Data Operations Specialist - University of Chicago

Reporting to and under the direction of the Head of Data Management Services, the Library Data Operations Specialist contributes to the management of the Library’s collections data. Working primarily with the FOLIO library services platform and the MetaDB library data platform, the Specialist is responsible for data querying, analysis, transformation, and ingest activities for the Library’s bibliographic, holdings, item and other collections data in support of the Library’s operational needs and strategic priorities. This role involves collaborating with Library staff across the Library including Technical Services, Integrated Library Systems (ILS), D’Angelo Law Library, and the East Asian Collection on activities such as data standardization and enrichment, collection management and reporting, and workflow optimization.

Department

Library C & A - Tech Serv -Data Mgmt Services

Widely known as guardian of one of the largest academic library collections in North America, the University of Chicago Library is redefining its role as a provider of services within an increasingly open global knowledge ecosystem. We value open and equitable access to knowledge, freedom of speech and inquiry, and working in partnership within and beyond the UChicago community. We are creating a working environment that embraces innovation and respect and that celebrates and develops staff.

As part of the University of Chicago, we offer a wide variety of strong benefits and programs to academics and staff. From a choice of comprehensive health plan options and wellness programs, short- and long-term disability insurance, continuing education opportunities including educational assistance plans, competitive retirement plans and paid time off (vacation, personal and University holidays), we’re committed to providing benefits and a work environment that matters!

Responsibilities

• Designs and implements data pipelines for the batch transformation of bibliographic, holdings, and item metadata for the modernization and standardization of the library’s collection data.
• Provides support for acquisitions, cataloging, and electronic resource metadata imports.
• Generates collections related reports in support of technical services and Library-wide operations and projects.
• Collaborates with the Technical Services Policy group and other library committees, working groups, and project teams to optimize data pipelines for the library catalog and ensures compliance with local and community data standards.
• Creates and maintains workflow and project documentation.
• Actively participates in FOLIO SIGs and working groups to improve the overall functionality of FOLIO, particularly in the areas of data import, bulk edit, and reporting.
• Develops and maintains knowledge in the management of library collections data and contributes to the development of best practices in Library Technical Services.
• The job provides professional support and solves straightforward problems in a library unit in the acquisition and processing of library materials and resources. Resolves processing problems with units.
• Assists in setting policies for collections. Participates in designing and implementing workflows for acquiring materials for collections.
• Performs other related work as needed.

Minimum Qualifications

Education:

Minimum requirements include a college or university degree in related field.

Work Experience:

Minimum requirements include knowledge and skills developed through 2-5 years of work experience in a related job discipline.

Certifications:

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Preferred Qualifications

Education:

• Master’s degree in library and information science, or related field.

Experience:

• Relevant experience working with metadata and metadata systems, preferably within an academic library.
• Performing complex export/transform/load or data ingest projects.

Technical Skills or Knowledge:

• Demonstrated ability to read and write documentation.
• Proficiency working with library metadata in MARC, XML, and JSON formats with tools such as MarcEdit, OpenRefine, Excel, APIs, and with languages such as SQL and Python.
• Knowledge of metadata principles and standards.

Preferred Competencies

• Strong understanding of data management practices.
• Interact with and collaborate effectively and collegially with Library colleagues and external partners.

Working Conditions

• Hybrid/Remote

Application Documents

• Resume/CV (required)

When applying, the document(s) MUST be uploaded via the My Experience page, in the section titled Application Documents of the application.

Job Family

Library

Role Impact

Individual Contributor

Scheduled Weekly Hours

37.5

Drug Test Required

No

Health Screen Required

No

Motor Vehicle Record Inquiry Required

No

Pay Rate Type

Hourly

FLSA Status

Non-Exempt

Pay Range

$26.15 - $30.76

The included pay rate or range represents the University’s good faith estimate of the possible compensation offer for this role at the time of posting.

Benefits Eligible

Yes

The University of Chicago offers a wide range of benefits programs and resources for eligible employees, including health, retirement, and paid time off. Information about the benefit offerings can be found in the Benefits Guidebook

Posting Statement

The University of Chicago is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, or expression, national or ethnic origin, shared ancestry, age, status as an individual with a disability, military or veteran status, genetic information, or other protected classes under the law. For additional information please see the University's Notice of Nondiscrimination.

Job seekers in need of a reasonable accommodation to complete the application process should call 773-702-5800 or submit a request via Applicant Inquiry Form.

All offers of employment are contingent upon a background check that includes a review of conviction history.  A conviction does not automatically preclude University employment.  Rather, the University considers conviction information on a case-by-case basis and assesses the nature of the offense, the circumstances surrounding it, the proximity in time of the conviction, and its relevance to the position.

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