALA-accredited) or advanced degree in a relevant field. - Proficiency in Chinese. - Strong knowledge of metadata standards: RDA, LCSH, LCC, MARC 21 - Contribute new name authorities to the Library of Congress Name Authority File - Flexible and adaptable to conceptual and technological change. - Familiarity with library software and integrated systems. - Strong analytical and problem-solving skills. - Excellent interpersonal skills; proven ability to collaborate across projects. Preferred - Ability to communicate effectively in English (written and oral). - Reading knowledge of another East Asian language. - Experience in academic libraries or cultural heritage institutions. - Knowledge of Chinese history, literature, and culture. The successful candidate will be appointed to an appropriate rank depending upon qualifications and experience. Applications will be accepted only from the Jobs at Princeton website: http://dof.princeton.edu/academicjobs and must include a resume, cover letter, and a list of three references with full contact information. This position is subject to the University's background check policy. This position is not eligible for H-1B sponsorship that requires consular processing. Princeton University Library is committed to recruiting a diverse workforce and advancing the University's commitment to equal opportunity and non-discrimination. To maximize excellence, we seek talent from all segments of American society and the world, and we take steps to ensure everyone at Princeton can thrive while they are here. To find out more about PUL's work towards greater inclusivity, equity, and diversity, please see PUL's "About" page.
Expected Salary Range: $90,000 - $110,000
The University considers factors such as (but not limited to) scope and responsibilities of the position, candidate's qualifications, work experience, education/training, key skills, market, collective bargaining agreements as applicable, and organizational considerations when extending an offer. The posted salary range represents the University's good faith and reasonable estimate for a full-time position; salaries for part-time positions are pro-rated accordingly.
The University also offers a comprehensive benefit program to eligible employees. Please see this link for more information.

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