1

Metadata Library Jobs (NOW HIRING)

$180 - $250/hr

A growing part of the mandate is metadata management: every model and metric gets an AI- and human-readable description, and we maintain a living library of key metrics with reference SQL ...

New

Master's degree in Library and Information Science (MLIS), Information Management, or a related field from an ALA-accredited program preferred. * Minimum of 3 to 5 years of experience in digital ...

A growing part of the mandate is metadata management: every model and metric gets an AI- and human-readable description, and we maintain a living library of key metrics with reference SQL ...

Perform copy cataloging and metadata creation for all library materials, all physical and digital forms, according to national standards to ensure all materials are optimally accessible, using a ...

New

Showing results 21-40

Metadata Library information

See salary details

$8

$18

$27

How much do metadata library jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for metadata library in the United States is $18.68, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.14 and $21.15 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.

More about Metadata Library jobs

What cities are hiring for Metadata Library jobs?

Cities with the most Metadata Library job openings:

What states have the most Metadata Library jobs?

States with the most job openings for Metadata Library jobs include:

Infographic showing various Metadata Library job openings in the United States 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 $38,859 per year, or $18.7 per hour.

Metadata Strategy Specialist (LIBRARY PROFL 4 CX)

University of California - Davis

Davis, CA • On-site

$78K - $103K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 8 days ago


University Of California Davis rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 43 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

208th of 618 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Apply for Job
Job ID
83907
Location
Davis
Full/Part Time
Full Time
Add to Favorite Jobs
Email this Job
Job Summary

This position's chief objective is to serve as a work lead for local metadata initiatives and assist the Unit Head in the Metadata Creation and Discovery Unit, which is responsible for ensuring the access of library resources in all formats. Independently performs complex copy and original cataloging of monographic resources in various formats, languages, and subject areas; upgrades and enriches WorldCat bibliographic records following the local and national standards; contributes to Library of Congress authority file maintenance following current Program for Cooperative Cataloging practices; troubleshoots issues related to authority, bibliographical, holding, and item records in the library repository; autonomously implements batch processing of record loads; serves as expert and takes leads on metadata initiatives related to updating terminology to reflect modern usage; actively contributes to linked data implementation; works on special projects.

Apply By Date

August 27, 2026 at 11:59pm

Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications - For full consideration, applicants are encouraged to upload license and/or certification if required of the position

  • Bachelor's degree in related area and/or equivalent experience/training in academic libraries
  • 3 years of experience performing complex copy and original cataloging of various formats in various languages.
  • Demonstrated knowledge of monograph cataloging standards and practices including BIBCO, RDA, AACR2 and MARC21 coding.
  • Specialized knowledge of and ability to use LC subject headings and current sources of verification sufficient to independently upgrade and assign subject headings.
  • Ability to work independently with minimal supervision and collaboratively as part of a team in a fast-paced, production- and service-driven environment.
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, aptitude for accurate and detail-oriented work, high flexibility and adaptability, and capability of communicating clearly, effectively and professionally both orally and in writing with people with diverse backgrounds.
  • Advanced knowledge of library procedures and technical services operations; technical competence with standard PC applications and cataloging utilities; and proficiency in ongoing education and capability to autonomously master new tools and adopt techniques.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Experienced with working with cataloging module of an integrated library system, preferably Ex Libris's Alma.
  • Experienced with contributing to the Program for Cooperative Cataloging.
  • Experienced with data transformation.
  • Experience with documentation creation and maintenance.
  • Adept in batch processing
  • Knowledge of current library linked data development

Key Responsibilities

  • 70% - Catalog
  • 20% - Support Linked Data Implementation
  • 10% - Other Duties as Assigned

Department Overview

The UC Davis Library is a hybrid digital and physical work environment that values collegiality, respect for one another, and ongoing personal and professional development. The physical facilities of the library comprise the Peter J. Shields Library in Davis and the Blaisdell Medical Library at the UC Davis Health campus in Sacramento. For more information about the library, visit http://library.ucdavis.edu/about.

POSITION INFORMATION

  • Salary or Pay Range: $78,701.68/yr. - $103,831.73/yr.
  • Salary Frequency: Annual
  • Salary Grade: STEPS
  • UC Job Title: LIBRARY PROFL 4 CX
  • UC Job Code: 004445
  • Number of Positions: 1
  • Appointment Type: Staff: Career
  • Percentage of Time: 100%
  • Shift (Work Schedule): Monday - Friday, 8am - 5pm
  • Location: Davis, CA
  • Union Representation: CX-Clerical/Admin
  • Benefits Eligible: Yes
  • This position is hybrid (mix of on-site and remote work)

Benefits

Outstanding benefits and perks are among the many rewards of working for the University of California. UC Davis offers a full range of benefits, resources and programs to help you bring your best self to work, as well as to help you and your family achieve your health, wellness, financial and career goals. Learn more about the benefits below and eligibility rules by visiting either our handy Benefits Summary for UC Davis Health Employees or Benefits Summary for UC Davis Employees and our Benefits Page.
If you are represented by a union, benefits are negotiated between the University of California (UC) and your union and finalized in a contract. Read your bargaining unit's employment contract, stay abreast of current negotiations and learn about collective bargaining at UC: https://ucnet.universityofcalifornia.edu/labor/bargaining-units/index.html

  • High quality and low-cost medical plans to choose from to fit your family's needs
  • UC pays for Dental and Vision insurance premiums for you and your family
  • Extensive leave benefits including Pregnancy and Parental Leave, Family & Medical Leave
  • Paid Holidays annually as stipulated in the UC Davis Health Policies or Collective Bargaining Agreement
  • Paid Time Off/Vacation/Sick Time as stipulated in the UC Davis Health Policies or Collective Bargaining Agreement
  • Continuing Education (CE) allowance and Education Reimbursement Program as stipulated in the UC Davis Health Policies or Collective Bargaining Agreement
  • Access to free professional development courses and learning opportunities for personal and professional growth
  • WorkLife and Wellness programs and resources
  • On-site Employee Assistance Program including access to free mental health services
  • Supplemental insurance offered including additional life, short/long term disability, pet insurance and legal coverage
  • Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSFL) Qualified Employer & Student Loan Repayment Assistance Program for qualified roles
  • Retirement benefit options for eligible roles including Pension and other Retirement Saving Plans. More information on our retirement benefits can be found here

Physical Demands

  • Standing - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
  • Walking - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
  • Sitting - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
  • Lifting/Carrying 0-25 Lbs - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
  • Lifting/Carrying 26-50 lbs - Never 0 Hours
  • Lifting/Carrying over 50 lbs - Never 0 Hours
  • Pushing/Pulling 0-25 Lbs - Never 0 Hours
  • Pushing/Pulling 26-50 lbs - Never 0 Hours
  • Pushing/Pulling over 50 lbs - Never 0 Hours
  • Bending/Stooping - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
  • Squatting/Kneeling - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
  • Twisting - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
  • Climbing (e.g., stairs or ladders) - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
  • Reaching overhead - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
  • Keyboard use/repetitive motion - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours

Environmental Demands

  • Chemicals, dust, gases, or fumes - Never 0 Hours
  • Loud noise levels - Never 0 Hours
  • Marked changes in humidity or temperature - Never 0 Hours
  • Microwave/Radiation - Never 0 Hours
  • Operating motor vehicles and/or equipment - Never 0 Hours
  • Extreme Temperatures - Never 0 Hours
  • Uneven Surfaces or Elevations - Never 0 Hours

Mental Demands

  • Sustained attention and concentration - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
  • Complex problem solving/reasoning - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
  • Ability to organize & prioritize - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
  • Communication skills - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
  • Numerical skills - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
  • Constant Interaction - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
  • Customer/Patient Contact - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
  • Multiple Concurrent Tasks - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours

Work Environment

  • UC Davis is a smoke and tobacco free campus effective January 1, 2014. Smoking, the use of smokeless tobacco products, and the use of unregulated nicotine products (e-cigarettes) will be strictly prohibited on any UC Davis owned or leased property, indoors and outdoors, including parking lots and residential space.
  • Work at computer for extended periods of time (6-8 hours per day); Maintain a work schedule during core business hours; Limited vacation usage during peak workload periods; Some flexibility to work a hybrid onsite/remote schedule based on operational needs.
  • No eating or drinking in the work area.
  • Work in close proximity to others, with frequent interaction and interruptions; frequent movement within the department and to and from other departments/areas.

Special Requirements - Please contact your recruiter with questions regarding which activities apply by position

  • This is a critical position, as defined by UC Policy and local procedures, and as such, employment is contingent upon clearing a criminal background check(s) and may include drug screening, medical evaluation clearance and functional capacity assessment

Misconduct Disclosure Requirement: As a condition of employment, the final candidate who accepts a conditional offer of employment will be required to disclose if they have been subject to any final administrative or judicial decisions within the last seven years determining that they committed any misconduct; received notice of any allegations or are currently the subject of any administrative or disciplinary proceedings involving misconduct; have left a position after receiving notice of allegations or while under investigation in an administrative or disciplinary proceeding involving misconduct; or have filed an appeal of a finding of misconduct with a previous employer.

A Culture of Opportunity and Belonging

At UC Davis, we're committed to solving life's most urgent challenges and building a healthier, more resilient world. We believe in growing through every challenge, continually striving to improve, and welcoming new perspectives that strengthen our community. We recognize that a vibrant and innovative organization values both individual strengths and shared purpose. The best ideas often emerge when people with different experiences come together.
As you consider joining UC Davis, we invite you to explore our Principles of Community, our Clinical Strategic Plan and strategic vision for research and education. We believe you belong here. The University of California, Davis is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age or protected veteran status.


What University Of California Davis employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom