Cataloging Assistant

The Cataloging Assistant supports the operations of the Law Library's Cataloging Department. The primary responsibilities of this position are creating and editing metadata at all levels, as well as collaborating on and participating in special cataloging and collection maintenance projects. This position is covered by the AFSCME Technical Union. Union/Fair share deductions may be made. Scheduled work days: Monday - Friday (year round).

Essential Functions

Metadata Creation and Editing (60%)

• Create, enhance, and edit metadata for Law Library resources in all formats to reflect current metadata standards and to ensure optimal access to Law Library collections.
• Perform a combination of copy, complex copy, and original cataloging, including descriptive cataloging, authority work, subject assignment, and classification.
• Perform routine catalog maintenance duties.

Workflow and Collaboration (35%)

• In collaboration with the department supervisor, organize and participate in special cataloging and collection maintenance projects and perform related data cleanup or record maintenance tasks.
• Resolve problems and issues submitted by Law Library or University Libraries staff and patrons when possible; refer to other staff when necessary.
• Participate in committees and working groups and interact with Law Library and University Libraries staff to problem-solve, create work procedures, and improve workflow.
• Assist the department with writing and review of documentation.
• Maintain and compile cataloging and workflow statistics.
• Collaborate with Law Library staff and participate in departmental and interdepartmental meetings, projects, and events.
• Interact with other Law School departments and serve on Law School committees as appropriate.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Continuing Education (5%)

• With guidance from the department supervisor, engage in continuing education related to the position's responsibilities by attending workshops, webinars, and other professional development activities.
• Share expertise and knowledge with others in the Law Library as appropriate.

Required Qualifications

• High school diploma/GED.
• Five years relevant library experience. College education may be substituted for experience on a year for year basis up to three years.
• Demonstrated proficiency using common software and computer systems, including the ability to navigate bibliographic databases.
• Demonstrated ability to complete work accurately with high attention to detail and in a timely manner.
• Demonstrated skills in communication, customer service, collaboration, and problem-solving.
• Demonstrated ability to maintain established work standards and procedures, as well as adapt easily to procedural changes.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently and to work effectively with others.

Preferred Qualifications

• Knowledge in the area of cataloging/metadata, including knowledge of national and international standards such as RDA, Library of Congress Subject Headings, Library of Congress Classification, and MARC formats.
• Experience with Alma or other integrated library systems (ILS).
• Experience with legal materials.
• Demonstrated ability to take initiative and independently prioritize multiple and competing work assignments.

The Law Library Cataloging Department's primary mission is to provide optimal access to the Law Library's collections and electronic resources. The Cataloging Department enhances end-user discovery of Law Library resources through its practical application of metadata schemata, and transformation and repurposing of data. The Cataloging Department is responsible for cataloging Law Library resources in all formats, authority control, and database maintenance of Law Library records in the University of Minnesota enterprise library management system. Bibliographic control of materials in all formats is consistently maintained through adherence to international, national, and local standards. The department also participates in planning and managing collection maintenance projects. The department remains flexible to respond to the changing needs of all users and staff. The department consists of 1 Librarian supervisor and 1 Labor Represented FTE.

Pay Range: $57,740.80 - $68,972.80 (Step 5 - Step 14); depending on education/qualifications/experience

Time Appointment: 100% Appointment, 12 month

Position Type: Non-Faculty Labor Represented Staff (AFSCME Unit 7 - Technical)

Please visit the Office of Human Resources website for more information regarding benefit eligibility.

The University offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes:

• Competitive wages, paid holidays, and generous time off
• Continuous learning opportunities through professional training and degree-seeking programs supported by the Regents Tuition Benefit Program
• Low-cost medical, dental, and pharmacy plans
• Healthcare and dependent care flexible spending accounts
• University HSA contributions
• Disability and employer-paid life insurance
• Employee wellbeing program
• Excellent retirement plans with employer contribution
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) opportunity
• Financial counseling services
• Employee Assistance Program with eight sessions of counseling at no cost
• Employee Transit Pass with free or reduced rates in the Twin Cities metro area

Applications must be submitted online. To be considered for this position, please click the Apply button and follow the instructions. You will have the opportunity to complete an online application for the position and attach a cover letter and resume.

Additional documents may be attached after application by accessing your "My Job Applications" page and uploading documents in the "My Cover Letters and Attachments" section.

Please include a resume for a complete application.

Applications received by December 1st, 2025, will receive priority consideration. The position will remain open until filled.

To request an accommodation during the application process, please e-mail employ@umn.edu or call (612) 624-UOHR (8647).

The University recognizes and values the importance of diversity and inclusion in enriching the employment experience of its employees and in supporting the academic mission. The University is committed to attracting and retaining employees with varying identities and backgrounds.

The University of Minnesota provides equal access to and opportunity in its programs, facilities, and employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. To learn more about diversity at the U: http://diversity.umn.edu

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC)

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC), is among the largest public research universities in the country, offering undergraduate, graduate, and professional students a multitude of opportunities for study and research. Located at the heart of one of the nation's most vibrant, diverse metropolitan communities, students on the campuses in Minneapolis and St. Paul benefit from extensive partnerships with world-renowned health centers, international corporations, government agencies, and arts, nonprofit, and public service organizations.

At the University of Minnesota, we are proud to be recognized by the Star Tribune as a Top Workplace for 2021, as well as by Forbes as Best Employers for Women and one of America's Best Employers (2015, 2018, 2019, 2023), Best Employer for Diversity (2019, 2020), Best Employer for New Grads (2018, 2019), and Best Employer by State (2019, 2022).