Makerspace Specialist

Providence Public Library•Providence, RI

14h•$0 - $20•Onsite

About The Position

We are seeking an innovative, hands-on, and community-focused Makerspace Specialist to help inspire creativity, curiosity, and lifelong learning through Providence Public Library's makerspace. As a member of the Youth Services team, you will support engaging maker education programs for children, teens, and adults while providing exceptional service in the Workshop. The ideal candidate enjoys teaching others, is comfortable using makerspace technologies such as 3D printers, laser cutters, vinyl cutters, sewing machines, and other creative tools, and thrives in a collaborative, fast-paced environment. This role offers the opportunity to mentor youth, facilitate equipment trainings and Open Studios, encourage creative exploration, and help cultivate an inclusive makerspace where community members of all ages can discover new skills, solve problems, and bring their ideas to life. This position is part of PPL’s Youth Services Department that delivers programming and library services to children, teens, and their families. They also contribute to the design, planning, and implementation of the vision for a full range of high impact programs for youth in alignment with the overall strategic plan of PPL. In addition to supporting Youth Services programming, this position will help staff the Workshop.

Requirements

Experience using makerspace tools, including 3D printers, laser cutters, vinyl cutters, sewing machines, and other technology.
Google applications (Gmail, Meet, Drive, Docs, Sheets, Forms) and other various Google applications experience required.
Knowledge of Zoom, Google Meet or other web-conferencing software or applications.

Nice To Haves

Sound studio equipment knowledge is a plus.
Bilingual Spanish/English is a plus.

Responsibilities

Support in the creation, design, and implementation of programs for children and teens based on connected learning principles with special emphasis on 21st Century and social emotional skill development.
Support in the development and implementation of programs and services to meet the needs of patrons and the community.
Actively staff Equipment Trainings and Open Studios.
Provide regular updates to the Maker Education Manager on makerspace usage, needs, and challenges.
Provide direct assistance to patrons including the use of makerspace tools, including 3D printers, laser cutters, and other technology.
Create an inviting, fun, and safe environment for youth and adults that inspires learning and creativity.
Help facilitate workflow and successful delivery of ongoing, drop-in, and one-time-only programs.
Assist with Youth Services data and outcomes collection and contribute to reports and analysis as needed.
Mentor and coach youth and provide direct student support.
Visit schools, organizations, and agencies outside of the library as needed.
Actively recruit Youth and Families to participate in programs and assist them with registration as needed.
Actively staff the Workshop and enforce Library and specific policies within the space as needed.
Communicate and collaborate with library staff on areas related to service to youth and families and contribute to overall Youth Services Department goals.
Participate in all staff and department meetings and committees as required.