Jobs For Medievalists

CATALOGER OF WESTERN MANUSCRIPTS, Hill Museum & Manuscript Library

POSITION SUMMARY:

The Hill Museum & Manuscript Library (HMML) invites applications for the full-time, benefit-eligible position of Cataloger of Western Manuscripts. This is a three-year, grant-funded position.

The Cataloger will participate in HMML’s effort to catalog Western manuscripts and to support the creation of authority files by HMML’s metadata librarian. The Cataloger will focus primarily on the migration and correction of legacy data for microfilmed manuscript collections. This position is supervised by and reports to the Director of Cataloging.

Founded in 1965, HMML holds the world’s largest archive of manuscript photographs in both microfilm and digital format. HMML identifies manuscript collections around the world that need photographic preservation and online access. Its archives now contain more than 500,000 complete manuscripts, ranging in size from large codices of hundreds of folios to brief documents consisting of just a few leaves.

Visit  hmml.org to learn more about the places, people and communities that have been part of HMML’s global story, and the manuscripts in HMML’s digital and microfilm collections.

Located on the campus of Saint John’s University in Collegeville, Minnesota, HMML is a 501(c)3 not-for-profit corporation that contracts with the Order of Saint Benedict (OSB) for employees and employee services.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

1. Catalog Western manuscripts according to HMML metadata standards, improving and standardizing legacy manuscript descriptions.  Original cataloging of uncataloged manuscript materials from new digital preservation projects may be possible at the end of the migration of the legacy metadata.
2. Support the creation of authority files and controlled vocabulary during cataloging.
3. Provide expertise when necessary on the German and Latin languages, naming practices, and manuscript tradition.
4. Work closely with HMML staff on relevant aspects of project workflow.
5. Submit monthly reports on cataloging.
6. Answer patron questions concerning the Western manuscript collections.

OTHER RESPONSIBILITIES INCLUDE:

1. Performs other duties as required by the director or supervisor.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:

1. Earned doctorate in History, Germanic Studies, Medieval Studies, Religious Studies, or MLIS equivalent.
2. Excellent knowledge of German and Latin language and paleography.
3. Native or near native English language proficiency and good communications skills.
4. Experience in working with manuscripts or cataloging manuscripts.
5. Knowledge of Microsoft Office (particularly spreadsheet methodologies), Google Sheets, Google Drive, and other commonly used menu-based software.
6. Experience with using digital tools for research in the humanities and ability to understand and work with HMML’s digital platforms and tools.
7. Attention to detail; accuracy and thoroughness in work habits; ability to manage multiple, complex tasks; ability to work in a collaborative team environment; and willingness to utilize communications tools to facilitate working remotely with speedy response times.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

1. Knowledge of DCRM(MSS) and AMREMM cataloging standards.
2. Knowledge of Italian, French, Czech, Hungarian, or Swedish.
3. Experience working with databases and database management.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, & ABILITIES:

1. Excellent written and oral communication skills.
2. Strong computer skills.

PHYSICAL ABILITIES:

Sitting for prolonged periods of time. Extensive use of computers and keyboard. Occasional lifting may be required.

ADDITIONAL REQUISITES: 

In addition to the qualifications noted on the job description, all employees are expected to abide by the following expectations:

1. Ability to interact with the community of the Order of Saint Benedict and the Saint John’s community as an integral part of the staff.
2. Project a positive image of service which represents the unit to which assigned.
3. Ability to acquire an understanding of the character and mission of Order of Saint Benedict and Saint John’s University.
4. A willingness to maintain a high level of competence.  Discreet judgment and confidentiality are expected of all employees.
5. The personal safety and health of each employee is of primary importance in our operation.   Each employee has the responsibility to prevent accidents and injuries.   The Order of Saint Benedict and its employees have the responsibility to comply with Federal, State, and departmental regulations related to safety and health.

ADDITIONAL DEPARTMENTAL REQUISITES:

Help create and foster a positive, respectful, and inclusive work environment.

TO APPLY:

Applications are accepted online at https://www.schooljobs.com/careers/csbsju/osb. Candidates are asked to complete the application form and submit a cover letter and resume.

If you require an accommodation to participate in the OSB hiring process, please contact Human Resources at (320) 363-2874.

It is the policy of OSB to conduct a pre-employment background check.  An offer of employment is contingent upon a successful background check.

HMML is a cultural heritage institution that welcomes applicants from all religious and cultural backgrounds.

Order of Saint Benedict is an Equal Opportunity Employer.