Head Cataloger

About This Role

LightFeather is hiring a Head Cataloger to lead a major Integrated Library System (ILS) migration, focusing on the Ex Libris Alma / Primo VE / Alma Digital platform. This role involves complex metadata projects, system migrations, and extensive collaboration with both vendor and in-house library teams.

Responsibilities

• Support the implementation of Ex Libris Alma / Primo VE / Alma Digital
• Serve as the lead cataloging expert during all phases of the migration and go-live
• Assist in extracting bibliographic, holdings, item, authority, and digital object data from the existing SirsiDynix ILS
• Assist in extracting relevant data and content from the existing Knowvation system
• Contribute to mapping legacy metadata to Ex Libris Alma/Primo VE/Digital data models and fields
• Collaborate with staff to validate transformation rules and manage test data loads
• Review and verify imported data for accuracy, integrity, and compliance with cataloging and metadata standards
• Lead post-migration cleanup of records, including correcting broken links, resolving duplicate or incomplete records, and enforcing consistent authority and subject usage
• Refine and validate configurations that affect discovery, display, and access in Primo VE and Alma Digital
• Apply advanced knowledge of MARC21, RDA, AACR2, LCSH, and LC Classification to maintain high-quality metadata
• Provide guidance on metadata standards and best practices tailored to Alma/Primo VE/Digital workflows
• Document cataloging decisions, local practices, workflows, and configuration changes
• Support informal training and knowledge transfer to NDU Library staff on new cataloging workflows and practices in Alma/Primo VE

Requirements

• U.S. Citizenship
• Master of Library Science (MLS/MLIS) from an ALA-accredited institution (or equivalent)
• Demonstrated professional experience functioning at a Head Cataloger or senior cataloging level in an academic or research library
• Proven expertise with MARC21, RDA, AACR2, Library of Congress Subject Headings (LCSH), Library of Congress Classification, and authority control
• Experience working with integrated library systems (ILS) in a production library environment
• Experience participating in or supporting system migrations or large-scale metadata or data cleanup projects
• Strong attention to detail, analytical skills, and problem-solving ability for complex metadata and system issues
• Strong written and verbal communication skills and the ability to collaborate with both vendor and internal teams

Qualifications

• Master of Library Science (MLS/MLIS) from an ALA-accredited institution (or equivalent)
• Demonstrated professional experience functioning at a Head Cataloger or senior cataloging level in an academic or research library is required.

Nice to Have

• Experience with Ex Libris Alma, Primo VE, or Alma Digital
• Familiarity with SirsiDynix system functionality and data structures
• Familiarity with Knowvation system functionality and data structures
• Experience with post-migration record cleanup and configuration in modern library platforms
• Experience working in academic, military, or federal library environments
• Experience developing or updating local cataloging policies, workflows, and metadata documentation

Skills

* Required skills