Makerspace Assistant

Reports to: Head of Digital and Maker Services

Grade: IV

Position Summary:

The Makerspace Assistant supports a creative and user-centered environment, assisting Library patrons and staff with access to Makerspace services, equipment, and technologies. This role provides technical guidance and helps with the ongoing development of Makerspace offerings.

Schedule: Average 17.5 hours per week, Includes Evening and Weekend Hours

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Staff the Makerspace during open hours, providing instructional guidance to patrons on equipment use.
• Maintain inventory of materials and supplies.
• Assist with training staff and patrons on Makerspace equipment.
• Troubleshoot and maintain equipment.
• Cultivate an atmosphere conducive to learning, creating, and exploring.
• Demonstrate proficiency with various hardware and software and comfort with a hands-on approach.

Qualifications:

• Demonstrated proficiency and comfort with a variety of hardware and software, including physical computing, video/audio production, and desktop fabrication.
• Ability to improvise and work with audiences of varied ages.
• Customer service experience is required.
• Associate's degree or two years of college completed.
• Three or more years of experience working in a Makerspace or public library setting is preferred.

Personal Attributes:

Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the patience and creativity to guide patrons of varied ages and skill levels. An independent worker who exhibits initiative, sound judgment, and adaptability when troubleshooting new technologies. Works positively and effectively both independently and as part of a team, and maintains a service-oriented, approachable demeanor with staff and the public.

Working Conditions:

This position involves working independently in a busy, public-facing environment, including evening and weekend hours. Work is performed in a Makerspace setting that may involve exposure to noise and fumes from tools and equipment such as 3D printers, laser cutters, and other fabrication tools.

Physical Requirements:

• Regularly required to stand, walk, sit, use hands to handle or feel, reach with hands and arms, push, pull, carry, bend, stretch, kneel, talk and hear.
• Dexterity to perform data entry and operate Makerspace hardware, tools, and equipment.
• Ability to lift or move materials and supplies weighing up to 25 pounds.
• Specific vision abilities include close vision and the ability to adjust focus for detailed technical work.

Probationary Period: 12 months

This job description is a general guide to the duties and responsibilities of the position, and is not intended to list every possible task that an employee may be directed to perform.

All prospective employees are subject to a background check. The Elk Grove Village Public Library is an equal opportunity employer.

Location

Elk Grove Village Public Library, Cook County

Hours

Average 17.5 hours per week. Includes evening and weekend hours.