Duties
The Audio Preservation Specialist position is located in Audio Preservation Laboratory at the National Audio-Visual Conservation Center (NAVCC) in Culpeper, Virginia and reports directly to the Audio Laboratory Supervisor. The incumbent works with audiovisual performances fixed or recorded in various legacy media. The position involves handling of both the legacy media and the legacy equipment on which the works are played. Employee must demonstrate knowledge of the media and the associated equipment used in both the analog and digital domains that ranges from current “state of the art” broadcast and mastering industry to legacy equipment utilized for archival recordings.
Creates digital files of selected materials and performs post-processing functions consistent with preservation directives with a keen sense of awareness to archival best practices and protocols. Performs digital preservation on Recorded Sound Collection materials encompassing the earliest historical analog formats through modern digital media. Must have a trained ear for optimal extraction of audio signals from both analog and digital recording formats. Knowledge of digital audio file formats and software tools is necessary to ensure that bit accurate copies and transfers are accomplished routinely. An understanding of database and cataloging standards for the creation and modification of metadata associated with the collections to be preserved. Generates high resolution audio preservation files from analog and digital source materials. Additionally, creates access audio files plus tape and disc duplications as directed. Transfer work produce’s digital files and/or physical media reproductions which may result in commercial works for publication, issue, or sale purposes by the Library or its clients.
Surveys internal collections, identifying and inventorying groups of materials. Analyzes, determines, and prioritizes preservation requirements. Develops and proposes long-term strategies for the preservation of collections. Assesses collections and archives considered for acquisition by the Library with regard to condition, contents, scope, storage history, and other aspects pertinent to the preservation and long-term survival of the material. Develops specifications and procedures for the preservation copying of originals, using standards developed in the archival preservation field. Monitors the quality and consistency of preservation to ensure adherence to established archival standards and specifications. Coordinates with the Library’s preservation research staff on the archival evaluation and testing of materials and procedures used in the program.
The incumbent assists the Audio Laboratory Supervisor, an expert in the operation of a full range of complex and sophisticated professional audio broadcast equipment. Identifies equipment and supplies required for conducting the preservation program, and develops specifications for their procurement. Interconnects various equipment to fulfill the unique needs of each format. Tunes, adjusts, monitors, analyzes the performance of, and makes appropriate adjustments to the equipment for preservation transfer. Determines which, if any, adjustments must be made to assure the highest technical quality of each preservation project.
Qualifications
Applicants must have had progressively responsible experience and training sufficient in scope and quality to furnish them with an acceptable level of the following knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform the duties of the position without more than normal supervision.
- Skill in preserving sound recordings.**
- Skill in audio recording and post-production project workflows.**
- Skill in operating professional recording equipment to preserve current and obsolete audio formats.**
- Ability to apply knowledge of integrated systems, applications, and other information technologies related to audio preservation to analyze technical and operational problems and develop solutions.
- Knowledge of analog and digital audio technology.
- Ability to communicate effectively other than in writing.
How to Apply
Further information and application information available here
