THE UNIVERSITY OF ARIZONA

 

Position Title: Multimedia and Digital Collections Archivist                  Job#: A20416

Department: University Libraries, Special Collections (Dept. 1706)  

Location: Main Campus, Tucson

Classification: Appointed; Full-Time; Exempt; Permanent

 

Position Summary:

The Multimedia and Digital Collections Archivist will provide leadership, project management, and oversee the creation, reformatting, transfer, development, and production of Special Collections analog/digital audio and video collections and other related materials and related projects.

This innovative, flexible, and energetic individual will work collaboratively and closely with the Digital Initiatives Archivist to develop and implement policies, procedures, and workflows and will work with Delivery, Description and Acquisitions (DDA) and the Office of Digital Innovation and Stewardship (ODIS) to create and assign metadata standards for related digital multimedia projects and initiatives. He or she, in partnership with the Digital Archivist, will be responsible for the management and preservation of electronic records and born-digital content.

This position will be expected to work collaboratively to build partnerships in the Special Collections Department, University Libraries and UA campus; will be responsible for developing and implementing policies for accessioning, appraisal, preservation, and description of, and access to, analog and digitally born digital audio/video collections by Special Collections. This position will also assist with outreach including digitization of multimedia collections (whole, in part, and in various formats for use of online and on-site interactive exhibits, and maintaining online presence via finding guides).

The ideal candidate should have (1) excellent organizational, analytical and problem solving skills with excellent attention to detail and a high level of accuracy, (2) ability to work both independently and collaboratively, (3) commitment to professional development and service, (4) strong communication and interpersonal skills, and (5) demonstrated ability to work collaboratively with diverse colleagues, faculty, students, donors and the public.

Work Schedule: Mon. – Fri. 8am-5pm. Reports To: Director of Special Collections, Stephen Hussman.

At the University of Arizona, we value our inclusive climate because we know that diversity in experiences and perspectives is vital to advancing innovation, critical thinking, solving complex problems, and creating an inclusive academic community. Diversity in our environment embraces the acceptance of a multiplicity of cultural heritages, lifestyles and worldviews. We translate these values into action by seeking individuals who have experience and expertise working with diverse students, colleagues and constituencies, as we believe that such experiences are both institutional and service imperatives. Because we seek a workforce with diverse perspectives and experiences, we encourage applications from individuals with demonstrated knowledge of and relevant abilities working with culturally diverse communities. As an Employer of National Service, we also welcome alumni of AmeriCorps, Peace Corps, and other national service programs.

Accepting a new position is a big life step. We want potential candidates and their families to be able to make informed decisions. Candidates who are considering relocation to the Tucson or Phoenix area, and have been offered an on-site interview, are encouraged to use the free services offered by Above & Beyond Relocation Services (ABRS) (http://www.aboveandbeyondrelo.com/package.asp). Ask your department contact to be introduced to ABRS prior to your visit.

 

The University of Arizona has been recognized on Forbes 2015 list of America’s Best Employers in the United States and has been awarded the 2015 Work-Life Seal of Distinction by the Alliance for Work-Life Progress! For more information about working at the University of Arizona, please see:

http://whyua.arizona.edu/.

Duties & Responsibilities:

• Primarily to lead, manage, and participate in projects related to preservation, transfer, and reformatting of electronic records, audio and video collections consisting of, but not limited to, audio cassettes, reel-to-reel tapes, vinyl recording discs, VHS, 8mm, Super-8, 16mm, and 35mm film and more, and preservation program planning in collaboration with stakeholders, collectively establishing policies and best practices for long-term preservation and access; other projects may involve arranging and describing born-digital collections.
• Develop and implement descriptive guidelines, workflows, and procedures for the A/V materials within Special Collections.
• Manage workflows with commercial audio/visual digitization vendors to ensure local preservation standards are implemented.
• Assist in the processing of both digital and paper-based multimedia and other collections by arranging and describing materials according to existing procedures.
• Develop and assist in implementing Special Collections digital outreach activities including various formats and materials for use in interactive exhibit platforms by researchers.
• Train and supervise GA’s, student assistants, specifically in the work mentioned above.
• Participate in reading room and other reference services regarding Special Collections holdings.
• Participate in overall planning, assessment, and policy development.
• Maintain awareness of emerging trends and developments in the field.
• Lead, manage, and participate in projects related to Special Collections digital collections and preservation program in collaboration with stakeholders, collectively establishing policies and best practices for the long-term protection of, preservation, and access to multimedia collections.
• Assist with training, technical advice and support to department and library staff regarding multimedia digitization standards and metadata assignments.
• Participate in the collaborative development of metadata/cataloging tools, and discovery and presentation tools and applications.
• Communicate openly and professionally with staff, colleagues, and the Library administration.
• Participate in promoting and providing visibility for a positive, responsive image of the Library and its services to the University community at large.

·         Other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications:

• ALA-accredited MLIS or equivalent.
• Experience processing archival collections (including digital/analog audio and video collections).
• Familiarity with data structure standards relevant to the archival control of digital materials.
• Demonstrated project management experience in an academic and a collaborative environment.
• Demonstrated technical experience with current digital collection technologies, standards, or metadata platforms, and products.
• Demonstrated knowledge of analog and physical audiovisual formats.
• Demonstrated knowledge of the use of digital audio and video editing and processing tools, Final Cut Pro, Adobe Premiere, and FFmpeg.
• Knowledge of audio and video digitization tools and practices.
• Demonstrated knowledge of the standards and technological framework for digital preservation.
• Demonstrated knowledge of and experience with metadata standards, or non MARC schemas, such as, Dublin Core, MODS, METS, EAD, VRA, and PB Core.

·         As this is a tenure-track position in the University of Arizona Libraries, the candidate will be required to undergo the Continuing Status and Promotion process. Candidates should familiarize themselves with the policies regarding the process by visiting: http://facultyaffairs.arizona.edu/continuing-status-and-promotion.

 

Preferred Qualifications:

• 2 years or more of professional experience in digital initiatives, digital collections or metadata services in an academic library.
• Experience with archival management systems such as ArchiveSpace.
• Familiarity with current standards and practices in metadata standards.
• Understanding, knowledge, and experience with use of digital forensic tools such as Rosetta.
• Demonstrated knowledge of the creation and use of digital objects.
• Experience in collaboratively managing multiple and simultaneous projects.

·         Familiarity with content management software, and knowledge of institutional repositories management, including policy matters, and intellectual property issues.

 

Salary/Benefits:  DOE/annually.  Outstanding UA benefits include health, dental, and vision insurance plans; life insurance and disability programs; paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays; UA/ASU/NAU tuition reduction for the employee and qualified family members; state and optional retirement plans; pre-tax savings plans; access to UA recreation and cultural activities; and more!

 

Opened: 11/02/15; Closes:  Open Until Filled.  First Review Date: 11/30/15.  Submittal of your application materials before the first review date guarantees consideration for the position.  Application materials mailed/emailed to the department will not be accepted. 

 

How to Apply:  Apply at: http://uacareers.com/postings/6672, Job #A20416. Complete an application form and include the names and contact information for 3 supervisors.  Be prepared to attach a resume and letter of interest that describes how your experience and qualifications are fitting for this position.  For questions regarding the application system contact: 520-621-3662; TDD 621-8299 (M-F 8-5).  For questions about the Libraries or status of the posting, contact Ms. Ellen Lawrence, Library – HR at 520-626-5971 or elawren1@email.arizona.edu.  The University of Arizona is an Equal Employment Opportunity/ Affirmative Action Employer - M/W/D/V.