Assistant Department Head

Assistant Department Head,
Cataloging & Metadata Services Department
University of Texas Libraries – The University of Texas at Austin


The Assistant Department Head, working with the Head Librarian of the Cataloging & Metadata Services Department, coordinates, plans and manages the staff and daily operations of the department. The successful candidate will be a team player with leadership abilities who will collaboratively develop new services and mentors department staff in the cataloging of all formats. This position will lead the development and application of policy, workflows, and project management, and be looked to for expertise in the use of metadata for digital projects. The position reports to the Head Librarian, Cataloging and Metadata Services Department. Working hours are normally Monday through Friday, 8am to 5pm.

In detail, responsibilities will include:
Supervising classified and profession staff totaling 6 FTE as well as the operations of the Serials, Monograph & Media and Copy-Cataloging Services units.
Serving as a resource person regarding cataloging issues both within the Department and in other areas of the Libraries.
Performing original and complex cataloging and authority work for all types of formats.
Managing and contributing cataloging and metadata for digital projects.
As a member of the Cataloging Management Committee, participating in developing cataloging policies and procedures, and in local implementation of changes in national standards, rules and best practices for cataloging.
In consultation with the Department Head and other staff, assisting to determine training needs and designs and/or coordinates and/or delivers the training curricula, and establishes performance standards for the cataloging staff.
Maintaining awareness of and engagement with national and international trends and developments in cataloging and metadata standards, bibliographic and authority control, and knowledge management.
Participating in library committees, task forces, and special projects, particularly those related to cataloging, metadata application and bibliographic control.
Leading or coordinating selected cataloging projects to be either outsourced or managed internally.

Required Qualifications: MLS from an ALA accredited graduate program. Experience cataloging in an academic or research library. A minimum of three years experience cataloging in an online environment. Demonstrated knowledge of cataloging standards, practices, and products, including but not limited to LC classification, LCSH, MARC formats, AACR2, LCRIs. Experience with OCLC Connexion and integrated library systems. Demonstrated experience cataloging a variety of materials or formats (monographs, serials, videos/DVDs, electronic, etc.). Experience directing and assessing the work of others in a supervisory role. Experience with staff training, including preparing handouts or other necessary documentation. Excellent interpersonal skills including oral and written communication and presentation skills.

Preferred Qualifications: Working knowledge of one or more Western European languages. Minimum of three years supervisory experience. Experience with a national cooperative cataloging program such as PCC (NACO, BIBCO, CONSER or SACO). Experience with serials cataloging using AACR2, LCSH, MARC21 formats, CONSER Manual and CONSER Editing Guide. Experience planning and managing projects. Experience with Millennium (Innovative Interfaces) software. Knowledge of non-MARC metadata schemes. Demonstrated participation in library, university, state, and national programs and initiatives. Evidence of well-developed interpersonal skills, team-building, initiative, creative energy, and resourcefulness. Demonstrated problem-solving skills.

Salary and Benefits: $55,000 - $65,000 annually, negotiable depending on qualifications and experience. No state or local income tax. Standard state benefits package including annual vacation and sick leave, paid holidays, retirement plans, and health insurance options (comprehensive major medical, dental, vision, life, and disability). Deferred compensation and tax sheltered annuity programs also available.

Recruiting Schedule: To receive consideration, application materials should be submitted by June 15, 2009. All interested candidates must complete an Online Application by going to: (http://www.utexas.edu/hr/prospective/apply/process.html#completing). Please refer to job posting number 09-05-06-01-0080 (http://utdirect.utexas.edu/pnjobs/pnjobsvw.WBX?job_nbr=090506010080) and follow applicant instructions given online. An email confirmation will be sent to those who apply online within 2-3 working days, along with a set of job-related questions that applicants will be asked to return to the department in order to complete their application materials. For questions regarding this recruitment, please contact: Carol Johnson: c-johnson@austin.utexas.edu [512-495-4375].

The University of Texas Libraries has a strong commitment to diversity and encourages applications and nominations from traditionally underrepresented groups.


An Equal Opportunity / Affirmative Action Employer