Job Description

Data Management Specialist

The Data Management Specialist ensures the integrity of data in a wide variety of library data platforms. These include the library services platform and various digital asset management systems, as well as other related products and tools. The position collaborates with departments throughout the libraries to evaluate, create, and improve metadata using a range of library and cultural heritage standards. The position works closely with colleagues to optimize data to improve resource discovery across platforms.

Responsibilities:

• Manages discrete large-scale metadata, maintenance, and enhancement projects within the Library Services Platform (LSP), utilizing advanced global and bulk editing tools, both internal and external to the system;
• Serves as a key collaborator with functional units across the Libraries to assess and meet evolving metadata and discovery needs; and
• Interprets and applies national and international cataloging standards (e.g., RDA, MARC) alongside local procedures to ensure data integrity, consistency, and alignment with institutional priorities.

• Creates, edits, and transforms descriptive metadata for digital collections, including rare and special collections, in multiple digital collections platforms and in multiple formats;
• Collaborates closely with departments across the libraries to determine and meet metadata and discovery needs specific to their materials and platform use;
• Proactively explores new tools and develops workflows to reflect evolving library processes; and
• Interprets and applies national and international cultural heritage standards (e.g., Dublin Core, MODS) alongside local procedures to ensure data integrity, consistency, and alignment with institutional priorities.

• Acquires and batch loads MARC catalog records and other data into the Library Services Platform (LSP), ensuring data integrity, consistency, and alignment with metadata standards;
• Identifies and harvests records from external sources, executing complex bulk edits and managing large-scale data integration workflows;
• Designs and maintains import profiles to support efficient, accurate data ingestion, and conducts quality assurance reviews to ensure records meet institutional and national cataloging standards; and
• Serves as a key point of contact across multiple departments for data load operations, proactively communicating status updates, and coordinating with Access & Resource Management staff to support seamless discovery and access.

Other duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications:

• High school diploma or equivalent;
• Library work experience (including volunteering or internships);
• Experience working with metadata for library, archival, or cultural heritage resources;
• Advanced working knowledge of spreadsheet software such as Excel or OpenRefine;
• Knowledge of library or cultural heritage metadata standards such as MARC, Dublin Core, MODS, or VRA Core;
• Demonstrated analytical, detail-oriented problem-solving, and creative thinking skills, working both independently and with others;
• Well-developed service orientation skills and understanding of functional work and its impact on other library units as well as the user community;
• Ability to work independently, but also as part of a team in a fast-paced, production- and service-oriented environment; and
• Strong organizational skills, including the ability to manage competing priorities, meet deadlines, and exercise good judgement.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in related field;
• Experience creating original metadata for library, archival, or cultural heritage resources;
• Experience working with Ex Libris Alma LSP;
• Demonstrated skill in one or more library or cultural heritage metadata standards;
• Working knowledge of batch record editing (e.g., MarcEdit); and
• Proficiency in library services platforms (e.g., Alma), discovery and access systems, bibliographic utilities (e.g., OCLC WorldShare), and related systems and tools.

Instructions to Applicants:

For full consideration, applicants must apply for the Data Management Specialist at

Complete and submit the online application to include three professional references with contact information, and provide a cover letter and resume for review.

Posting Open Date: January 7, 2026

For Full Consideration, Apply by: January 21, 2026

Open Until Filled: Yes

Each agency within the Commonwealth of Virginia is dedicated to recruiting, supporting, and maintaining a competent and diverse work force. Equal Opportunity Employer

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