Serials Cataloging Specialist

California Institute of Technology; Pasadena (CA); Remote; USD 43,000 - 47,000; Part time

Job summary

Caltech Library seeks a part-time, temporary Serials Cataloging Librarian to lead a large-scale holdings data migration and enhancement project. The role focuses on transforming item-level data into structured holdings in FOLIO, and establishing holdings in OCLC and HathiTrust.

The position is benefits-eligible, fully remote, 20 hours/week for 12 months, with emphasis on metadata standards, QA, and workflow documentation.

Qualifications

• Demonstrated knowledge of MARC Format for Holdings Data.
• Working knowledge of ANSI/NISO Z39.71 standards.
• Experience manipulating, analyzing, and validating large spreadsheet datasets.
• Experience performing metadata quality control and data remediation.
• Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively.
• Excellent written documentation and communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Transform existing item-level data into holding records using MARC metadata standards and project specs.
• Collaborate with library staff to identify, analyze, and remediate exceptions and edge cases after transformation.
• Perform batch uploads of holdings records into FOLIO and verify migration success.
• Remove obsolete NISO Z39.44 holdings summaries to support ANSI/NISO Z39.71-based management.
• Create OCLC Local Holdings Records from holdings records via batch workflows.
• Export new holding records for submission to HathiTrust and validate data.
• Document workflows, decisions, and project progress for future maintenance.
• Participate in project meetings and provide regular status updates.

Skills

MARC Holdings

ANSI/NISO z39.71

Large datasets

Metadata QC

Analytical skills

Independent & collaborative

Documentation skills

Tools

FOLIO

OCLC Local Holdings Records

HathiTrust

Job description

Caltech is a world-renowned science and engineering institute that marshals some of the world's brightest minds and most innovative tools to address fundamental scientific questions. We thrive on finding and cultivating talented people who are passionate about what they do. Join us and be a part of the diverse Caltech community.

Job Summary

The Caltech Library seeks a part-time, temporary Serials Cataloging Librarian. The Serials Cataloging Librarian will spearhead a large-scale holdings data migration and enhancement project. Working collaboratively with library staff, the Serials Cataloging Librarian will transform item-level data into structured holdings records within the Library Services Platform, FOLIO, and establish corresponding holdings records in OCLC and HathiTrust.

The mission of the Caltech Library is to provide access to library resources and information services of the highest quality in a timely, cost-effective manner in support of the research and educational programs of the Institute.

This Serials Cataloging Librarian is a benefits-eligible, fully remote, part-time position working 20 hours per week for the period of twelve (12) months. The incumbent will focus on improving the accuracy, consistency, and discoverability of the Library's collections by applying national holdings standards, conducting quality control review, and documenting workflows throughout the project. The successful candidate will possess strong knowledge of holdings metadata standards, experience working with large datasets, and the ability to analyze and resolve complex metadata issues.

Job Duties

• Transform existing item-level data into holding records using established MARC metadata standards and project specifications.
• Collaborate with library staff to identify, analyze, and remediate exceptions, anomalies, and edge cases as a result of automated transformation.
• Perform batch uploads of newly created holdings records into FOLIO and verify the successful migration of holdings data.
• Remove obsolete NISO Z39.44 holdings summaries from bibliographic records to support the transition to ANSI/NISO Z39.71-based holdings management.
• Create OCLC Local Holdings Records from newly established holdings records using batch processing workflows.
• Export new holding records for submission to HathiTrust and validate data for accuracy.
• Document workflows, procedures, decisions, and project progress to support future maintenance and knowledge transfer.
• Participate in project meetings and provide regular status updates regarding milestones, challenges, and recommendations.

Required Qualifications

• Demonstrated knowledge of MARC Format for Holdings Data.
• Working knowledge of ANSI/NISO Z39.71 standards.
• Experience manipulating, analyzing, and validating large spreadsheet datasets.
• Experience performing metadata quality control and data remediation.
• Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively.
• Excellent written documentation and communication skills.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience working with FOLIO.
• Familiarity with serials cataloging practices and holdings management.
• Experience creating or maintaining OCLC Local Holdings Records.
• Familiarity with batch metadata processing and migration projects.
• Knowledge of HathiTrust metadata submission requirements.

Required Documents

• Resume
• Cover Letter

This position is eligible for a remote work option, subject to institutional review.

• An approved remote work agreement is required.
• In accordance with Caltech's remote work guidelines, responsible for having a designated work area (home office) and for any costs related to remodeling and/or the initial setup of such designated workspace.
• Equipment needs for remote work are determined on a case-by-case basis.
• Experience with Zoom and other similar video/web conference software required.
• Report to the office as necessary by operational needs and provide in-office coverage as required.

Hiring Range

$31.00 - $34.00 Per Hour

The salary of the finalist(s) selected for this role will be set based on a variety of factors, including but not limited to, internal equity, experience, education, specialty and training.

As one of the largest employers in Pasadena, CA, Caltech is committed to providing comprehensive benefits to eligible employees and their eligible dependents. Our benefits package includes competitive compensation, health, dental, and vision insurance, retirement savings plans, generous paid time off (vacation, holidays, sick time, parental leave, bereavement, etc.), tuition reimbursement, and more. Non-benefit eligible employees will have access to some benefits such as onsite counseling and sick time. Learn more about our benefits and staff perks.

EEO Statement

Caltech is an equal opportunity employer and, as a federal contractor, takes affirmative action to employ qualified individuals with disabilities and protected veterans. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

Disability Accommodations

Caltech complies with the Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA) and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). We consider reasonable accommodation measures that may be necessary for eligible applicants and employees to perform the essential functions of a position.

If you would like to request an accommodation to complete this application, interview, or otherwise participate in the employee selection process, please contact Caltech Recruiting at [e-mail].

Additionally, if you do not meet the basic qualifications of a role but believe you can perform the essential functions of the job with reasonable accommodation, please reach out to Caltech Recruiting at [e-mail].