Maker/Learning Lab Assistant

About the role

This position is for an energetic, self-motivated, problem-solving, creative, and team-oriented librarian. This person is responsible for various day-to-day operations of the Maker/Learning Lab, including equipment maintenance, planned activities, and events. This person consistently provides friendly service and maintains an atmosphere conducive to learning.

Responsibilities

• Oversees the Maker/Learning Lab, working closely with Event Planners to develop and maintain Maker- and STEM-related events for patrons of all ages and abilities, as well as the IT department to assist in all aspects of the daily operation and use of the Maker/Learning Lab.
• Creates a welcoming and collaborative environment, assisting members of the public in using equipment and software, explaining and enforcing Maker/Learning Lab policies, answering inquiries about the space and equipment, giving tours of the space, maintaining a clean and organized space, and ensuring a high level of safety at all times.
• Trains and assists patrons in the Maker/Learning Lab with a variety of machinery, including 3D printers, Cricut, sublimation printer, sewing machines, etc.; makes recommendations for service and equipment improvements in the Maker/Learning Lab.
• Operates and maintains equipment, software, inventory, and supplies for the Maker/Learning Lab.
• Develops and implements new and emerging technology, services, and projects for the Maker/Learning Lab.
• Develops a training plan for staff on relevant equipment; informs staff of updates or changes to equipment or procedure.
• Tracks and creates reports based on space usage, establishes performance benchmarks, and gathers and analyzes statistics.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent, some college preferred.
• A minimum of two years’ experience in computer or technology-related services.
• Understands and utilizes the network architecture.
• Proficient in MS Office suite, including Excel and Outlook.
• Reads and speaks English proficiently.
• Must be willing to work evenings and weekends as required.

Skills and Characteristics

• Excellent technology troubleshooting skills and problem-solving abilities.
• Experience or familiarity with the operation and processes involved with 3D printing, sublimation printing, sewing, and the use of basic hand tools is highly desirable.
• Communicates effectively in written and oral expression, particularly in communicating technical topics to novices, including patrons.
• Strong attention to detail.
• Strong people skills coupled with a commitment to providing excellent customer service to patrons and staff.
• Works both independently and collaboratively.
• Adapts to change.
• Effectively learns and integrates new technologies.
• Exercises reasonable and independent judgment.
• Manages and prioritizes multiple tasks.
• Demonstrates flexibility to work various shifts to accommodate the needs of the position, including evenings and weekends.
• Communicates effectively with staff and patrons, both orally and in writing.
• Talks about technology in a user-friendly way with patrons and staff.
• Interprets and implements library policy.
• Works on multiple projects simultaneously.
• Works both independently and with staff in a team environment.
• Reads and writes, including by hand or typing.
• Understands and follows verbal and written directions.
• Projects a positive attitude and excellent interpersonal skills, even under stress.

Physical Demands

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to talk and hear. The employee frequently is required to stand, walk, sit, stoop, kneel; use hands to handle or feel; reach with hands and arms; lift files, open filing cabinets, and bend or stand as necessary.

The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds. Specific vision requirements include the ability to see at close range. Fine hand manipulation.

Work Environment

Internal office space. This role routinely uses standard office equipment, such as computers, phones, photocopiers, filing cabinets, and fax machines, as well as more specialized equipment associated with a Maker/Learning Lab.

Exposure to dust.

Work Devices

3D printer, sublimation printer, Cricut, sewing machine, etc.

General office equipment.