Maker Lab Assistant
Description

Department: Outreach and Programs Department

Reports to: Branch Manager


CORE VALUES

  • Adaptability. We are outwardly focused, service-oriented, and staffed by continuous learners.
  • Equality. We welcome all with the same measure of respect, warmth, and acceptance.
  • Accountability. We are an interdependent team holding ourselves mutually accountable for delivering results that are relevant to our community’s needs. 
  • Integrity. We embody these values in every aspect of our operation, building personal and institutional bridges which facilitate productive, trusting relationships.


EQUITY, DIVERSITY, AND INCLUSION STATEMENT  


We vow our commitment to advancing the Library's embrace of equity, diversity, and inclusion. We recognize our obligation to enhance the diversity of our collections, programs, services, and staff. The Library aims to embody the tenets of social responsibility so that our actions bring about an improved quality of life for our patrons, our staff, and our community at large. 


NATURE OF WORK 


This position is for an energetic, self-motivated, problem-solving, creative, and team-oriented librarian. This person is responsible for various day-to-day operations of the Maker Lab including equipment maintenance, planned activities and programming. This person provides consistent and friendly service and maintains an atmosphere conducive to learning. Above all, this person will inspire imagination, draw out potential, and create a gathering place for the community while contributing to the overall vision and goals of the Maker Lab.


ESSENTIAL POSITION FUNCTIONS 

  • Oversees the Maker Lab, working closely with Programmers to develop and maintain Maker- and STEM- related programming for patrons of all ages and abilities, as well as the IT department to assist in all aspects of the daily operation and use of the Maker Lab.
  • Creates a welcoming and collaborative environment, assisting members of the public in using equipment and software, explaining and enforcing Maker Lab policies, answering inquiries about the space and equipment, giving tours of the space, maintaining a clean and organized space, and ensuring a high level of safety at all times.
  • Trains and assists patrons in the Maker Lab with a variety of machinery, including 3D printers, Cricut, sublimation printer, sewing machines, etc.; makes recommendations for service and equipment improvements in the Maker Lab.
  • Operates and maintains equipment and software and maintains inventory and supplies for the Maker Lab.
  • Develops and implements new and emerging technology, services, and projects for the Maker Lab.
  • Develops a training plan for staff on relevant equipment; informs staff of updates or changes to equipment or procedure.
  • Tracks and creates reports based on makerspace usage, establish performance benchmarks, gathers and analyzes statistics.
  • Performs other duties as assigned.


Requirements

JOB REQUIREMENTS

  • High school diploma or equivalent, some college preferred.
  • A minimum of two years experience in computer or technology-related services.
  • Understands and utilizes the network architecture.
  • Proficient in MS Office suite, including Excel and Outlook.
  • Reads and speaks English proficiently.
  • Must be willing to work evenings and weekends as required.


SKILLS AND CHARACTERISTICS

  • Excellent technology troubleshooting skills and problem-solving abilities.
  • Experience or familiarity with the operation and processes involved with 3D printing, sublimation printing, sewing, and the use of basic hand tools is highly desirable.
  • Communicates effectively in written and oral expression, particularly in communication technical topics to novices, including patrons.
  • Strong attention to detail.
  • Strong people skills coupled with a commitment to providing excellent customer service to patrons and staff. 
  • Works both independently and collaboratively.
  • Adapts to change.
  • Effectively learns and integrates new technologies.
  • Exercises reasonable and independent judgment.
  • Manages and prioritizes multiple tasks.
  • Bends, reaches, and lifts objects up to 20 pounds.
  • Demonstrates flexibility to work various shifts to accommodate the needs of the position, including evenings and weekends.
  • Communicates effectively with staff and patrons, both orally and in writing.
  • Talks about technology in a user-friendly way with patrons and staff.
  • Interprets and implements library policy.
  • Works on multiple projects simultaneously.
  • Works both independently and with staff in a team environment.
  • Reads and writes, including by hand or typing.
  • Understands and follows verbal and written directions. 
  • Projects a positive attitude and excellent interpersonal skills, even under stress.


PHYSICAL DEMANDS


The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

  • While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to talk and hear.  
  • The employee frequently is required to stand, walk, sit, stoop, kneel; use hands to handle or feel; reach with hands and arms; lift files, open filing cabinets, and bend or stand as necessary.
  • The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds. 
  • Specific vision requirements include the ability to see at close range. 
  • Fine hand manipulation (keyboarding).


WORK ENVIRONMENT

  • Internal office space. This role routinely uses standard office equipment such as computers, phones, photocopiers, filling cabinets and fax machines, as well as more specialized equipment associated with a Maker Lab.
  • Exposure to dust.


WORK DEVICES

  • 3D printer, sublimation printer, Cricut, sewing machine, etc.
  • General office equipment. 


Bullitt County Public Library is an AA, EEO and ADA employer