Music Cataloging and Subject Specialist - Rice University - Houston, TX

Music Cataloging and Subject Specialist – Rice University – Houston, TX

Houston, TX, United States (Hybrid)

Music Cataloging and Subject Specialist

This is a cataloging position focusing on music and audio resources. The Music Cataloging and Subject Specialist provides leadership in evaluation and application of current and emerging cataloging standards. Provides training or technical advice to library staff regarding resource description and metadata assignment. Advises patrons regarding audio recording equipment and metadata best practices. This position also manages the resource budget and provides support to the Shepherd School of Music (SSOM), one of the country’s youngest and most prestigious university‑level programs.

Primary work location and reporting to the Fondren Library.

The ideal candidate for this role has demonstrable cataloging mastery pertaining to music and audio resources. They can describe nuances in these resources with nationally recognized vocabularies and standards. They are able to select and support the use of these resources by world‑class musicians, faculty, and staff who likewise have specialized music expertise. The candidate should enjoy outreach and specialized reference activities in order to promote these library resources to professors, staff, and students.

Following a six‑month probationary period, this full‑time position is offered as a hybrid role, combining both in‑office and remote work to provide flexibility and support collaboration. The role is expected to be on campus 80% of working hours, though additional remote work time may be arranged. Per Rice policy 440, work arrangements may be subject to change.

This is a full‑time, benefits‑eligible position, and the proposed salary range is $68,000 – 71,000 annually, depending on qualifications and experience. Exempt positions under FLSA are not eligible for overtime.

• Master’s Degree from an ALA‑accredited program or equivalent library and/or information science program
• Two or more years of experience working in an academic library (professional librarian or paraprofessional)

• Thorough knowledge of MARC cataloging standards and practices
• Knowledge of library music vendor services; this role helps to develop and manage music collections in support of the SSOM
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Proven ability to solve problems
• Outreach skills to promote library music resources and guide SSOM faculty, staff, and students in their effective use
• Flexibility in performing different tasks as library needs change
• Commitment to enhancing services through teamwork
• Ability to prioritize work to ensure departmental and library goals are realized
• Demonstrated commitment to staff development and continuing education
• Knowledge of integrated library systems, particularly Alma/Primo

• Master’s Degree in Music is highly preferred
• Public speaking or teaching skills; this role may occasionally provide orientation or promotional sessions on music resources for classes or groups
• Knowledge/experience of music production, including using portable equipment to record solos and recitals off campus, troubleshooting audio‑video equipment, proper mic/camera placements for different performances, and best practices for music recording

• Provides original cataloging and leadership to describe and enable access to musical works (such as scores, monographs related to music, and CDs) acquired by Fondren Library
• Provides outreach to the SSOM including meeting with faculty and staff to align library resources with SSOM needs
• Responsible for music‑related authority control
• Stays current with national cataloging standards, responsible for interpreting and adapting those for local purposes
• Participates in departmental and library‑wide committees and work groups established to further various aspects of the Fondren Library mission
• Develops and manages music resource collections (print, electronic, and audio) in Fondren Library and responds to music resource acquisition requests
• Field reference requests related to music
• Performs all other duties as assigned

• Assis…