Digitization Specialist

Job Description:

Job Summary:

Reporting to the Digitization Manager, the Digitization Specialist works on all tasks related to the creation of digital collections from a wide range of materials held in the Libraryâ™s collections. From production operations through delivery, this staff person prepares, captures, reviews files, and generates derivative files for multiple projects as assigned. This position will work closely with the Digitization Manager to track complex projects and support vendor workflows.

Responsibilities:

• Manages various projects from beginning to end and ensures assigned projects and competing priorities are on target and meet completion deadlines through the usage of the production database.
• Creates high-resolution TIFF master files from paper based materials according to preservation standards using a variety of scanning equipment and software.
• Prepares original materials for in-house and/or vendor projects by assigning directory structures, assessing physical condition of items, and packing items for shipment.
• Conducts file management tasks and reviews master files for quality and accuracy on in-house and vendor generated files in accordance with digital standards and best practices.
• Produces structural metadata and derivative files for delivery using a variety of software; derivative formats could include XTF files, searchable pdfs, and structural metadata.
• Prepares media materials for vended digitization, receives return shipments and reviews master files for quality and completeness.
• Communicates effectively with project partners to ensure workflows run efficiently and files are delivered accurately and according to project standards.
• Works with the Digitization Manager to evaluate project workflows and equipment needs, in order to eliminate inefficiencies and ensure quality master files.

Competencies:

• Effectively applies technical knowledge to solve a range of problems
• Ensures that regular, consistent communications take place and fosters partnerships and collaboration.
• Tackles problems with a logical and systematic approach; identifies priorities in order to recognize and resolve or refer problems
• Carefully reviews and checks the accuracy of work
• Demonstrates openness and flexibility to new procedures and technology

Education, Experience, and Certifications:

Education:

• Bachelor's degree required, Bachelor of Arts in Photography preferred.

Experience:

• One to two years of previous work experience in a library, museum or other institution utilizing flatbed scanners and/or overhead scanners to produce preservation quality master files for archival purposes required
• One to two years of demonstrated photography experience in an institutional setting, required.
• Demonstrated strong organizational skills required
• Ability to communicate effectively in English, both orally and in writing required.
• Excellent interpersonal skills required.
• Flexibility and adaptability in managing tasks to meet changes in procedures, processes and technology required.
• Demonstrated ability to exercise sound judgment, practical problem-solving and decision-making skills required.
• Sensitivity to handling issues of rare and fragile library materials required.
• Demonstrated ability to work on multiple projects simultaneously, set priorities, and meet deadlines required.
• Demonstrated excellent critical thinking and problem solving skills utilizing appropriate resources to resolve issues required.
• Demonstrated attention to detail and accuracy required.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team required.
• Demonstrated experience in planning, coordinating, and executing digitization projects preferred.

Technical Knowledge or Skills:

• Experience producing preservation quality master and derivative files using software, such as Adobe Creative Suite and Adobe Acrobat Pro required.
• Experience working with complex databases and spreadsheets utilizing MS Excel and/or MS Access required.
• Familiarity with Windows 10 in a PC network environment and Microsoft Office 365 required.
• Ability to learn a range of position related software applications required
• Knowledge of library and archival digitization practices and standards (conforming to NARA, FADGI, Library of Congress) to ensure that digital files can be maintained over time in a preservation repository preferred.

Working Conditions and Physical Requirements (if applicable):

• Ability to carry or lift loads of up to 49 lbs. required.
• Ability to sit for 4 hours or more
• Ability to stand up to 4 hours
• Ability to use computers for 4 hours or more

Required Documents:

• Resume

NOTE:  When applying, all required documents MUST be uploaded under the Resume/CV section of the application.

Pay Range: $18.52 - $27.12

The University of Chicago is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity/Disabled/Veterans Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national or ethnic origin, age, status as an individual with a disability, protected veteran status, genetic information, or other protected classes under the law. For additional information please see the University's Notice of Nondiscrimination.

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

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