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Metadata Library Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Metadata Librarian

Alexandria, VA ยท On-site

$84K - $90K/yr

In this role, you will support the USACE Digital Library by cataloging materials in multiple formats, creating and maintaining metadata, identifying metadata errors, and supporting the digitization ...

Digital Library Librarian

Alexandria, VA ยท On-site

$84K - $90K/yr

Digital Library Librarian Location: Alexandria, VA, 22315 Work Arrangement: Onsite Pay: $84,000-$90 ... Apply metadata standards including MARC, MODS, and Dublin Core * Identify and correct metadata ...

UDL Librarian

Alexandria, VA ยท On-site

$84K - $90K/yr

RESPONSIBILITIES Digital Library Cataloging & Metadata * Perform original and copy cataloging for materials in a variety of formats * Create, edit, and maintain metadata supporting USACE digital ...

Digital Collections Librarian

Alexandria, VA ยท On-site

$84K - $90K/yr

RESPONSIBILITIES Digital Library Cataloging & Metadata * Perform original and copy cataloging for materials in a variety of formats * Create, edit, and maintain metadata supporting USACE digital ...

RESPONSIBILITIES Digital Library Cataloging & Metadata * Perform original and copy cataloging for materials in a variety of formats * Create, edit, and maintain metadata supporting USACE digital ...

Librarian

Arlington, VA ยท On-site +1

$102K - $133K/yr

Utilizing automated library databases and cataloging systems to perform descriptive cataloging and metadata assignment for physical, digital, and multi-media collections; and * Utilizing marketing ...

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Metadata Library information

What is a metadata librarian?

Metadata librarians are information professionals who manage and organize metadata, which is data that describes other data, for library collections. They create, edit, and maintain metadata records to ensure resources are discoverable, accessible, and properly described in library catalogs and digital repositories. Their work supports searchability, digital preservation, and resource sharing by applying standards and best practices for cataloging. Metadata librarians often collaborate with IT staff, archivists, and subject specialists to enhance user access to library materials.

What skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as a metadata librarian?

To thrive as a Metadata Librarian, you need expertise in cataloging standards (such as MARC, Dublin Core), metadata schema, and information organization, usually supported by a Master's in Library Science or a related field. Familiarity with integrated library systems (ILS), metadata management tools, and knowledge of cataloging software like OCLC Connexion is typical. Attention to detail, analytical thinking, and strong communication skills help ensure accuracy and facilitate collaboration with library staff. These skills and qualities are crucial to maintaining accessible, well-organized digital and print collections that support user discovery and research.

What are common challenges faced by professionals working in a metadata library role, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in a metadata library role often encounter challenges such as maintaining consistency and accuracy in metadata standards across diverse collections, keeping up with evolving cataloging guidelines, and integrating new technologies or platforms. Addressing these challenges typically involves ongoing training, collaboration with colleagues to develop clear metadata policies, and staying informed about industry best practices. Regular communication with IT teams and subject specialists is also key to ensuring that metadata effectively supports discoverability and access for library users.

What is the difference between Metadata Library vs Metadata Specialist?

AspectMetadata LibraryMetadata Specialist
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in library science, information management, or related fieldsRequires similar credentials, often with additional certifications in data management or information systems
Work EnvironmentLibraries, archives, or information centers managing large metadata collectionsData-driven organizations, digital repositories, or information management teams
Employer & IndustryLibraries, museums, archives, academic institutionsTech companies, publishing, digital content providers
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding library metadata management rolesSpecialized data and metadata management tasks

The main difference is that a Metadata Library focuses on managing metadata within library and archival settings, while a Metadata Specialist handles metadata in broader digital and data environments. Both roles require similar credentials but serve different industry needs.

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Metadata Library jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Metadata Library job openings:

Infographic showing various Metadata Library job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 76% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution.

Metadata Librarian

Alexandria, VA โ€ข On-site

$84K - $90K/yr

Full-time

Posted 6 days ago


Job description

Title: Metadata Librarian
Location: Alexandria, VA, 22315
Work Arrangement: Onsite
Pay: $84,000-$90,000 annually
KMRG is a federal services company that hires talented professionals to support Government agencies and the communities they serve. We are hiring a Metadata Librarian to support the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) Mission Support Battalion (UMSB) Library at the Humphreys Engineer Center in Alexandria, Virginia.
In this role, you will support the USACE Digital Library by cataloging materials in multiple formats, creating and maintaining metadata, identifying metadata errors, and supporting the digitization and ingestion of USACE publications. The work supports interoperability, discoverability, and long-term access to USACE digital collections.
This position is a strong fit for a detail-oriented librarian with experience in cataloging, metadata, digital-library workflows, and the careful handling of older or delicate materials.
Applications will be reviewed as they are received. Apply today!
RESPONSIBILITIES
Digital Library Cataloging & Metadata
  • Perform original and copy cataloging for materials in a variety of formats
  • Create, edit, and maintain metadata supporting USACE digital-library collections
  • Apply metadata standards including MARC, MODS, and Dublin Core
  • Identify and correct metadata errors that affect consistency or discoverability
  • Support accurate description of monographs, audiovisual materials, maps, manuscripts, rare books, and related formats
Digitization & Ingestion Support
  • Support the ingestion and digitization of USACE publications and other collection materials
  • Prepare and validate metadata so digital content can be discovered and used effectively
  • Apply metadata practices that support interoperability across digital-library systems
  • Coordinate cataloging and metadata work with established USACE digital-library workflows
  • Handle older and delicate source materials carefully during processing and digitization support
Digital Library Platforms & Quality
  • Use or quickly learn digital-library platforms such as CONTENTdm, DSpace, and Knowvation
  • Review metadata for completeness, consistency, and adherence to applicable standards
  • Maintain accurate metadata files and support correction of identified discrepancies
  • Perform detailed analytical work requiring sustained accuracy and attention to detail
  • Stay current with relevant cataloging, metadata, and digital-library practices
Project Support
  • Support a digital-library workload of approximately 17,000 items
  • Process materials that include approximately 6,000 USACE Reports and 11,000 USACE Regulations
  • Work within established Government procedures and coordinate with USACE personnel as required
  • Maintain reliable production while preserving the quality of cataloging and metadata outputs

REQUIRED BACKGROUND
  • ALA-accredited Master of Library Science (MLS) or Master of Library and Information Science (MLIS) degree
  • 2+ years of professional original and copy cataloging experience across multiple formats
  • Cataloging experience with monographs, audiovisual materials, maps, manuscripts, rare books, and similar materials
  • Knowledge of digital-library platforms such as CONTENTdm, DSpace, and Knowvation
  • Familiarity with metadata standards including MARC, MODS, and Dublin Core
  • 1+ year of experience developing or maintaining metadata files and identifying metadata errors
  • Experience or demonstrated ability supporting digitization and digital-library ingestion
  • Expertise handling older or delicate materials
  • Aptitude for complex analytical work with excellent attention to detail
  • Ability to lift materials weighing up to 20 pounds

LOCATION
  • UMSB Library, 7701 Telegraph Road, Alexandria, VA 22315

TRAVEL
  • Travel is not expected

CLIENT
  • U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), Mission Support Battalion (UMSB)

EMPLOYMENT CLASSIFICATION
  • Employment classification-Exempt

KMRG, LLC is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action (EEO/AA) employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, ancestry, national origin, age, marital or civil partnership status, mental disability, physical disability, medical condition, pregnancy, maternity status, political affiliation, military or veteran status, genetic information, traits historically associated with race, or any other basis prohibited by federal, state, and/or local law.