Job title: Metadata and Indexing Assistant (Junior)

About AOSIS

We are seeking a detail-oriented Metadata and Indexing Assistant (Junior) to support journal indexing,
metadata management, and records administration within our Indexing and Metadata Department.
This role is ideal for an organised early-career professional interested in scholarly publishing and
information management.

Key responsibilities

• 
  Maintain and update journal and book metadata across internal systems and external platforms
• 
  Assist with indexing applications, tracking submissions and compliance requirements
• 
  Support DOI management, metadata quality checks, and record audits
• 
  Maintain Editorial Board records and assist with reporting and renewals
• 
  Support internal and external archiving of journal content
• 
  Liaise with indexers, libraries, Editors-in-Chief, archiving services, and internal teams
• 
  Maintain accurate trackers, documentation, and departmental records

Minimum requirements

• 
  Qualification in Library and Information Studies or a related field
• 
  Very strong administrative and organisational skills
• 
  High accuracy attention to detail and ability to manage multiple deadlines
• 
  Good written and verbal communication skills
• 
  Strong MS Excel skills
• 
  Basic understanding of JATS XML
  — ability to recognise JATS structure, identify major elements, and follow internal tagging guidelines.

Preferred

• 
  Experience in scholarly publishing, library science, metadata management, or academic journal workflows.
• 
  Working knowledge of metadata standards and schemas (e.g., Crossref metadata, Dublin Core, ONIX, MARC).
• 
  Experience with indexing systems such as DOAJ, Scopus, Web of Science, PubMed Central, or institutional repositories.
• 
  Experience working with journal or book publishing platforms (e.g., OJS, OMP etc).
• 
  Intermediate JATS XML skills, such as the ability to make minor XML corrections, validate well‑formedness, or work with XML editing tools.
• 
  Familiarity with DOI workflows, reference linking, and/or Crossref deposits.
• 
  Experience with archival standards or preservation services (CLOCKSS/LOCKSS, PKP PN).

Benefits

Application Instructions

Please submit your CV and a short motivation letter detailing your experience. Please included the names, email addresses and telephone details of three referees we may contact.

Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

Other important information:

• 
  All shortlisted candidates may be required to participate in relevant skills assessments and psychometric tests as part of the selection process.
• 
  Applications will only be considered after the closing date or if they comply with at least the minimum requirements.
• 
  Ms Hannah Boast
  hannah@personastaff.co.za
  , for application-related enquiries.
• 
  AOSIS is committed to equality, employment equity and diversity. In accordance with the Employment Equity Plan of AOSIS and its Employment Equity goals and targets, preference may be given but is not limited to candidates from under-represented designated groups.
• 
  All candidates who comply with the requirements for appointment are invited to apply.
• 
  All candidates agree to undergo verification of personal credentials and criminal and credit checks (if applicable).
• 
  AOSIS reserves the right not to fill the advertised positions.
• 
  Applicants should be South African citizens, permanent residents with a bar-coded ID, or possess a valid work visa or permit.