Wikimedian In Residence - Stanford University - Stanford, CA
JOB PURPOSE:
The Wikimedian-in-Residence will design and implement innovative approaches to the creation and sharing of library metadata using Wikidata. Research libraries nationwide are adopting linked data models to provide better and richer access to information, and to enable the discovery of new knowledge by linking previously unrelated information. As a widely used source of structured data, Wikidata has the potential to play a key role in libraries’ transition to the semantic web, serving as a platform for publishing, linking, and enriching library metadata.
As a key member of the Linked Data for Production project, the Wikimedian-in-Residence will be embedded in the Stanford Libraries, and will collaborate closely with technical services and software development staff at project partner libraries (Cornell University, Harvard University, and the University of Iowa) and more than a dozen leading research libraries, and with the Wikimedia Foundation. The Wikimedian-in-Residence will serve as a conduit between the Wikimedia community and the library community, bridging the interests, workflows and data of research libraries with the communities, data and technologies of Wikimedia Foundation efforts such as Wikidata, Wikimedia Commons and Wikipedia.
By bringing knowledge of and passion for Wikimedia’s approach to libraries and linked data, the Wikimedian-in-Residence will help identify how libraries can contribute and relate their information with that of the open Web, while also reusing that information to streamline and enrich their own environments. Responsibilities include developing and prototyping workflows for data and identifier exchange between libraries and Wikidata; assessing and demonstrating the effectiveness of using Wikidata to improve discoverability of library resources; and guiding the adoption of Wikidata as a platform for structured vocabularies of interest to libraries.
The ideal candidate will have excellent communication and outreach skills, facility with a variety of data models and web technologies, ability to translate ideas into real-life workflows and projects, ability to collaborate with a variety of roles and organizations, and a pioneering spirt.
Funded as part of a series of Andrew W. Mellon Foundation grants to Stanford and partner libraries (Cornell University, Harvard University, University of Iowa, et al.), this is a fixed term staff position at Stanford University (with possibility for renewal) that is filled with the assistance and support of the Wikimedia Foundation’s Wikimedian-in-Residence program. Travel is expected, including the possibility of international travel.
CORE DUTIES*:
Translate library business processes into system requirements and/or development of systems solutions. Analyze new business requirements, assist with feasibility of enhancement requests, system functionality, current system use and user needs vis a vis Wikimedia projects, direction and capacity. Specify functional analysis and design, and work with librarians, developers and Wikimedia community members to recommend solutions and resolve system issues. Review, research and evaluate relevant software and systems and data sources to determine usefulness and appropriateness as related to existing or proposed business systems; assist or develop preliminary and detailed system design documentation. Develop instructional materials, training and job aids that facilitate the integration of linked data practices into library processes. Advise users requiring assistance in solving complex problems or issues regarding management and business systems. Analyze data; extract, transform and link data; run reports; generate visualizations. Liaise with external partners and the Wikimedia community in support of integrating workflows, systems and policies. - Other duties may also be assignedMINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:
Education & Experience:
Bachelor's degree and five years relevant experience or a combination of education and relevant experience.
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS*:
Constantly perform desk-based computer tasks. Frequently sit, grasp lightly/fine manipulation. Occasionally stand/walk, use a telephone. Rarely writing by hand, lift/carry/push/pull objects that weigh up to 10 pounds. - Consistent with its obligations under the law, the University will provide reasonable accommodation to any employee with a disability who requires accommodation to perform the essential functions of the job.
WORKING CONDITIONS:
Work extended hours.
WORK STANDARDS:
Interpersonal Skills: Demonstrates the ability to work well with Stanford colleagues and clients and with external organizations. Promote Culture of Safety: Demonstrates commitment to personal responsibility and value for safety; communicates safety concerns; uses and promotes safe behaviors based on training and lessons learned. Subject to and expected to comply with all applicable University policies and procedures, including but not limited to the personnel policies and other policies found in the University’s Administrative Guide, http://adminguide.stanford.edu.
Stanford is an equal employment opportunity and affirmative action employer and is committed to recruiting and hiring without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.
Job Code: 4772
Job Grade: I