Metadata Initiatives Program Officer

Position Overview The Center for Research Libraries (CRL) seeks an innovative, collaborative, and community-oriented Program Officer for Metadata Initiatives to lead strategic metadata programs that advance both CRL’s internal goals and the collective priorities of its member institutions. This position plays a dual role: • Internally, the Program Officer guides and implements transformative metadata strategies, including leading a major AI-assisted initiative to enhance access to CRL’s six million-item collection. • Externally, the Program Officer builds and supports a vibrant, member-driven community of practice for collaborative metadata creation, shared cataloging infrastructure, and discovery innovation Reporting to the Director of Collections, Access and Technology, this role supervises CRL’s internal metadata specialists and works cross-functionally with teams spanning collections, digital services, systems, and user experience. The ideal candidate will combine deep knowledge of metadata standards with the skills to facilitate partnerships and empower community-led progress in shared metadata work. While onsite or hybrid work is preferred, fully remote arrangements will be considered for candidates who demonstrate exceptional qualifications. Key Responsibilities Strategic Leadership & Program Management • Working closely with the Director of Collections, Access & Technology, lead the development and implementation of CRL’s organizational metadata strategy, aligning internal workflows with external, member-informed priorities. • Manage large-scale, cross-functional metadata initiatives, including a major AI-assisted project to expand metadata coverage and access. • Assess project impact, develop sustainable workflows, and adapt strategies to evolving standards, technologies, and research needs. Internal Collaboration & Staff Supervision • Coordinate with departments across CRL to support scalable, consistent, and standards-aligned metadata practices. • Supervise and mentor a team of metadata and cataloging specialists, promoting collaboration and professional growth. • Ensure compliance with evolving metadata standards (e.g., RDA, MARC, BIBFRAME, linked data) and promote inclusive, ethical description practices. Community Engagement & Program Development • Cultivate and support a member-led community of practice around collaborative cataloging and shared metadata strategies. • Facilitate cross-institutional projects and working groups that align with member needs and priorities. • Represent CRL in external metadata communities, consortia, and professional associations. Outreach, Training & Capacity Building • Share CRL’s metadata work through presentations, publications, webinars, and external collaborations. • Develop documentation, training materials, and guidance to support participation in CRL-led metadata initiatives. • Promote open, ethical, and interoperable metadata practices that improve discoverability and access across institutions. Apply tot his job