Makerspace Specialist

The Orangeville Public Library has an opportunity available for the position of Makerspace Specialist. This position will work with other town divisions seeking opportunities to collaborate and coordinate the delivery of services that are progressive and responsive to customer needs, forming the foundation of an inclusive, active and healthy community. The Makerspace Specialist is expected to be a strong team player who lives our values to create memorable customer experiences so everyone can reach new heights, creating a collaborative space to engage the community with innovative opportunities for learning, creation, and discovery.

Job duties

• Overseeing the Makerspace, including:
  • recommending equipment, and staying abreast of emerging trends and develop a plan to continuously evolve and improve the space with emerging technology.
  • providing setup, including but not limited to installation and configuration of Makerspace software, hardware and peripheral devices.
  • operational support and maintaining equipment and software for the Makerspace which includes maintaining an equipment status dashboard.
  • instructional support and demonstrating an interest in and ability to use and troubleshoot technology of all kinds while helping patrons in the makerspace
  • maintaining a clean, safe and welcoming environment for makerspace users

• Assisting patrons in the makerspace with a variety of software and machinery including 3D printers, paper cutting machines, analog-to-digital transfer equipment, digital editing software, camera/videography equipment etc.; providing direct technical support, training and troubleshooting assistance to staff and the public; and co-ordinating with supervisor to allocate staff resources and meet program needs.
• Developing, planning, implementing, and evaluating programs with a focus on emerging technologies and digital literacy; executes programs responsive to community needs; and develops and runs STEAM themed programs.
• Developing and recommending guidelines, including but not limited to cost recovery schedules and inventory of supplies; creating and maintaining Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for each major equipment category; handling patron information in accordance with applicable privacy practices to maintain records and privacy; researching and making recommendations for technical features, enhancements or changes; seeking, recommending, and completing grant funding, award submissions and program opportunities; and maintaining and keeping current technology inventory database and documents technical issues.
• Collaborating between various Town Divisions or community organizations to provide accessible literacy and community programs; using findings to recommend a rolling 6-to-12-month makerspace service plan; providing technical support to facilitators, audiences, or partners; and working collaboratively with Public Services staff to promote library services that directly market and promote makerspace services/programs.
• Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• University degree in a related field, specializing in Library and information, community development, education, instructional technology, digital media, engineering/technology, community development, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Three (3) years of experience facilitating, conducting, coordinating programs/meetings.
• Valid Class G driver’s license.
• Demonstrated experience operating, maintaining, and troubleshooting public-facing technology (hardware/software) in a service environment.
• Experience delivering technology training.
• Demonstrated knowledge of various computer applications, current and emerging library systems, Microsoft Office programs and library eResources.
• Proven ability to serve customers effectively and positively in a busy environment; ability to run programs and/or facilitate public meetings; and ability to translate technical steps into clear, accessible instruction for diverse learners.

Successful candidates will be required to complete a background check, including but not limited to a Vulnerable Sector Check, in accordance with the duties of this position.