Program Coordinator
Fully Remote Bethesda, MD LAC Federal
Job Type
Full-time
Description

LAC Federal is seeking a highly qualified Project Coordinator to lead the assessment and processing strategy for unprocessed and backlogged collection materials for a major federal library. The Coordinator will also support a parallel feasibility study on metadata generation for digitized materials, including emerging GenAI applications. The position requires a combination of project management expertise, archival and special collections experience, and strong research and analytical capabilities within a federal research library environment.


Responsibilities

  • Perform ongoing analysis of unprocessed and backlogged collection materials to support improved discoverability
  • Oversee and update a comprehensive collection processing and prioritization workplan, including workflows by collection type
  • Coordinate with agency stakeholders to identify priorities, user needs, and processing objectives
  • Evaluate collections for research, historical, and informational value to inform prioritization decisions
  • Recommend appropriate levels of metadata (minimal, full, automated) for different material types
  • Develop statistically valid sampling strategies and processing methodologies
  • Coordinate and manage on-site project logistics, including material handling and workflow setup
  • Supervise and collaborate with cross-functional teams, including catalogers, metadata specialists, and technical staff
  • Ensure proper handling and preservation of historical and delicate materials
  • Conduct literature reviews and environmental scans (peer-reviewed and grey literature)
  • Develop interview guides and conduct interviews with peer institutions and vendors
  • Support evaluation of GenAI-generated metadata and assist in developing reliability frameworks
  • Contribute to cost-benefit analysis and development of final feasibility study reports
Requirements
  • Master’s degree in Library and Information Science (MLIS) or related field (archives, information science, or similar)
  • Minimum of 5–7 years of experience in library, archives, or special collections environments
  • Demonstrated project management experience supporting complex, multi-stakeholder initiatives
  • Experience assessing, processing, or managing archival or special collections materials
  • Knowledge of archival standards and cataloging/metadata practices (e.g., MARC, DACS, Dublin Core)
  • Demonstrated experience handling historical, rare, or delicate materials
  • Strong analytical, organizational, and written communication skills
  • Experience coordinating cross-functional teams (cataloging, technical, research, or data teams)
  • Experience conducting literature reviews (peer-reviewed and grey literature)
  • Ability to obtain and maintain a Public Trust clearance

Preferred Requirements

  • Experience working in a federal library, academic research library, or medical library environment
  • Familiarity with Ex Libris Alma or similar library systems
  • Experience with backlog remediation or large-scale collection assessment projects
  • Knowledge of digitization workflows and digital asset management systems
  • Experience evaluating or working with AI/ML or GenAI applications in libraries or metadata generation
  • Experience developing interview protocols and conducting qualitative research
  • Familiarity with foreign language materials or coordination with language specialists
  • Experience with statistical sampling methodologies for collections assessment
  • Knowledge of preservation best practices and conservation considerations
  • PMP certification or equivalent project management training

Physical Requirements

  • Ability to sit or stand for extended periods while working at a computer, participating in meetings, conducting research, and overseeing project activities both on-site and virtually. 
  • Ability to handle, lift, and transport archival materials and collection items (e.g., boxes, files, bound volumes) up to approximately 20–30 pounds, and perform tasks such as sorting, organizing, and setting up workflows. 
  • Ability to perform fine motor tasks and visual inspection, including handling delicate or rare materials with care, reading detailed text, and working with digital and physical metadata systems for extended periods.

Benefits

  • Health Care Plan (Medical, Dental & Vision)
  • Retirement Plan (401k, IRA)
  • Life Insurance (Basic, Voluntary & AD&D)
  • Paid Time Off (Vacation, Sick & Public Holidays)
  • Family Leave (Maternity, Paternity)
  • Short Term & Long-Term Disability
  • Training & Development

 
 

EEO Statement

The company and its subsidiaries are an equal opportunity employer and celebrate the population of differences and does not discriminate in its hiring/hiring practices, regardless of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

Nothing in this job specification restricts management’s right to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time. 

Critical features of this job are described under various headings above. They may be subject to change at any time due to reasonable accommodation or other reasons. The above statements are strictly intended to describe the general nature and level of the work being performed. They are not intended to be construed as a complete list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of employees in this position.

This job description in no way states or implies that these are the only duties to be performed by the employee(s) incumbent in this position. Employees will be required to follow any other job-related instructions and to perform any other job-related duties requested by any person authorized to give instructions or assignments. All duties and responsibilities are essential functions and requirements and are subject to possible modification to reasonably accommodate individuals with disabilities. 

To perform this job successfully, the incumbents will possess the skills, aptitudes, and abilities to perform each duty proficiently. 

Some requirements may exclude individuals who pose a direct threat or significant risk to the health or safety of themselves or others. The requirements listed in this document are the minimum levels of knowledge, skills, or abilities. This document does not create an employment contract, implied or otherwise, other than an “at will” relationship.

Salary Description
$50.00 - $60.00 an hour