The MSU Library seeks an editor to review the final versions of approximately 220 transcripts representing about 180 hours of recordings. 

Scope of the Project

The editor will do the final editorial review on all transcripts to ensure compliance with the MSU Library’s standard for audio and video transcripts (attached). Some existing transcripts are good and require little work; some will be more difficult due to audio recording quality issues. The editor will also revise existing titles and abstracts, and correct and normalize dates, for each recording to better represent the scope and contents of each recording. 

The MSU Library uses HappyScribe for transcription, which produces a reasonably good first draft of the transcripts. The editor will be given access to the HappyScribe software as a part of this project. The editor will review the transcripts for accuracy and ensure that all personal names, places, and other proper nouns are rendered and spelled correctly for accurate keyword search.

This project can be completed entirely remotely; no physical presence is required. Weekly check-ins with the Head of Archives and Special Collections or Digital Operations Manager by video are required to confirm progress and quality levels. Contractor can work on a flexible schedule.

The work should be complete by June 30, 2027.

Background Information

The Ivan Doig papers are one of the signature collections of Archives and Special Collections at the MSU Library. Series 7 of the papers consists of audio recordings of interviews and readings given by Doig. While the audio recordings were digitized in 2015-2016 when the papers were prepared, they were not transcribed. 

To meet the MSU Library’s standards for accessibility, all audio and video collections presented online must have a transcript that meets the library’s standard for audio and video transcripts. The aim is to present a coherent and 95% accurate rendering of the interview with correct speaker attributions and careful attention to correct place, organization, and personal names.

Qualifications

Fluency with American English, including a demonstrated ability to discern and accurately transcribe words quickly from context.

Demonstrated experience editing products such as transcripts and manuscripts with expectations for quality and thoroughness.

Demonstrated ability to balance thorough review with time constraints.

Ability to work independently, communicate clearly, and to be reliable.

Eligibility to work in the United States.

Knowledge of Doig and associated western writers is preferred but not required.

Compensation 

Billable at $50/hour every 30 days, with a total not to exceed $9000.  

This work requires that the editor supply their own reliable access to the internet and a computer with appropriate hardware and software to connect to Trint. 

Application 

Please send an application that includes a brief (two page) CV and a letter of interest to jodi.allisonbunnell@montana.edu. Candidates selected for an interview will do a skills test to demonstrate their skills. 

Open until filled.