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Metadata Library Jobs in Madison, WI (NOW HIRING)

... metadata/lineage expectations). • Knowledge of message/event platforms and streaming ingestion ... libraries, parameterized jobs, standardized patterns) to accelerate delivery across domains. • ...

Metadata Library information

See Madison, WI salary details

$8

$18

$27

How much do metadata library jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for metadata library in Madison, WI is $18.82, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.24 and $21.30 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 Madison, WI?

For Metadata Library jobs in Madison, WI, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities near Madison, WI are hiring for Metadata Library jobs?

Cities near Madison, WI with the most Metadata Library job openings:

Infographic showing various Metadata Library job openings in Madison, WI as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 80% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 90% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,155 per year, or $18.8 per hour.

Electronic Resources Cataloging Specialist

University of Wisconsin-Madison

Madison, WI • On-site

$39K - $45K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 2 days ago

New


University Of Wisconsin-Madison rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 56 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

126th of 620 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Current Employees: If you are currently employed at any of the Universities of Wisconsin, log in to Workday to apply through the internal application process.
Job Category: University Staff
Employment Type: Regular
Job Profile: Library Assistant III
Job Summary:
The University of Wisconsin-Madison Libraries seek a creative and energetic Electronic Resources Cataloging Specialist to join the Electronic Resources Cataloging Team with in the Cataloging Department. The Cataloging Department is responsible for providing access to the UW-Madison Libraries' rich collection in all formats. This position focuses on the electronic resources the library and/or the Universities of Wisconsin purchase or subscribe to.
This position provides resource description services and collaborates with colleagues across departments to resolve cataloging issues for electronic resources. They will contribute to the development and implementation of relevant policies, procedures, and workflows to support the department to perform its functions effectively and efficiently. A successful candidate will collaborate with colleagues through committee services and taskforces, as well as professional development activities.
This position is eligible for partial remote work after initial training is complete. A remote work agreement may allow for a maximum of 40% remote per week.
This position is full-time, 100%.
Ongoing/Renewable
Key Job Responsibilities:
  • Actively participate in an inclusive, welcoming, and respectful workplace (5%)
  • Provides complex library services support in absence of a supervisory authority. Acts as a resource to other library staff (0%)
  • Interprets policies and procedures to answer non-routine questions and resolve complex issues (0%)
  • Hires, trains, and guides student employees and monitors student workflows (0%)
  • May create invoices, process complex orders, and resolve any purchasing discrepancies (0%)
  • Provides complex support to the day-to-day operations of library services to provide guidance in the use of library information resources, operations, and policies; or to acquire, prepare, and preserve library information resources for use (20%)
  • Conducts reference searches to locate relevant materials and answer questions as needed (0%)
  • Contributes to the development of policies and procedures (5%)
  • Utilizes designated library systems, tools, standards, and practices to locate, retrieve, and organize; or describe, edit, preserve, and reformat a variety of library information resources (60%)
  • Participates in committee work within the library and the university (5%)
  • Utilizes library software and systems to retrieve, enter, and report on data using a wide variety of applications (5%)
  • May assist and educate both face-to-face and remote customers in the use of technologies and tools to create, seek, use, and manage information (0%)

Department:
Libraries, Cataloging
Compensation:
Starting salary will be based on experience and qualifications. Well-qualified applicants can anticipate earning between $39,335 - $45,000 with final salary based on experience and qualifications.
This position offers a comprehensive benefits package, including generous paid time off, competitively priced health/dental/vision/life insurance, tax-advantaged savings accounts, and participation in the nationally recognized Wisconsin Retirement System (WRS) pension fund. For a summary of benefits, please seehttps://www.wisconsin.edu/ohrwd/benefits/download/univstaff.pdf.
Employees in this position can expect to receive benefits such as generous vacation, holidays, and sick leave; competitive insurances and savings accounts; retirement benefits. Benefits information can be found at https://hr.wisc.edu/benefits/.
Required Qualifications:
  • Excellent communication skills with the ability to collaborate effectively with colleagues and other stakeholders
  • Demonstrated strong problem-solving skills
  • Demonstrated ability to independently prioritize workload, manage multiple projects and deadlines effectively, and follow-through on tasks

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Working knowledge and experience of cataloging and metadata rules, standards, and tools such as theMachine Readable Cataloging (MARC) standard, and Resource Description and Access (RDA) standard
  • Working proficiency with Microsoft Excel and/or OpenRefine. Experience with large data sets and working in batches.
  • Familiarity with Online Computer Library Center (OCLC) products (Connexion, WorldShare, etc.).
  • Experience with an integrated library system (ex: Alma from Ex Libris)
  • Ability to analyze problems and suggest solutions

Education:
High school degree required
How to Apply:
Click the "Apply" button to start the application process. You will be prompted to upload the following documents:
  • Resume
  • Cover Letter

Applicants should attach a cover letter and resume detailing their training and experience relating to the required and preferred qualifications referenced above. The application reviewers will be relying on written application materials to determine which qualified applicants will advance in the recruitment process.
References will be requested from finalists only and are not required with the initial application. Reference requests will be sent via email from SkillSurvey.
Failure to submit the required documents will result in no longer being considered for the position.
Please note that successful applicants are responsible for ensuring their eligibility to work in the United States (i.e. a citizen or national of the United States, a lawful permanent resident, a foreign national authorized to work in the United States without need of employer sponsorship) on or before the effective date of appointment.
Contact Information:
Caitlin Milnthorpe, caitlin.milnthorpe@wisc.edu, 608-263-4962
Relay Access (WTRS): 7-1-1. SeeRELAY_SERVICEfor further information.
Institutional Statement on Diversity:
Diversity is a source of strength, creativity, and innovation for UW-Madison. We value the contributions of each person and respect the profound ways their identity, culture, background, experience, status, abilities, and opinion enrich the university community. We commit ourselves to the pursuit of excellence in teaching, research, outreach, and diversity as inextricably linked goals.
The University of Wisconsin-Madison fulfills its public mission by creating a welcoming and inclusive community for people from every background - people who as students, faculty, and staff serve Wisconsin and the world.
The University of Wisconsin-Madison is an Equal OpportunityEmployer.
Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to, including but not limited to, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, age, pregnancy, disability, or status as a protected veteran and other bases as defined by federal regulations and UW System policies. We promote excellence by acknowledging skills and expertise from all backgroundsand encourage all qualified individuals to apply. For more information regarding applicant and employee rights and to view federal and state required postings, visit the Human Resources Workplace Poster website.
To request a disability or pregnancy-related accommodationfor any step in the hiring process (e.g., application, interview, pre-employment testing, etc.), please contact the Divisional Disability Representative (DDR)in the division you are applying to.Please make your request as soon as possible to help the university respond most effectively to you.
Employment may require a criminal background check. It may also require your references to answer questions regarding misconduct, including sexual violence and sexual harassment.
The University of Wisconsin System will not reveal the identities of applicants who request confidentiality in writing, except that the identity of the successful candidate will be released. See Wis. Stat. sec. 19.36(7).
The Annual Security and Fire Safety Report contains current campus safety and disciplinary policies, crime statistics for the previous 3 calendar years, and on-campus student housing fire safety policies and fire statistics for the previous 3 calendar years. UW-Madison will provide a paper copy upon request; please contact the University of Wisconsin Police Department.

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About University of Wisconsin

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

The University of Wisconsin, based in Madison, WI, US, functions in the educational industry and is a renowned and respected institution for higher education. Its official website is wisc.edu. Established in 1848, this public research university is recognized globally for its innovative approach to education, research, creativity, and public service. It embodies a strong commitment to academic freedom and academic excellence. As a major contributor to the Wisconsin Idea, it aims to accomplish its mission of generating well-rounded individuals who will contribute substantially to society, the local community, and the global economy.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Madison, WI, US

Year founded

2005