Leader, Middle Eastern Languages Team (Cataloging) at Princeton University

METRO | 599; Princeton (NJ); On-site; USD 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Princeton University Library seeks a Leader for the Middle Eastern Languages Team in the Cataloging and Metadata Services Department. The role emphasizes supervision and development of cataloging staff for Middle Eastern languages, requiring an MLS or advanced degree in Middle Eastern studies and strong Arabic skills. Responsibilities include developing policies, managing workflows, and exploring new technologies. This position fosters diversity and encourages candidates from various backgrounds to apply. Applications are accepted at the Jobs at Princeton website.

Qualifications

• MLS combined with academic background in Middle Eastern studies or an advanced degree and 2 years experience in a research library.
• Strong reading knowledge of Arabic is essential.
• Minimum of three years cataloging experience applying current standards.

Responsibilities

• Supervise, motivate, and develop staff cataloging Middle Eastern language materials.
• Collaborate with Team Leaders to develop cataloging policies.
• Explore and implement new technologies to enhance user services.

Skills

Strong reading knowledge of Arabic

Analytical and problem-solving skills

Communication skills

Ability to plan and lead projects

Education

MLS or advanced degree in Middle Eastern studies

Job description

Leader, Middle Eastern Languages Team (Cataloging)

Princeton University Library (PUL) seeks candidates for the position of Leader, Middle Eastern Languages Team in the Cataloging and Metadata Services Department. The MELT Leader must be strongly versed in Arabic and the history and cultures of the Middle East and possess the qualities and experience necessary to lead the team in the creation and management of metadata for discovery of the Library’s renowned Near East collections. This position will be located in the Library’s off-campus office.

Princeton University Library is one of the world’s foremost research libraries. Serving researchers from around the world, it is a vibrant hub of activity for exploration and discovery. Holdings include millions of books, journals, manuscripts, and non-print items in over 200 languages. The Library provides on-site and remote access to thousands of databases, digitized collections, sound recordings, musical scores, films, and more.

Primary Responsibilities

• Supervise, motivate, and provide ongoing staff development for staff cataloging Middle Eastern language materials. Monitor cataloging productivity and ensure the quality of the cataloging output. Oversee the team operations and processing of materials acquired.
• Collaborate with the Team Leaders Group to develop cataloging policies and procedures; collaborate with library staff across the system on digital projects and Middle Eastern language catalog-related needs
• Explore and implement new technologies, standards, and workflows to improve turn-­around time and enhance user services
• Maintain awareness of peer operations and best practices through professional involvement
• Participate in professional activities, scholarship, and committee assignments within the Library, on campus, and in professional associations at a level to meet criteria for continuing appointment

Key Qualifications

Required

• MLS combined with an academic background in Middle Eastern studies; or an advanced degree in Middle Eastern studies and a minimum of two years of experience in a research library
• Strong reading knowledge of Arabic
• Minimum three years of cataloging experience applying current standards
• Ability to plan and lead projects and manage workflows
• Analytical and problem‑solving skills
• Communication skills to express technical topics in audience-appropriate fashion, including formal documentation

Preferred

• Demonstrated supervisory experience, including training and staff development
• Reading knowledge of Urdu, Persian, and/or other Middle Eastern languages
• Thorough understanding of cataloging principles and familiarity with current developments in resource description, along with flexibility and adaptability in the context of conceptual and technological change
• Experience providing cataloging and metadata for digital formats, and in creating and editing non-MARC metadata using standards and schema such as Dublin Core, MODS, etc.
• Experience demonstrating initiative implementing new technologies to improve cataloging

The successful candidate will be appointed to an appropriate rank depending upon qualifications and experience. Applications will be accepted only from the Jobs at Princeton website: http://dof.princeton.edu/academicjobs and must include a resume, cover letter, and a list of three references with full contact information. This position is subject to the University’s background check policy. To Apply, please visit: https://puwebp.princeton.edu/AcadHire/position/40982

Princeton University Library is committed to recruiting a diverse workforce and advancing the University’s commitment to racial equity within our community and in the world. We encourage candidates from all diverse backgrounds and life experiences to apply for our positions. To find out more about PUL’s work towards greater inclusivity, equity, and diversity, please see PUL’s “About” page.