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Metadata Library Jobs in Ashburn, VA (NOW HIRING)

US Legislative Branch

Librarian

Washington, DC · On-site

$70K/yr

Knowledge of library metadata rules, practices, and procedures.** Ability to acquire and process library materials.** Ability to use integrated library software applications, integrated library ...

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All JobsMetadata Library JobsMetadata Library Jobs in Ashburn, VA

Metadata Library information

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$9

$19

$28

How much do metadata library jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for metadata library in Ashburn, VA is $19.10, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.48 and $21.63 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 are popular job titles related to Metadata Library jobs in Ashburn, VA?

For Metadata Library jobs in Ashburn, VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Metadata Library jobs in Ashburn, VA look for?

The top searched job categories for Metadata Library jobs in Ashburn, VA are:

What cities near Ashburn, VA are hiring for Metadata Library jobs?

Cities near Ashburn, VA with the most Metadata Library job openings:

Infographic showing various Metadata Library job openings in Ashburn, VA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 83% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 90% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,737 per year, or $19.1 per hour.

Cataloging and Metadata Librarian (Part-Time)

Gaithersburg, MD • Remote

Library Systems & Services LLC
Libraries and Archives • 1 - 5K employees
Learn more about Library Systems & Services LLCexternal

$35 - $48/hr

Part-time

Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 15 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Perform original and complex cataloging using MARC21 for various library resources.

  • Create, edit, and maintain bibliographic and holdings records within the Ex Libris Alma library services platform.

  • Conduct quality control reviews of bibliographic records and metadata to ensure accuracy and consistency.

Job description

Description

LAC Federal is seeking an experienced Cataloging and Metadata Librarian to support a major federal research library. This part-time remote position supports one of the nation's premier scientific research organizations by performing advanced cataloging and metadata services for technical reports, archival collections, digital objects, museum materials, and scientific publications. The successful candidate will help maintain the integrity of more than 130,000 bibliographic records while supporting digital repositories, metadata quality initiatives, and the Library's cloud-based library services platform. This position is ideal for an experienced technical services librarian with extensive MARC, RDA, authority control, and Ex Libris Alma expertise who enjoys working in a collaborative federal research environment.


Responsibilities

  • Perform original and complex cataloging using MARC21 for technical reports, archival materials, government publications, and other library resources.
  • Perform copy cataloging utilizing established metadata standards and authority records.
  • Create, edit, and maintain bibliographic and holdings records within the Ex Libris Alma library services platform.
  • Apply current cataloging standards including RDA, AACR2, BIBFRAME concepts, Library of Congress Subject Headings (LCSH), and Library of Congress Name Authority File (LCNAF).
  • Catalog museum objects, photographs, archival materials, and historical NIST resources.
  • Prepare digital publications, images, and associated metadata for ingestion into digital repositories.
  • Conduct quality control reviews of bibliographic records and metadata to ensure accuracy and consistency.
  • Support maintenance and ongoing operation of the library's integrated library system and metadata environment.
  • Assist with metadata cleanup, enhancement, and other cataloging-related projects as assigned.
  • Collaborate closely with NIST library staff to prioritize work and meet project objectives.
  • Prepare monthly progress reports summarizing completed work, hours worked, project status, and issues requiring attention.
  • Follow established federal library policies, technical standards, quality assurance procedures, and project plans.



Requirements

  • MLS degree from accredited institution or equivalent library experience
  • At least 5 years of experience with metadata work and technical services
  • Demonstrate experience with Ex Libris Alma ILS
  • Ability to consistently apply cataloging rules and standards, including RDA, Bibframe, AACR2, and authorities including LCSH and LCNAH
  • Experience with various metadata formats including MARC21, XML, MARCXML
  • Experience with cataloging tools such as OCLC Records Manager and Connexion, MarcEdit, bibliographic formats and standards, and authority files
  • Experience with an online integrated library system and the OCLC WorldCat and Worldshare systems.
  • Experience with command line scripting, batch scripting, XSLT transformations, and regular expressions
  • Previous original and copy cataloging experience, or course work.
  • Excellent organizational and time management skills.
  • Ability to communicate clearly and effectively.
  • Good knowledge of professional library theories, issues and trends.
  • Ability to problem-solve issues in cataloging.
  • Good judgment based on logical reasoning and cataloging principles is necessary.


Preferred Qualifications 

  • Experience cataloging scientific, technical, engineering, or government publications.
  • Experience supporting federal libraries, research libraries, or academic research institutions.
  • Experience working with digital repositories and digital asset management systems.
  • Familiarity with metadata transformation workflows and bulk metadata remediation.
  • Experience cataloging archival collections, museum collections, or special collections.
  • Working knowledge of linked data initiatives within libraries.
  • Experience using OpenRefine or other metadata normalization tools.
  • Familiarity with APIs, metadata harvesting, or repository ingest workflows.
  • Experience working independently in a fully remote environment while meeting production deadlines.
  • Demonstrated commitment to continuous professional development in cataloging and metadata standards.

Physical Requirements

  • Work is performed in a remote office environment requiring prolonged periods of sitting, frequent use of a computer, keyboard, and mouse, and sustained visual focus while creating, reviewing, and editing bibliographic and metadata records. 
  • Requires the ability to maintain attention to detail and perform repetitive cataloging and metadata tasks for extended periods, including reviewing complex bibliographic records, digital assets, and metadata for accuracy and consistency. 
  • Must be able to communicate effectively and collaborate in a virtual environment using video conferencing, email, and other online collaboration tools, while meeting production deadlines and participating in remote team meetings.

Benefits

  • Tuition Reimbursement (after 30 days of employment)
  • 401(k) Plan, 19+ years old
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Employee Referral Bonus Program
  • Bucketlist Awards
  • Sick leave
  • Vacation leave - Yearly accrual up to 40 hours.
  • Holiday Pay at 4 hours

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.

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