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Metadata Library Jobs in Washington, DC (NOW HIRING)

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$10

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How much do metadata library jobs pay per hour?

As of May 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for metadata library in Washington, DC is $21.16, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.16 and $23.94 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

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 some 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 are metadata librarians and what do they do?

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.

Can you make 6 figures as a librarian?

While most librarians earn below six figures, some specialized roles such as library directors or those working in large institutions with advanced degrees and certifications can reach or exceed a six-figure salary. Achieving this level often requires extensive experience, additional qualifications, and leadership responsibilities.

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 Washington, DC? For Metadata Library jobs in Washington, DC, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Metadata Library jobs in Washington, DC look for? The top searched job categories for Metadata Library jobs in Washington, DC are:
Metadata Library jobs near you
Infographic showing various Metadata Library job openings in Washington, DC as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $44,011 per year, or $21.2 per hour.
Technical Services Librarian (Biomedical Collections)

Technical Services Librarian (Biomedical Collections)

Library Systems & Services LLC

Bethesda, MD

$65K - $80K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 8 days ago

Job description

Description

LAC Federal is seeking a Technical Services Librarian to support a federal library in Bethesda, Maryland.  The Technical Services Librarian will support cataloging, metadata management, acquisitions, electronic resources, collection maintenance, and discovery services for one of the world's premier biomedical research libraries. This position supports the organization, accessibility, discoverability, and long-term management of biomedical and health sciences collections in both physical and digital formats. The ideal candidate will possess strong technical services and metadata expertise, experience with integrated library systems and bibliographic standards, and the ability to work collaboratively in a fast-paced federal research environment.


Duties and Responsibilities

  • Perform original and complex copy cataloging for print and electronic biomedical library materials using national and local metadata standards. 
  • Create, edit, and maintain bibliographic, holdings, authority, and item records in integrated library systems and discovery platforms. 
  • Apply cataloging and metadata standards including MARC21, RDA, AACR2, MeSH, LCSH, LCNAF, Dublin Core, and related schemas. 
  • Support acquisitions and serials workflows including order tracking, receiving, invoicing coordination, and subscription maintenance. 
  • Maintain and troubleshoot electronic resource access issues involving journals, databases, e-books, and authentication systems. 
  • Conduct metadata quality control, normalization, remediation, and authority control activities to improve discoverability and consistency. 
  • Support collection management projects including inventory, weeding, migration, digitization, and retrospective conversion initiatives. 
  • Assist with library systems and discovery layer maintenance, testing, and configuration activities. 
  • Collaborate with public services staff and researchers to resolve bibliographic, access, and resource discovery issues. 
  • Prepare reports, statistics, and workflow documentation related to cataloging productivity, e-resource management, and metadata quality. 
  • Participate in special projects involving digital repositories, metadata crosswalks, linked data, or data cleanup activities. 
  • Remain current with evolving cataloging standards, biomedical metadata practices, and emerging library technologies. 


Requirements

  • Master's degree in Library and Information Science (MLIS/MLS) from an ALA-accredited institution. 
  • Minimum of three (3) years of professional technical services experience in a biomedical, academic, research, or federal library environment. 
  • Demonstrated experience performing original and complex copy cataloging using MARC21, RDA, and AACR2 standards. 
  • Experience using integrated library systems such as Ex Libris Alma, Voyager, OCLC WorldShare Management Services (WMS), or similar platforms. 
  • Knowledge of authority control practices and controlled vocabularies including MeSH, LCSH, and LCNAF. 
  • Experience managing bibliographic, holdings, and item records for print and electronic resources. 
  • Familiarity with electronic resources management concepts and workflows. 
  • Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills. 
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite including Excel, Word, and Teams. 
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills and ability to work collaboratively with librarians, researchers, and technical staff. 
  • Ability to obtain and maintain a Public Trust clearance and NIH badge. 


Preferred Qualifications

  • Experience working in a biomedical or health sciences library environment. 
  • Familiarity with NLM classification practices and Medical Subject Headings (MeSH) indexing. 
  • Experience with OCLC Connexion, Alma Analytics, Primo, or other discovery and metadata management platforms. 
  • Knowledge of metadata schemas including Dublin Core, MODS, BIBFRAME, or XML-based metadata standards. 
  • Experience with metadata remediation, migration, or retrospective conversion projects. 
  • Familiarity with electronic resource troubleshooting tools and OpenURL/link resolver technologies. 
  • Experience supporting institutional repositories or digital library initiatives. 
  • Knowledge of scripting, SQL, OpenRefine, MarcEdit, or other metadata manipulation tools. 
  • Experience participating in systems implementation or library migration projects. 
  • Membership in the American Library Association (ALA), Medical Library Association (MLA), or related professional organizations. 

Physical Requirements

  • Ability to sit or stand for extended periods while performing cataloging, metadata management, electronic resource maintenance, data analysis, and other computer-based technical services activities. 
  • Ability to perform repetitive hand and wrist movements associated with prolonged computer use, including data entry, metadata editing, record maintenance, and use of integrated library systems and discovery platforms. 
  • Ability to occasionally lift, carry, and move library materials, archival boxes, or equipment weighing up to 25 pounds as part of collection maintenance, inventory, and technical services support activities.

Benefits

  • Health Care Plan (Medical, Dental & Vision)
  • Retirement Plan (401k, IRA)
  • Life Insurance (Basic, Voluntary & AD&D)
  • Paid Time Off (Vacation, Sick & Public Holidays)
  • Family Leave (Maternity, Paternity)
  • Short Term & Long-Term Disability
  • Training & Development

 
 

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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