YOUTH PROGRAM MAKER'S LAB SPECIALIST (Part-Time)

Chicago Youth Centers•Chicago, IL

72d•Onsite

About The Position

Chicago Youth Centers (CYC) is seeking a Part-Time Maker's Lab Specialist to join their team. This role is ideal for someone passionate about community impact and changing children's lives. The Maker's Lab Specialist will assist elementary, middle, and high school youth in utilizing the lab's computers, resources, and technology. Responsibilities also include managing the care, inventory, and checkout of equipment, and serving as a desk attendant. CYC serves over 3,000 children and families annually.

Requirements

Associate’s degree in a relevant field with three years of experience.
Job experience and/or coursework in computer technology, digital media or multimedia, a S.T.E.A.M. discipline, hardware or software applications and troubleshooting, Internet research, teaching or training
Proven knowledge of, and ability to use the technology associated with the Maker Space program
Skills with technology, art, craft, engineering, music, science, green design, and other Maker themes OR curiosity and commitment to quickly develop such skills
Knowledge in maintaining digital fabrication equipment including 3D printers, laser cutters, CNC routers, etc.
Experience teaching in an educational or youth development setting; specifically through project based learning

Nice To Haves

Bachelor’s Degree is a plus.
Bilingual language abilities is a plus.

Responsibilities

Create and maintain a supportive environment that is conducive to skill development and adolescent development based on youth interests and peer and intergenerational collaboration
Prepare Maker Space including setup, cleanup, and inventory of CYC equipment
Staff the Maker Space to engage with youth, recruit and promote workshops and CYC happenings, act as a mentor and guide, and to check out equipment
Operate and inventory a variety of site-specific equipment including but not limited to desktop and laptop computers (PC’s), printers, cameras, 3D printers, and vinyl cutters.
Instruct/assist in the instruction of classes on a variety of technology-related subjects including but not limited to digital media, the maker movement, or STEAM
Provide participants with regular opportunities to showcase work both through CYC and through other opportunities and venues
Assure that CYC youth participants understand options & career paths in STEAM-related fields
Identify and encourage CYC youth that show passion for STEAM, offering or referring special program opportunities
Create opportunities for youth to collaborate creatively and showcase their success locally, nationally and globally
Other duties as assigned
Embrace and demonstrate CYC’s Mantras: ATTITUDE MATTERS, CARE FOR REAL, OWN IT, PUSH FORWARD.