Microfiche Digitization Technician

San Francisco, California

Internet Archive
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The Microfiche Digitization Technician will operate a microfiche digitization station that takes digital photos of microfiche cards from various collections and displays them online for universal access.

The Internet Archive is a non-profit organization working with 80+ world-class universities and libraries to create the world's largest digital open library. We partner with many institutions to digitize and share unique collections of print and microform materials.

Gain experience in the following fields of endeavor: building an open source digital library, digital photography and digital scanning software, metadata management, preservation and handling of micro format material, presentation and production of digital books.

Responsibilities and Duties

We are looking for a Microfiche Digitization Technician who is motivated, conscientious, detail-oriented, and who has the ability to work efficiently and independently in a quiet, low-stress work environment.
  • Digitally capture and review images of microfiche books, periodicals and manuscripts using documented processes and procedures, at an established production rate.
  • A high tolerance for repetitive tasks and expert attention to detail is necessary.
  • Ability to assess image quality and determine if an image requires rework.
  • Ability to communicate with others about problems.
  • Working knowledge of computers - strong technical skills are preferred.
  • Must be able to carefully move materials (5-40 lbs. each) short distances, using standard workplace processes; sit or stand at a microfiche station.
  • Strong written and verbal communications skills.
  • Ability to receive feedback and give feedback in a friendly, professional manner.
  • Preferred skills: photography knowledge and/or interest in film, experience with film scanning or past work in a library setting.
Physical/Special Requirements

Walking: Ability to move about on foot to accomplish tasks, to pick up materials to scan.

Lifting: Ability to raise and lower objects horizontally from position to position and lift up to 40 pounds safely.

Seeing: Required to have close visual acuity to determine the accuracy, and clarity of images during digitization.

Sitting/Standing: Works at a computer 100% of the time. Must be able to sit or stand at a microfiche scanning station for full shift length.

Dexterity: Ability to use hands and arms to move microfiche material on/off the platen. This activity occurs throughout the work day.

Cognitive Considerations
  • Must have the ability to read, write in English and organize materials.
  • Ability to maintain constant focus on digitization workflow.
  • Must exhibit good safety awareness and judgment.

Must have availability Monday to Friday to work in Richmond, California 7:30 AM - 3:30 PM. Must have own transportation as the site is not well served by public transit.

Tell us about why you would like to join our team and what aspects of your work experience you think will be an asset to the project. All types of work experience is highly encouraged. We are grateful to all applicants but may only respond to those inquiries we would like to proceed with.

Internet Archive is committed to an equitable, diverse, and inclusive workforce. We welcome applications from all qualified persons. We encourage women; members of visible minority groups; persons with disabilities; persons of any sexual orientation or gender identity and expression; and all those who may contribute to the further diversification of ideas and perspectives to apply.
Date Posted: 23 April 2025
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