Teen Technology Mentor (Part Time)

The New York Public Library•,

9d•Hybrid

About The Position

In support of the New York Public Library’s Teens 360º Initiative, the Teen Technology and Design team equips staff and teen patrons with the skills, resources, and creative technology experiences needed to support interest-driven, project-based learning. Reporting to the Associate Manager of Teen Technology & Design, the Teen Technology Mentor provides teen-centered creative technology instruction, digital literacy support, and mentorship to young adult patrons. This position is for someone interested in community development through education and informal learning. The Teen Technology Mentor supports young adult learners of diverse cultures, backgrounds, and skill levels through hands-on instruction using creative technology tools, including 3D printers, cutting machines, digital cameras, video and music editing software, digital art tools, microcontrollers, and other emerging technologies. The Teen Technology Mentor develops and adapts instructional content, facilitates weekly technology programs, supports safe and welcoming learning environments, and collaborates with Library staff to deliver programs across multiple New York Public Library Teen Center locations, with a special focus on sites located in the Bronx. This is a temporary, grant-funded position through September 30, 2028.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree or 4+ years of additional related experience
2+ years relevant work experience or an equivalent combination of education and experience
Experience teaching, instructing, mentoring, training, or facilitating programs for teens and young adults in an educational, library, community-based, or informal learning setting
Experience supporting learners with varying skill levels, backgrounds, and learning needs
Experience with creative technology software and tools, including nonlinear video editing software, digital audio workstations, photo editing software, computer-aided design, digital cameras, vinyl cutters, 3D printers, or related applications
Proficiency in one or more creative technology disciplines, such as digital art, photography, music/audio production, videography or filmmaking, graphic design, 3D modeling, robotics, coding, maker space technology, or related fields
Ability to facilitate group instruction, one-on-one support, and project-based technology learning experiences for teens with varying skill levels
Ability to use hands-on, learner-centered instructional techniques that encourage active learning, individual practice, exploration, and learning by doing
Working knowledge of Mac, PC, iOS, and commonly used digital platforms, with the ability to provide digital literacy support and basic troubleshooting
Strong aptitude for learning new and emerging creative technologies quickly and applying them in teen-centered programming
Commitment to creating a safe and welcoming environment for teens that supports unique, informal, and interest-driven learning
Strong interpersonal, oral, and written communication skills, with the ability to work independently, manage time and tasks, and collaborate with staff in a fast-paced, service-oriented environment

Responsibilities

Design, develop, modify, and facilitate instructor-led, project-based technology programs for teen patrons, adapting instruction to meet the needs of young adult learners with varying skill levels
Provide digital literacy and creative technology training in topics including visual art, music and audio production, 3D modeling and design, photography and videography, coding and robotics, digital fabrication, and general computer skills
Mentor young adult patrons and foster a positive, inclusive, and engaging learning environment that supports creative expression, skill-building, and youth development
Assist with operating, maintaining, and troubleshooting creative technology hardware and software in Teen Centers, including but not limited to 3D printers, craft cutting machines, digital and instant photography cameras, audio recorders and microphones, and Apple MacBooks and iPads equipped with Logic Pro, Final Cut Pro X, Procreate, Canva, Stop Motion Studio, and TinkerCAD
Collaborate with Young Adult Librarians, branch staff, and Teen Technology & Design colleagues to enhance instructional delivery, program content, outreach, and use of creative technology resources
Assist with outreach and promotion of Teen Center technology programs
Track program attendance, participant engagement, equipment usage, and other program data as required
Travel to multiple branch locations across New York City to deliver teen-centered technology instruction and programming
Perform other project-related duties as assigned