Scribe Operator (Part Time)

Internet Archive Canada; Edmonton; On-site; CAD 30,000 - 60,000; Part time

Job summary

A non-profit digitization organization is seeking a part-time Scribe Operator to operate a scanning machine for digitizing books. The candidate must have strong technical skills, attention to detail, and be able to perform repetitive tasks effectively. Responsibilities include scanning images, assessing quality, and communication about issues. The role requires standing for shifts and occasionally lifting books. Ideal for individuals passionate about books and digital libraries.

Qualifications

• Strong technical skills are preferred, including knowledge of email and spreadsheets.
• Attention to detail is crucial for assessing image quality.
• Ability to communicate effectively about problems and solutions.

Responsibilities

• Digitally scan images of pages in books and manuscripts.
• Assess image quality and troubleshoot scanning issues.
• Lift and move stacks of books and stand at the scanning station.

Skills

Technical skills

Attention to detail

Written communication

Verbal communication

Job description

The Scribe Operator will operate a "Scribe" digitization machine that takes digital photos of books from various collections and displays them online for universal access.

The Internet Archive Canada is a non‑profit organization working with 80+ world‑class universities and libraries to create the world's largest digital open library. We partner with institutions (in this case, University of Alberta) to digitize and share unique collections of bound materials.

Gain experience in the following fields of endeavour: building an open source digital library, digital photography and digital scanning software, preservation and handling of special collections, presentation and production of digital books.

Responsibilities And Duties

• Digitally scan images of pages in books and manuscripts using established processes and procedures.
• Ability to assess image quality and determine if a page has been skipped.
• Ability to troubleshoot and, if that fails, to communicate with others about problems or solutions.
• Working knowledge of computers, e‑mail, and spreadsheets – strong technical skills are preferred.
• Must be able to lift and move stacks of books (5‑15 lbs. each) short distances, stand at a Scribe station, and perform reaching motions across a table to align material to scan.
• A high tolerance for repetitive tasks and expert attention to detail is necessary.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• A love of books is a plus!

Physical/Special Requirements

• Walking: Ability to move about on foot to accomplish tasks, to pick up materials to scan.
• Lifting: Ability to raise and lower objects horizontally from position to position and lift up to 25 pounds safely.
• Pushing/Pulling: Ability to use upper extremities to exert force in order to draw, haul or tug carts in a sustained push or pull motion.
• Seeing: Required to have close visual acuity to determine the accuracy, neatness and thoroughness of scanning activity, able to see in low light situations.
• Standing: Works at a standing desk 100% of the time. Must be able to stand at a scanning station for full shift length.
• Scanning: Ability to stand at work station, use hands and arms to reach across a table to align material and to use eyes to see materials being scanned.

Cognitive Considerations

• Must have the ability to read, write in English and organize materials.
• Must be able to relate to other people in a professional manner.
• Ability to remain focused despite internal and external distractions.
• Must exhibit good safety awareness and judgment.

This is a part‑time hourly position with up to 20 hours per week available. Must have availability for 4‑5 hour shifts between 8:00 am – 4:00 pm Monday to Friday to work at the South campus of University of Alberta.

We are grateful to all applicants but will only respond to those inquiries we would like to proceed with.

Internet Archive Canada is committed to an equitable, diverse, and inclusive workforce. We welcome applications from all qualified persons. We encourage women; First Nations, Métis and Inuit persons; members of visible minority groups; persons with disabilities; persons of any sexual orientation or gender identity and expression; and all those who may contribute to the further diversification of ideas and perspectives to apply.