Library Data Strategist - Job Opportunity at Virginia Tech

Blacksburg, United States
Full-time
Mid-level
Posted: March 14, 2025
On-site
USD 60,000 minimum per year

Benefits

Comprehensive educational benefits at a leading research institution
Professional development opportunities through shared governance participation
Work-life balance with standard 40-hour work week
Inclusive and diverse work environment
Access to extensive research resources and technology infrastructure

Key Responsibilities

Develop and maintain strategic integrations between library systems (Figshare, Alma, Springshare, Wikibase)
Lead data strategy initiatives across library departments
Implement and optimize data-related workflows and processes
Provide technical consultation and documentation for library systems
Build collaborative relationships with faculty, staff, and students

Requirements

Education

Bachelor's Degree with significant library technology experience or Master's degree in Library Science, Computer Science, or Information Technology

Experience

Significant experience with library technology systems

Required Skills

Python programming Documentation and workflow management Time management Interpersonal communication Autonomous work capability Technical documentation Linux Docker AWS API development Library data standards
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Sauge AI Market Intelligence

Industry Trends

Libraries are increasingly adopting data-driven approaches to service delivery and collection management, requiring sophisticated integration between systems The convergence of traditional library science with modern data engineering is creating hybrid roles that command premium compensation Academic libraries are leading digital transformation initiatives, particularly in research data management and open science

Salary Evaluation

USD 60,000 - 85,000 based on location and required expertise. The stated minimum is slightly below market for similar roles at R1 universities

Role Significance

Likely part of a small specialized technical team (3-5 people) within larger library organization
Mid-level technical position with strategic impact on library operations and data management practices

Key Projects

Library systems integration and automation Data workflow optimization Digital collections management Research data infrastructure development Metadata standardization initiatives

Success Factors

Strong technical foundation combined with understanding of library operations Ability to bridge technical and non-technical stakeholders Proactive problem-solving approach Excellence in documentation and knowledge transfer Commitment to continuous learning in evolving technology landscape

Market Demand

High demand with growing emphasis on data strategy in academic libraries. Limited talent pool with combined library science and technical skills creates competitive market conditions

Important Skills

Critical Skills

Python programming for automation and data processing System integration expertise for connecting diverse library platforms Documentation skills for ensuring knowledge transfer and process sustainability Data standards knowledge for maintaining interoperability

Beneficial Skills

Container orchestration with Docker Cloud services (AWS) for scalability API development for system extensibility Linked data concepts for semantic web integration

Unique Aspects

Combination of traditional library science with modern data engineering creates distinctive career development opportunity
Position at intersection of academic research and technical infrastructure development
Opportunity to influence digital transformation in academic library context

Career Growth

2-4 years in role before advancement, depending on project success and skill development

Potential Next Roles

Library Systems Manager Head of Library Technology Digital Collections Architect Data Services Director

Company Overview

Virginia Tech

Virginia Tech is a leading land-grant research university with over $500 million in annual research funding and a comprehensive academic portfolio

Top-tier public research institution with significant technological focus and resources
Major employer in Southwest Virginia with expanding presence across the state, including Northern Virginia's tech corridor
Collaborative academic environment with emphasis on innovation and service ("Ut Prosim")
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