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.
Apply at https://tinyurl.com/RiceMusicLibrarian by March 27, 2026.
Workplace Requirements
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.
Hiring Range
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.
Essential Functions
• 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 librarywide 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
Additional Functions
• Assists in the development and ongoing review of local policies and procedures for cataloging
• Provides training or technical advice to library staff regarding cataloging resource description related to musical works
• Occasional workshops or teaching on library resources and services
• Assists in coordinating a concert series in the library in partnership between the library and the SSOM
• Acts as liaison for music or audio projects with other departments within the library and/or other campus groups
• Assists and/or manages special cataloging projects undertaken by the department as assigned by the department head