Job Description

Principal Librarian: Metadata and Data Curation (Grade 15)

Library Services Division: Technical Services

The Library Services Division invite suitably qualified candidates to join their team.

Main Objectives

Identifies and creates appropriate knowledge structures, and oversees the creation, management, and maintenance of metadata within the Rhodes University Library Services.


This role plays a crucial part in ensuring data integrity, data curation, accessibility, and discoverability for various data assets, including research outputs, primary and secondary resources. The Metadata Curation Manager leads a team of metadata specialists and collaborates with cross-functional teams to support the organisation's data management and analysis efforts.

The Requirements

A Bachelor's degree in Library and Information Science (NQF level 8) OR a 3-year Degree, plus a 1-year Post-Graduate Library Diploma (NQF level 8) plus approximately 8 years' relevant experience where such experience includes: -

A minimum of 8 years' experience in metadata creation in an academic and/or research library NACO trained (authority record creation) At least 3 years' previous supervision experience. Familiar with XML, MODS, Dublin Core and MarcEdit Project Management experience

Previous exposure to archives and/or research data curation and taxonomy development will be an advantage.

Application Process

It is essential that prospective candidates read the job profile for further information and ensure that all relevant documentation is submitted.

The following documents are required:

A comprehensive CV and relevant qualifications which should include the following: - + Reasons for leaving your current and previous jobs.
+ Referees who are and/or were your direct line manager, their title, name, designation and contact information which should be at least their contact number and email address.
A strong and succinct motivation which tells us your interest in the post and suitability relative to the job requirements.

Please note, no hand-written applications will be considered. Failure to submit all documentation will result in an application being disqualified.

Any questions or enquiries regarding the submission of an application please contact 046 603 7266.

Selection Process (provisional date, subject to change):

Short-listing meeting date to be confirmed The selection process that will be followed for this post will include an assessment and/or presentation and an interview. Shortlisted candidates will be informed of the interview date.

Remuneration per annum (Grade 15):

Basic Pensionable Salary per annum: R693,760.00


Cost to Company per annum (Approximately): R855,526.00



All applications will be treated in strict confidence.

This post is advertised as a permanent post, but the University may opt to appoint on a fixed-term contract of not less than three years

. The University reserves the right not to proceed with the filling of the post. An application in itself does not entitle the applicant to an interview. Employment checks will be conducted on recommended candidates.

Closing Date: 08 July 2025

This advertisement may be closed before the indicated closing date if a high number of applications are received. To ensure your application is considered, please submit it as soon as possible.

If you are not contacted within 30 days from the closing date, please consider your application unsuccessful.

Recognising that diversity is important in achieving excellence. Rhodes University strongly encourages South African members of underrepresented designated groups as well as persons with disabilities to apply. Spouses and partners of existing staff members are also encouraged to apply. Please note all appointments are made in line with the requirements of the Employment Equity Act of 55 of 1998, as amended, the Immigration Act No. 13 of 2022 and the University's Recruitment and Selection policies.



Our core values and principles are the foundation of our commitment to creating a positive, supportive, and enabling environment. These values guide our decisions, actions, and how we engage with each other as we work to achieve our vision and mission. These values are:

Diversity; Integrity; Respect; Excellence; Collegiality and Compassion