Digital Imaging Technician (Still Water Project)

About the Harry Ransom Center

The Ransom Center is an internationally renowned humanities research library and museum at The University of Texas at Austin. Its extensive collections provide unique insight into the creative process of writers and artists, deepening our understanding and appreciation of literature, photography, film, art, and the performing arts. Visitors engage with the Center's collections through research and study, exhibitions, publications, and a rich variety of program offerings including readings, talks, symposia, and film screenings. The Ransom Center encourages discovery, inspires creativity, and advances understanding of the humanities for a broad and diverse audience through the preservation and sharing of its extraordinary collections.

Purpose

This is a grant-funded, temporary, full-time, three-year position without the possibility of renewal. The Digital Imaging Technician will report to the Head of Digital Imaging and will photograph and digitize collection materials from the Center's Art Collection that have been identified as cataloging priorities by the Curator of Art. Although primarily consisting of works on paper, such as prints and drawings, materials may also include a limited number of paintings and textiles. Produces, processes, and performs quality control on preservation and access images; coordinates with cataloging, conservation, and Digital Collection Services staff; and prepares digital files and associated technical information for ingest into Qi and public access.

Responsibilities

• Assesses digitization needs and performs digital imaging of works of art and other collection materials using digital cameras and specialized imaging equipment, including the Digital Transitions DT ION and RGC180. Determines appropriate imaging setups based on the size, format, and condition of collection materials. Handles fragile and rare collection materials according to established best practices.
• Coordinate with the Art Cataloger to identify condition, housing, or handling concerns before and during imaging. Pauses work when necessary and consults with Conservation staff regarding safe handling, object supports, treatment status, and imaging readiness.
• Ensures the quality and accuracy of digital images. Performs post-processing and prepares digital files and associated technical metadata for preservation and access. Verifies file completeness, naming, image quality, and record association; uploads approved files to AWS; and associates images with records in the Center's collection management system.
• Maintains accurate production records and tracks objects completed, images created, and other project metrics required for workflow management and grant reporting. Works efficiently in a high-volume, deadline-driven production environment while maintaining established standards for object safety, image quality, and file accuracy.
• Performs other related functions as assigned.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in photography, studio art, museum studies, library and information science, digital archives, or a related field.
• Demonstrated experience with digital photography and digital reformatting.
• Knowledge of digital imaging software and hardware.
• Good organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work independently and as a team member.
• Excellent attention to detail and problem-solving skills.
• Equivalent combination of relevant education and experience may be substituted as appropriate.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience working in a professional photography studio, museum imaging studio, or digitization lab.
• Experience photographing works of art or other cultural heritage collections.
• Experience with Phase One camera systems, Capture One Cultural Heritage, or comparable color-managed cultural heritage imaging systems.
• Experience working on high-volume or project-based digitization initiatives.
• Familiarity with handling fragile library, archival, and museum materials.

Pay

$45,000

Working Conditions

• May work around standard office conditions.
• Repetitive use of a keyboard at a workstation.

Required Application Materials

• A Resume is required in order to apply
• A Letter of Interest is required in order to apply.
• 3 work references with their contact information.