Job Opening: University of Washington Libraries: Digital Projects Librarian

Description

NOTICE OF VACANCY

May 14, 2008

TITLE: Digital Projects Librarian

LOCATION: University of Washington Libraries, Digital Initiatives

THE LIBRARIES:

Among the largest academic research libraries in North America, the University of Washington Libraries has a collection of more than seven million cataloged volumes, an equal number in microform format, more than 50,000 serial titles, and several million items in other formats. Students and faculty recognize the value provided by the Libraries and rank the Libraries as the most important source of information for their work. The Libraries also receives the highest satisfaction rating of any academic service on the surveys of graduating seniors conducted by the Office of Educational Assessment.

THE DIGITAL INITIATIVES UNIT:

The Libraries Digital Initiatives unit is responsible for researching the implications of new technologies for the Libraries. The staff of Digital Initiatives fosters experimentation and collaboration among Libraries' staff, with UW faculty and staff, and with strategic external partners. Digital Initiatives has worked with others in the Libraries to create policies and procedures for the selection and digitization of materials, and manages the Libraries Digital Collections site. In addition, this unit manages large grant funded digitization projects such as The Olympic Peninsula Virtual Community Museum. Digital Initiatives is currently partnering with Dr. Michael Biggins on the William C. Brumfield Russian Architecture Collection.

THE POSITION:

Under the direction of the Head, Digital Initiatives, the Digital Projects Librarian serves as the resource person for researching, recommending, implementing and supporting existing and emerging applications and metadata schema for digital projects; also consults with librarians and faculty regarding the development of digital projects. The incumbent is expected to have experience working collaboratively and constructively with a wide range of groups and individuals, and the ability to communicate with colleagues regarding the technical constraints, requirements, and resource needs associated with work projects.

SPECIFIC RESPONSIBILITIES AND DUTIES:

* Assists in the design, creation and maintenance of World Wide Web applications. Performs programming, database design and data migration. Participates in Digital Initiatives projects that require specialized knowledge and application of software.

* Installs, administers, and troubleshoots software. Initial focus will be DLXS software, but others will be added as necessary. Creates and maintains work and procedure documentation. Ability to understand and work with XML is essential.

* Works with Libraries staff and campus faculty in the development and implementation of research projects involving the Libraries suite of software tools; evaluates and recommends new software and tools, and fosters awareness of evolving technologies and standards in digital scholarship research.

* Works with the Libraries Metadata Librarian in the selection and application of metadata schemas.

* Provides training, instruction, support and documentation to libraries staff and non-technical on-campus and off-campus personnel involved with projects.

* Participates in the development of overall technology planning for Digital Initiatives and Libraries Information Technology Services.

* Provides support to the Libraries regarding technology and metadata issues related to digital preservation both in the Libraries and elsewhere on campus.

* Contributes to the development of University Libraries policies, programs and services.

* Participates in University Libraries committees, particularly the Metadata Implementation Group, task forces, and program planning as appropriate.

* Assumes other responsibilities as assigned; performs other tasks as requested.

QUALIFICATIONS:

Required:

1. Graduate degree from a program accredited by the American Library Association or an equivalent graduate library science/information studies degree.

2. Demonstrated commitment to diversity and understanding of the contributions a diverse workforce brings to the workplace.

3. Direct experience applying XML and/or XSL in a work environment.

4. Demonstrated knowledge of digital library technologies and standards.

5. Demonstrated understanding of current trends and issues in digital library services to support teaching and research.

6. Working knowledge of at least one programming or scripting language and the ability to quickly and independently learn others as required.

7. Ability to work creatively, collaboratively and effectively both as a team member and independently.

8. Ability to interact effectively with a broad range of staff within the Library, the University and in collaborative initiatives with other institutions.

9. Strong interpersonal skills as well as excellent oral and written communication skills.

Preferred:

1. Demonstrated potential for leadership in university and national programs and initiatives.

2. Experience with Information Technology in a higher education or library environment.

3. Ability to forge working agreements on complex assignments across units.

4. Experience completing projects within established deadlines and budgets.

SALARY: $45,000 minimum. Starting salary commensurate with qualifications and background.

BENEFITS: Librarians are academic personnel and participate in the University of Washington Retirement Plan (TIAA-CREF, The Vanguard Group, and/or Fidelity Investments) on a matching basis. Vacation is accrued at the rate of 24 working days per year; sick leave at the rate of 12 working days per year. No state or local income tax.

APPLY TO:

Charles E. Chamberlin Senior Associate Dean University of Washington Libraries 482 Allen Library Box 352900 Seattle, Washington 98195-2900

Applicants should submit a letter of application, full resume including a work telephone number, e-mail address, salary requirements, and the names, addresses and telephone numbers of at least three references who are knowledgeable of the applicant's qualifications for this position.

APPLICATION DEADLINE:

To ensure consideration, applications should be received no later than 5:00 p.m., Friday, July 11, 2008.

University of Washington Libraries Home Page is http://www.lib.washington.edu. The Digital Initiatives Home Page is http://digital.lib.washington.edu/.

The University of Washington, an Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action Employer, is building a culturally diverse staff and strongly encourages applications from female and minority candidates.

In compliance with the Immigration Reform and Control Act of 1986, the University is required to verify and document the citizenship or employment authorization of each new employee.