Job Description
Manages PPL’s Workshop area, utilizing the tools, techniques and methodology of the Maker Education Movement. Handle the day-to-day operations of the workshop like organizing materials and equipment and scheduling the use of the equipment. Leverage own skills and the local community of makers, educators & professionals in programming and events. Utilize infrastructure, connections, knowledge & experience in order to strengthen the impact of the workshop. This position will also expand the PVDMakers initiative of innovating Providence libraries in order to build a supportive community of makers, artists, entrepreneurs & activists for both Youth and Adults.
Primary Duties & Responsibilities:
- Ordering of consumable supplies and equipment
- Regular maintenance and repair of Maker machines and technology
- Manage community volunteers
- Training PPL staff and librarians to be able to deliver programs of their own.
- Develop users with skills that can translate into employment, entrepreneurship, and higher education.
- Develop the equipment training hierarchy/badging system and deliver those classes to users, allowing the users to progress in their skill building.
- Conduct safety training and equipment use training to any using the equipment.
- As the hub for the PVD Maker program, this position will work with the PVD Maker teen interns assigned to PPL by training, coaching, and mentoring them as they work with the other users and hold workshops.
- Manage PVDMakers Teens at PPL by working with other PVD Maker staff to train the cohort of teen interns and assist with their ongoing training and coaching, which happens weekly.
- Scheduling Open Studio, Workshops, and Classes
- Liaison between PPL and PVDMakers
- Improving & Expanding Community Engagement
- Building & Maintaining Relationships with Community Partners
- Development of Maker programs and classes
- Overseeing Makerspace day to day operations to include scheduling the use of equipment and organizing the necessary materials for patrons coming in to use the equipment
Additional Skills:
- Possesses an awareness and sensitivity in interacting with diverse populations
- Work independently while understanding the necessity for communicating and coordinating work efforts with other employees and organizations.
- Work effectively as a team contributor on all assignments.
- Interact professionally with other employees, patrons, vendors, and suppliers.
- Perform quality work within deadlines with or without direct supervision.
- Comfortable working with various technology (i.e. Microsoft programs, Google Docs/Drive).
- Strong attention to details and strong organizational skills.
- Excellent verbal and written skills.
- Experience in developing and delivering programs in a variety of Maker Space related areas and at varying skill levels.
Education & Experience Required:
- Experience with Arduino or other microcontroller platforms strongly preferred
- Experience with the supervision of student interns.
- Experience with makerspace operations including safety and training
- Demonstrated ability to lead socially-themed workshops and other activities associated with the Makerspace.
- Experience developing innovative student-centered projects
- Familiarity of other programming languages: Python, JavaScript, visual block languages (Scratch, AppInventor, etc
- Knowledge of safety protocols with various machinery
- Strong technical skills in the use and maintenance of makerspace equipment and associated software tools
- 2+ years experience in makerspace operations and education
- College degree preferred or equivalent experience in a STEM related field such as Computer Science, Engineering, Instructional Technology, or Instructional Design, or a related field
Additional Requirements:
- Physical requirements – ability to occasionally lift/move up to 25 lbs.
- Position Location – Providence, RI, and potentially other locations throughout RI
- Driving/Travel requirements – 10% - 25%
This position is:
- Non-Exempt and is not part of the Union
- Hours: 35 hours per week, flexible schedule needed
- Hourly Rate: $21 - $24 based on experience
Please submit cover letter and resume by August 9, 2021
Submit Cover Letter and Resume to:
E-mail: HR@provlib.org
The Providence Public Library
Attn: HR
150 Empire Street
Providence, RI 02903
Fax: 401-455-8002
Equal Opportunity
In order to provide equal employment and advancement opportunities to all individuals, employment decisions at the Providence Public Library are based on merit, qualifications, and abilities. PPL is committed to a policy of non-discrimination and equal opportunity for all employees and qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth or medical or common conditions related to pregnancy or childbirth), sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, marital status, familial status, national origin, ancestry, age (40 and above), disability, veteran status, military service, application for military service, genetic information, receipt of free medical care, or any other characteristic protected under applicable law. PPL will make reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with known disabilities, in accordance with applicable law.
The Community
Providence Public Library (PPL) is a 144-year-old nonprofit corporation providing free public library services through its rich and historic physical and digital collections, extensive information resources, thought-provoking exhibitions, impactful educational programs, and expert staff.
PPL is continually transforming and focused on providing equally transformative experiences for all Rhode Islanders. The Library is actively expanding our reach through critical statewide collaborations and serving as an open and supportive teaching and learning place where communities can connect, experience, create and achieve, whether in our physical or virtual realms.
To achieve our mission, the Library is strategically focused on serving Rhode Island families and early care providers, teens, downcity residents, learners seeking workforce development, and those pursuing creative and scholarly endeavors.
Website
Www.provlib.org
Human Resources / Job Listings
https://www.provlib.org/about-us/job-opportunities/
HR Info
Email cover letter and resume to: HR@provlib.org
The Providence Public Library
ATTN: HR
150 Empire Street
Providence, RI 02903
OR fax to: 401-455-8002