Metadata Specialist Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the digital era, the importance of metadata specialists has never been greater.

As technology advances, the demand for skilled professionals who can organize, manage, and protect our digital information grows increasingly urgent.

But let’s delve deeper: What exactly is expected from a metadata specialist?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the core responsibilities of this role,
• A hiring manager drafting the profile of the perfect candidate,
• Or simply curious about the intricacies of metadata management,

You’ve landed in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable metadata specialist job description template, designed for effortless publishing on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right in.

Metadata Specialist Duties and Responsibilities

Metadata Specialists are responsible for managing data about other data (metadata), to ensure it is correctly classified, organized, and accessible.

They typically work in libraries, archives, or large businesses that deal with substantial amounts of data.

They have the following duties and responsibilities:

• Develop and implement metadata standards and best practices for data management
• Classify, catalog, and index data for easy retrieval and optimal usefulness
• Analyze metadata to study data usage and identify areas for improvement or increased efficiency
• Create, edit, and update metadata records and databases
• Collaborate with IT and other departments to ensure metadata requirements are met and implemented
• Assist in the development of data models and taxonomies
• Provide training and support to staff on metadata concepts, tools, and standards
• Conduct regular metadata audits to ensure accuracy and consistency
• Stay up to date with latest metadata trends, technologies, and standards

 

Metadata Specialist Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a detail-oriented Metadata Specialist to join our team.

The successful candidate will be responsible for creating, evaluating, and maintaining metadata to ensure optimal discovery of resources across our platforms.

The Metadata Specialist will also work closely with other team members to develop and implement metadata policies, procedures, and standards.

 

Responsibilities

• Create and maintain metadata for a wide range of digital and physical resources
• Collaborate with team members to develop and implement metadata policies, standards, and procedures
• Apply knowledge of current metadata schemas and standards (such as Dublin Core, MODS, METS, EAD)
• Perform quality control of metadata to ensure consistency and accuracy
• Assist in the development of controlled vocabularies and taxonomies
• Participate in the evaluation and testing of metadata tools and systems
• Provide guidance and training on metadata creation to other team members
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams on data integration projects

 

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a Metadata Specialist or similar role
• Knowledge of metadata standards, systems, and best practices
• Experience working with digital asset management systems
• Strong understanding of controlled vocabularies and taxonomies
• Detail-oriented with strong organizational and analytical skills
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Master’s degree in Library Science, Information Science or a related field

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Metadata Specialist
• Work Environment: Office setting with options for remote work. Some travel may be required for team meetings or trainings.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Metadata Manager or Information Management Director.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $55,000 minimum to $85,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Metadata Specialist Do?

Metadata Specialists typically work in industries such as libraries, archives, museums, government agencies, and IT companies.

They can also work as independent consultants.

Their primary responsibility is to develop and implement metadata schemas to assist in the organization and retrieval of information.

This can involve managing various aspects of metadata creation, including data entry, quality control, and metadata crosswalks.

Metadata Specialists often work in tandem with other information professionals, such as data analysts, librarians, and database administrators, to ensure that metadata standards are adhered to throughout the organization.

They review and update existing metadata records, ensuring that they are accurate, complete, and up-to-date.

They may also develop metadata policies and procedures to guide these updates.

They also use their knowledge of metadata standards and practices to train staff and stakeholders on how to correctly create and use metadata.

Furthermore, they may be involved in designing and implementing metadata-related software or tools, and work on improving search functionality to ensure users can efficiently locate and access data.

 

Metadata Specialist Qualifications and Skills

A Metadata Specialist should have a blend of technical skills, organizational abilities, and an understanding of information management.

These qualifications and skills may include:

• Advanced technical abilities to work with databases, metadata schemas, and related software applications.
• A thorough understanding of metadata standards and principles to ensure data is organized effectively and can be retrieved efficiently.
• Strong analytical skills to interpret complex information structures and translate them into coherent metadata frameworks.
• Excellent attention to detail to ensure accuracy and consistency in metadata entries.
• Proficient communication skills to collaborate with team members, understand project requirements, and provide clear explanations of metadata schemas and structures.
• Problem-solving abilities to identify and rectify issues with data entries or structures.
• Familiarity with data privacy standards and regulations to ensure that metadata management complies with legal requirements.
• A degree in information management, computer science, library science or a related field, with knowledge of data management and cataloguing principles.

 

Metadata Specialist Experience Requirements

Entry-level Metadata Specialists typically require 1 to 2 years of experience, often acquired through internships or part-time roles in library science, information management, or data analysis.

Gaining hands-on experience in roles such as Data Analyst, Information Specialist, or Database Administrator can be beneficial for these professionals.

Those with 3 to 5 years of experience usually refine their skills and deepen their understanding of metadata standards, taxonomy, and digital asset management in roles like Metadata Analyst, Taxonomy Specialist, or Digital Asset Manager.

Candidates possessing more than 5 years of experience may have already developed some leadership qualities and are well-versed in managing complex metadata frameworks.

They may be ready for senior roles or managerial positions, overseeing teams and strategic planning for metadata management and digital resource organization.

A strong familiarity with metadata tools, databases, and XML is generally required along with a background in cataloging, archiving, or digital libraries.

A Master’s degree in Library Science or Information Management is often preferred.

 

Metadata Specialist Education and Training Requirements

Metadata Specialists typically hold a bachelor’s degree in Library Science, Information Science, Computer Science or a related field.

Their coursework often includes database management, cataloging, classification, and metadata creation and management.

A strong background in computer programming and familiarity with languages such as XML, HTML, SQL, or Python is often beneficial.

Knowledge of metadata standards such as Dublin Core, METS, MODS, MARC21, and EAD is essential.

Some positions, particularly those in specialized or senior roles, may require a master’s degree in Library and Information Science or a related field, with a focus on digital libraries, information architecture, or data curation.

Certifications in metadata management, database management, or related areas can also be advantageous and are highly valued by employers.

In addition to formal education, practical experience in creating, editing, and managing metadata in a library, archive, or other data-intensive environment is often required.

Continuing education and professional development opportunities, such as workshops, webinars, and courses, are also beneficial in keeping up with developments in the field.

 

Metadata Specialist Salary Expectations

A Metadata Specialist earns an average salary of $68,487 (USD) per year.

However, the actual salary can vary depending on factors such as the level of experience, education, industry, and the geographical location of the job.

 

Metadata Specialist Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Metadata Specialist need?

A Metadata Specialist should have a strong attention to detail as they are responsible for creating and managing precise data descriptions.

They should also have good communication skills to interact with various teams within an organization.

Proficiency in database systems and metadata tools, knowledge of relevant industry standards, and an understanding of the principles of data management are also crucial.

 

Do Metadata Specialists need a degree?

Typically, Metadata Specialists are expected to hold a degree in a relevant field such as Information Science, Data Management, or Computer Science.

Some roles may also require a Master’s degree or advanced coursework in a related field.

Relevant work experience in data management or cataloging may also be taken into consideration.

 

What should you look for in a Metadata Specialist resume?

Look for a strong background in data management or cataloging.

Experience with metadata standards and schemas, as well as proficiency in SQL or other database languages, are essential.

Evidence of strong communication skills and the ability to work in a team, problem-solving abilities, and any relevant certifications are also desirable.

 

What qualities make a good Metadata Specialist?

A good Metadata Specialist will be detail-oriented and analytical, with a deep understanding of data and metadata standards.

They should be self-motivated, with the ability to work independently as well as in a team.

Problem-solving skills are also crucial, as is the ability to communicate technical information to non-technical colleagues.

 

What are the daily duties of a Metadata Specialist?

A Metadata Specialist’s daily duties can involve creating and managing data descriptions, ensuring data quality, and maintaining data standards.

They may also work on metadata schema development, provide technical support to teams regarding data-related issues, and collaborate with other teams to optimize data retrieval and usage.

Depending on the organization, they may also be involved in training staff in metadata usage and creating documentation for metadata standards and procedures.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve unveiled the essentials of what it means to be a metadata specialist.

Surprise, surprise.

It’s not just about managing data.

It’s about shaping the digital landscape, one data point at a time.

Our handy metadata specialist job description template and real-life examples are here to guide your next step.

But don’t stop there.

Delve further with our job description generator. It’s your ultimate tool for creating meticulously detailed job listings or finessing your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every data point contributes to a larger narrative.

Let’s sculpt that digital landscape. Together.

How to Become a Metadata Specialist (Complete Guide)

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