Media Preservation Engineer, Audio Job at The New York Public Library in New Yor
The New York Public Library, New York, NY, United States
Location: Library for the Performing Arts
Compensation: $70,000 - $77,000 / year
Description
The New York Public Library seeks an audio engineer to join our in-house Audio and Moving Image (AMI) digitization program. The AMI Preservation program (AMIP) is charged with preserving and providing access to the Research Libraries’ extensive collection of audiovisual materials—including historical recordings and at‑risk 20th‑century media formats—through digitization and stringent preservation standards. Reporting to the Manager of Audio and Moving Image Preservation, the Engineer will oversee the operation of one of two AMIP audio digitization labs, ensuring that daily audio digitization operations and quality standards are met while maintaining a robust pipeline of preservation work. The ideal candidate is highly skilled in audio digitization and preservation, organized, and efficient.
While located at the Library for the Performing Arts, the Engineer will carry out the preservation assessment, treatment, and reformatting of recordings held across the Research Libraries. They will also be responsible for equipment calibration and maintenance, and provide input and feedback on technology and workflow development. The position will advise on media preservation issues, and participate in quality assurance, and program documentation.
We are looking for someone we can count on to:
Own
The operation of one of two AMIP audio digitization labs, including preparation and treatment of media, digitization, file editing and post‑production, and equipment care and calibration
Pre‑and post‑digitization logistics for this audio lab, ensuring timely and accurate completion of audio digitization projects from physical media handling to post‑digitization validation processes
The tracking of key performance metrics for the audio lab to demonstrate progress and maintain accountability for projects
Teach
Lab staff and cross‑functional teams about evolving audio digitization practices, quality assurance, and equipment care
Colleagues about emerging trends in audio preservation and the tools/software that support them
Learn
The unique content, formats, and preservation requirements of the Library’s extensive and diverse audio collections
The audio lab’s digitization workflows, including in‑house scripts to assist with efficient file processing and metadata organization
New technologies, software, and digitization strategies in order to scale and continuously improve audio lab processes
Improve
Communication channels and reporting mechanisms so that AMI lab managers have insight into audio digitization timelines and overall lab productivity
Technical workflows and documentation to enhance efficiency, standardization, and quality control outcomes across audio preservation projects
Digitization and equipment operation knowledge by engaging in robust professional development and field‑specific training
Some expectations for this role are that within:
1 month
Have a working understanding of NYPL digitization specifications and lab equipment capabilities
3 months
Have full understanding and ability to execute specifications and workflows
6 months and beyond
Have the expertise and ability to represent all specifications and procedures to external parties
Contribute to program and division specifications, workflow, and strategy discussions
Responsibilities
Perform preservation treatment and reformatting for the full range of obsolete, still‑in‑use, and emerging audio formats, from analog to digital (discs, cylinders, tape, etc)
Create preservation master, production, service, and metadata files according to AMIP specifications
Use a wide range of software, scripts and other tools to perform this work.
Calibrate and maintain current and obsolete equipment
Perform quality assurance activities
Assess and recommend new tools and equipment
Quality control of deliverables and preparation of digital assets for repository ingest
Participate in overall program and workflow development
Participate in Library‑wide activities such as disaster response and recovery, and education and outreach activities
Stay abreast of new technology and emerging best practices in the field, and pay attention to developments in professional organizations such as AES, IASA, ARSC.
Perform other duties as assigned
Required Education, Experience & Skills
Required Education & Certifications
Bachelor’s degree, or degree in Audio Engineering, Library/Information Science, Music Technology, Electrical Engineering, or a related field preferred
Required Experience
2-5 years of demonstrated experience in audio preservation, including media identification; physical treatment; playback, signal extraction, and analog‑to‑digital conversion; production and specification of preservation master files, digital derivatives, and metadata
Demonstrated experience in the preservation reformatting of legacy analog formats (open‑reel tape, cassettes, and grooved discs)
Demonstrated experience in the preservation and reformatting of physical digital formats (such as DAT, ADAT, etc.)
Hands‑on experience with at least one professional digital audio workstation software.
Working understanding of the audio preservation standards and best practice documents developed by IASA and AES
Ability to perform basic maintenance and calibration of current and obsolete audio playback equipment
Experience in the preservation reformatting of full range of obsolete to current audio formats, to include cylinders, wires, dictation formats, and optical media
Experience with file analysis, digital asset packaging, and command‑line scripting
Required Skills
Comprehensive knowledge of audio preservation engineering, including the calibration of legacy playback systems and the principles of high‑fidelity signal extraction and A/D conversion
Excellent critical listening/viewing skills and evaluation of typical issues in reformatting legacy media
Excellent skills in evaluating and handling rare, fragile, or damaged media
Excellent judgment, problem‑solving skills and strong commitment to high quality and productivity
Excellent organizational skills, high attention to detail, with the ability to set priorities and complete work under pressure of production deadlines
Awareness of leading trends in digitization, and an eagerness to expand the scope of digitization possibilities at NYPL
Managerial/Supervisory Responsibilities
N/A
Core Values
Be Helpful to patrons and colleagues
Be Resourceful in solving problems
Be Curious in all aspects of your work
Be Welcoming and Inclusive
Work Environment
Primarily an in‑house lab environment located at the Library for the Performing Arts at Lincoln Center
May involve occasional travel to other NYPL locations or off‑site storage facilities
Possible exposure to dust, mold, and chemicals used in preservation and treatment of media
Physical Duties
Ability to lift and move a variety of media carriers, boxes, and equipment (up to 40 lbs.)
May involve repetitive motions related to equipment operation
Pre-Placement Physical Required?
No
Union/Non Union
Non‑Union
FLSA Status
Exempt
Schedule
Onsite, 35 hours per week, Monday to Friday, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Job description disclaimer
This job description represents the types and levels of responsibilities that will be required of the position and shall not be construed as a declaration of all of the specific duties and responsibilities for the role. Job duties may change if Library priorities change. Employees may be directed to perform job‑related tasks other than those specifically presented in this description as needed.
The New York Public Library
Salary Statement
At the Library, we believe that pay transparency and pay equity are important to ensuring we source the best candidates and keep the best employees. When making a determination as to the appropriate salary for a candidate, we consider a variety of factors such as, but not limited to, the position requirements, the skills, prior experience, and educational background required or preferred for the job, the scope and impact of the role within the organization, internal peer equity, and the candidate's specific training, experience, education level, and skills. No single factor is conclusive; the Library reserves the right to consider any and all relevant factors and make a decision consistent with its policies. Union salaries are determined by collective bargaining agreement(s).
#J-18808-Ljbffr
In Summary: The New York Public Library seeks an audio engineer to join our in-house Audio and Moving Image (AMI) digitization program . The Engineer will carry out the preservation assessment, treatment, and reformatting of recordings held across the Research Libraries . The ideal candidate is highly skilled in audio digitization and preservation .
En Español: La Biblioteca Pública de Nueva York busca un ingeniero de audio para unirse a nuestro programa interno de digitalización del Audio e Imagen en Movimiento (AMI). El programa AMI Preservation está encargado de preservar y proporcionar acceso a las Bibliotecas de Investigación una extensa colección de materiales audiovisualesincluyendo grabaciones históricas y formatos mediáticos de riesgo del siglo XXa través de la digitalización y estrictos estándares de conservación. Informando al Gerente de Preservación de Áudio e Imágenes En Movimiento, el Ingeniero supervisará el funcionamiento de uno de los dos laboratorios de digitalización de áudio AMIP, asegurándose que se cumplan con las normas diarias de operaciones de digitización de entradas de audio y calidad mientras se mantiene una sólida pipeline de trabajo de preservación. El puesto asesorará sobre cuestiones de preservación de los medios, y participará en la garantía de calidad y documentación del programa. Buscamos a alguien con quien podamos contar: Propiciar el funcionamiento de uno de dos laboratorios de digitalización de audio AMIP, que incluyen preparación y tratamiento de medios de comunicación, digitalización, edición de archivos y postproducción, y cuidado y calibración de equipos Pre-y post-digitalización logística para este laboratorio de audio, asegurando una finalización oportuna y precisa de proyectos de digitización de audio desde el manejo de medios físicos hasta procesos de validación posdigitalizar. Esta descripción de trabajo representa los tipos y niveles de responsabilidades que se requerirán del puesto y no debe interpretarse como una declaración de todos los deberes y responsabilidades específicas para el papel. Las tareas laborales pueden cambiar si las prioridades de la biblioteca cambian. Los empleados pueden ser dirigidos a realizar tareas relacionadas con el empleo distintas de las especificamente presentadas en esta descripción según sea necesario. La Declaración Salarial de la Biblioteca Pública de Nueva York En la biblioteca, creemos que la transparencia salarial y la equidad salariales son importantes para asegurarnos de obtener los mejores candidatos y mantener a los mejores empleados. Al decidir sobre el sueldo adecuado para un candidato al cargo, consideramos una variedad de factores tales como, pero sin limitarnos a, los requisitos, las habilidades, experiencia previa y conocimientos educativos necesarios o acuerdos concluyentes para el trabajo, el alcance y la negociación de competencias colectivas dentro de la organización, las políticas de formación e igualdad entre pares, las reservas de los candidatos y el nivel de remuneración de la Unión (Jn.
Compensation: $70,000 - $77,000 / year
Description
The New York Public Library seeks an audio engineer to join our in-house Audio and Moving Image (AMI) digitization program. The AMI Preservation program (AMIP) is charged with preserving and providing access to the Research Libraries’ extensive collection of audiovisual materials—including historical recordings and at‑risk 20th‑century media formats—through digitization and stringent preservation standards. Reporting to the Manager of Audio and Moving Image Preservation, the Engineer will oversee the operation of one of two AMIP audio digitization labs, ensuring that daily audio digitization operations and quality standards are met while maintaining a robust pipeline of preservation work. The ideal candidate is highly skilled in audio digitization and preservation, organized, and efficient.
While located at the Library for the Performing Arts, the Engineer will carry out the preservation assessment, treatment, and reformatting of recordings held across the Research Libraries. They will also be responsible for equipment calibration and maintenance, and provide input and feedback on technology and workflow development. The position will advise on media preservation issues, and participate in quality assurance, and program documentation.
We are looking for someone we can count on to:
Own
The operation of one of two AMIP audio digitization labs, including preparation and treatment of media, digitization, file editing and post‑production, and equipment care and calibration
Pre‑and post‑digitization logistics for this audio lab, ensuring timely and accurate completion of audio digitization projects from physical media handling to post‑digitization validation processes
The tracking of key performance metrics for the audio lab to demonstrate progress and maintain accountability for projects
Teach
Lab staff and cross‑functional teams about evolving audio digitization practices, quality assurance, and equipment care
Colleagues about emerging trends in audio preservation and the tools/software that support them
Learn
The unique content, formats, and preservation requirements of the Library’s extensive and diverse audio collections
The audio lab’s digitization workflows, including in‑house scripts to assist with efficient file processing and metadata organization
New technologies, software, and digitization strategies in order to scale and continuously improve audio lab processes
Improve
Communication channels and reporting mechanisms so that AMI lab managers have insight into audio digitization timelines and overall lab productivity
Technical workflows and documentation to enhance efficiency, standardization, and quality control outcomes across audio preservation projects
Digitization and equipment operation knowledge by engaging in robust professional development and field‑specific training
Some expectations for this role are that within:
1 month
Have a working understanding of NYPL digitization specifications and lab equipment capabilities
3 months
Have full understanding and ability to execute specifications and workflows
6 months and beyond
Have the expertise and ability to represent all specifications and procedures to external parties
Contribute to program and division specifications, workflow, and strategy discussions
Responsibilities
Perform preservation treatment and reformatting for the full range of obsolete, still‑in‑use, and emerging audio formats, from analog to digital (discs, cylinders, tape, etc)
Create preservation master, production, service, and metadata files according to AMIP specifications
Use a wide range of software, scripts and other tools to perform this work.
Calibrate and maintain current and obsolete equipment
Perform quality assurance activities
Assess and recommend new tools and equipment
Quality control of deliverables and preparation of digital assets for repository ingest
Participate in overall program and workflow development
Participate in Library‑wide activities such as disaster response and recovery, and education and outreach activities
Stay abreast of new technology and emerging best practices in the field, and pay attention to developments in professional organizations such as AES, IASA, ARSC.
Perform other duties as assigned
Required Education, Experience & Skills
Required Education & Certifications
Bachelor’s degree, or degree in Audio Engineering, Library/Information Science, Music Technology, Electrical Engineering, or a related field preferred
Required Experience
2-5 years of demonstrated experience in audio preservation, including media identification; physical treatment; playback, signal extraction, and analog‑to‑digital conversion; production and specification of preservation master files, digital derivatives, and metadata
Demonstrated experience in the preservation reformatting of legacy analog formats (open‑reel tape, cassettes, and grooved discs)
Demonstrated experience in the preservation and reformatting of physical digital formats (such as DAT, ADAT, etc.)
Hands‑on experience with at least one professional digital audio workstation software.
Working understanding of the audio preservation standards and best practice documents developed by IASA and AES
Ability to perform basic maintenance and calibration of current and obsolete audio playback equipment
Experience in the preservation reformatting of full range of obsolete to current audio formats, to include cylinders, wires, dictation formats, and optical media
Experience with file analysis, digital asset packaging, and command‑line scripting
Required Skills
Comprehensive knowledge of audio preservation engineering, including the calibration of legacy playback systems and the principles of high‑fidelity signal extraction and A/D conversion
Excellent critical listening/viewing skills and evaluation of typical issues in reformatting legacy media
Excellent skills in evaluating and handling rare, fragile, or damaged media
Excellent judgment, problem‑solving skills and strong commitment to high quality and productivity
Excellent organizational skills, high attention to detail, with the ability to set priorities and complete work under pressure of production deadlines
Awareness of leading trends in digitization, and an eagerness to expand the scope of digitization possibilities at NYPL
Managerial/Supervisory Responsibilities
N/A
Core Values
Be Helpful to patrons and colleagues
Be Resourceful in solving problems
Be Curious in all aspects of your work
Be Welcoming and Inclusive
Work Environment
Primarily an in‑house lab environment located at the Library for the Performing Arts at Lincoln Center
May involve occasional travel to other NYPL locations or off‑site storage facilities
Possible exposure to dust, mold, and chemicals used in preservation and treatment of media
Physical Duties
Ability to lift and move a variety of media carriers, boxes, and equipment (up to 40 lbs.)
May involve repetitive motions related to equipment operation
Pre-Placement Physical Required?
No
Union/Non Union
Non‑Union
FLSA Status
Exempt
Schedule
Onsite, 35 hours per week, Monday to Friday, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Job description disclaimer
This job description represents the types and levels of responsibilities that will be required of the position and shall not be construed as a declaration of all of the specific duties and responsibilities for the role. Job duties may change if Library priorities change. Employees may be directed to perform job‑related tasks other than those specifically presented in this description as needed.
The New York Public Library
Salary Statement
At the Library, we believe that pay transparency and pay equity are important to ensuring we source the best candidates and keep the best employees. When making a determination as to the appropriate salary for a candidate, we consider a variety of factors such as, but not limited to, the position requirements, the skills, prior experience, and educational background required or preferred for the job, the scope and impact of the role within the organization, internal peer equity, and the candidate's specific training, experience, education level, and skills. No single factor is conclusive; the Library reserves the right to consider any and all relevant factors and make a decision consistent with its policies. Union salaries are determined by collective bargaining agreement(s).
#J-18808-Ljbffr
In Summary: The New York Public Library seeks an audio engineer to join our in-house Audio and Moving Image (AMI) digitization program . The Engineer will carry out the preservation assessment, treatment, and reformatting of recordings held across the Research Libraries . The ideal candidate is highly skilled in audio digitization and preservation .
En Español: La Biblioteca Pública de Nueva York busca un ingeniero de audio para unirse a nuestro programa interno de digitalización del Audio e Imagen en Movimiento (AMI). El programa AMI Preservation está encargado de preservar y proporcionar acceso a las Bibliotecas de Investigación una extensa colección de materiales audiovisualesincluyendo grabaciones históricas y formatos mediáticos de riesgo del siglo XXa través de la digitalización y estrictos estándares de conservación. Informando al Gerente de Preservación de Áudio e Imágenes En Movimiento, el Ingeniero supervisará el funcionamiento de uno de los dos laboratorios de digitalización de áudio AMIP, asegurándose que se cumplan con las normas diarias de operaciones de digitización de entradas de audio y calidad mientras se mantiene una sólida pipeline de trabajo de preservación. El puesto asesorará sobre cuestiones de preservación de los medios, y participará en la garantía de calidad y documentación del programa. Buscamos a alguien con quien podamos contar: Propiciar el funcionamiento de uno de dos laboratorios de digitalización de audio AMIP, que incluyen preparación y tratamiento de medios de comunicación, digitalización, edición de archivos y postproducción, y cuidado y calibración de equipos Pre-y post-digitalización logística para este laboratorio de audio, asegurando una finalización oportuna y precisa de proyectos de digitización de audio desde el manejo de medios físicos hasta procesos de validación posdigitalizar. Esta descripción de trabajo representa los tipos y niveles de responsabilidades que se requerirán del puesto y no debe interpretarse como una declaración de todos los deberes y responsabilidades específicas para el papel. Las tareas laborales pueden cambiar si las prioridades de la biblioteca cambian. Los empleados pueden ser dirigidos a realizar tareas relacionadas con el empleo distintas de las especificamente presentadas en esta descripción según sea necesario. La Declaración Salarial de la Biblioteca Pública de Nueva York En la biblioteca, creemos que la transparencia salarial y la equidad salariales son importantes para asegurarnos de obtener los mejores candidatos y mantener a los mejores empleados. Al decidir sobre el sueldo adecuado para un candidato al cargo, consideramos una variedad de factores tales como, pero sin limitarnos a, los requisitos, las habilidades, experiencia previa y conocimientos educativos necesarios o acuerdos concluyentes para el trabajo, el alcance y la negociación de competencias colectivas dentro de la organización, las políticas de formación e igualdad entre pares, las reservas de los candidatos y el nivel de remuneración de la Unión (Jn.