Makerspace Educational Assistant - Abraar Elementary

The Muslim Association of Canada; Ottawa; On-site; CAD 28,000 - 32,000; Part time

Job summary

The Muslim Association of Canada is seeking an Educational Assistant for the Makerspace at Abraar Elementary School in Ottawa, ON. This position supports teachers in delivering hands-on STEAM learning with an Islamic foundation, including 3D printing, robotics, coding, and design challenges.

The role emphasizes designing, facilitating, and coordinating engaging activities, while ensuring safety, inclusivity, and effective communication with staff and students.

Qualifications

• Minimum: High school diploma with completion of an approved training course in the field.
• Preferred: Degree or diploma in Education, Engineering, Art/Design, Computer Science, or a related field.
• Minimum: Prior experience working with children or an equivalent combination of training and experience.
• Preferred: Experience with fabrication tools and maker technologies (3D printers, laser cutters, microcontrollers like Arduino/Raspberry Pi).
• Proficient in computers and computer software is essential.
• First Aid certification and familiarity with safety standards for tool use.
• Knowledge of design thinking, project-based learning, or inquiry-based education.

Responsibilities

• Assist in designing workshops, classes, and open lab sessions (3D printing, robotics, electronics, coding, textiles).
• Develop inclusive, age-appropriate curriculum and project ideas aligned with STEAM andOntario Curriculum.
• Align Makerspace activities with Tarbiyah framework.
• Maintain a clean, safe Makerspace environment and manage tools and equipment.
• Organize showcases, exhibitions, or events to celebrate projects and innovations.
• Track usage data, inventory, and budgets; maintain Master Calendar.
• Support teachers and students with instructional and non-instructional tasks.

Skills

Creative problem-solving

Project planning

First Aid certification

Education

High school diploma + approved training

Degree or diploma in Education/Engineering/Art-Design/CS

Tools

3D printers

Laser cutters

Arduino

Raspberry Pi

Microcontrollers

Job description

Fixed Term Contract Part Time Ottawa, ON, Ottawa, ON, CA

Salary Range: $20.00 To $23.00 Hourly

Job Summary

Educational Assistants (EAs) are integral members of the school’s educational team, providing essential support that contributes to student success. They assist homeroom teachers in instructional duties, working under the supervision of the Vice Principal and following directions from the homeroom teacher to support individual and group learning. Abraar Elementary School is seeking an innovative, passionate, and organized Educational Assistant for their Makerspace to assist with and coordinate engaging, hands-on learning experiences in our STEAM Makerspace. This creative space is dedicated to experimental, project-based learning that enhances and enriches the Ontario Curriculum with a strong emphasis on Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Mathematics (STEAM) with an Islamic foundation. The EA for Makerspace will assist in designing, facilitating, and supporting student-centered activities with homeroom teachers that foster curiosity, critical thinking, creativity, and collaboration. From coding and robotics to simple machines and creative design challenges, the Makerspace EA will help students bring theory to life through meaningful, real-world problem solving.

Duties and Responsibilities

The Makerspace EA will perform a range of tasks, including but not limited to:

Program Development & Facilitation

Assist in the design of workshops, classes, and open lab sessions in areas such as 3D printing, robotics, electronics, coding, textiles, and design thinking.

Develop inclusive, age-appropriate curriculum and project ideas that align with STEAM principles and user interests and the Ontario Curriculum.

Align Makerspace Activities with the Tarbiyah framework.

Space & Equipment Management

Maintain a clean, safe, and well-organized Makerspace environment.

Monitor and maintain all tools, equipment, and materials, including troubleshooting and performing basic repairs.

Ensure safety protocols are followed and users are properly trained on equipment.

Community Engagement

Inspire and support a diverse community of makers, including students, educators, families, etc.

Promote a collaborative, inclusive, and respectful space.

Organize showcases, exhibitions, or events to celebrate school projects and innovations.

Administrative & Strategic Tasks

Track usage data, inventory, and budgets.

Collaborate with staff to integrate makerspace experiences into larger programs or curriculum

Research and recommend new tools, materials, and emerging technologies.

Plan for teachers best suited times for each activity and help maintain Master Calendar

Communicate plans of activities with staff in advance with details, requirements, etc.

Obtain feedback from teachers regarding activities

Ensure budget is used effectively and efficiently

Track expenditures using an on-going spreadsheet

Manage database of pictures/videos for marketing purposes

Attract sponsors and fundraising for Makerspace resources and activities.

Other Tasks

Assisting in workshops and laboratories.

Supporting student supervision.

Preparing and organizing teaching materials for Makespace activities.

Supporting teachers in achieving instructional, social, behavioral, and spiritual goals.

Attending to students' physical needs.

Performing additional support duties as needed.

Work Schedule

The EA’s schedule is determined by the administration based on school requirements. Start and finish times, as well as lunch breaks, may vary depending on the specific needs of the program.

Performance Expectations

Performance evaluations will be conducted at the end of Term 1 and Term 3 by the Vice Principal/Administrator. The following categories outline key expectations for EAs:

1. Islamic Understanding, Behavior, and Contribution

Adheres to the Islamic dress code as outlined in the Employment Contract.

Demonstrates appropriate Islamic behavior and attitude within the school community.

Respects diverse Fiqh opinions while maintaining a balanced understanding of Islam.

Contributes to the school’s Islamic environment.

Supports the school's mission of Islamic education.

2. Professional Behavior

Fosters a respectful atmosphere for students and staff.

Maintains ethical conduct and confidentiality.

Manages time effectively with minimal supervision.

Demonstrates responsibility in attendance and scheduling.

Resolves conflicts professionally, escalating concerns when necessary.

Participates in school activities and contributes positively to the school environment.

3. Rapport with Students

Engages students with enthusiasm.

Demonstrates patience and understanding.

Treats students fairly, respecting their physical, social, psychological, and spiritual development.

Maintains cooperative relationships with students.

Responds appropriately to student interactions.

4. Team Support

Collaborates effectively within school teams.

Communicates professionally with staff, administrators, and parents

Shares relevant information in meetings and conferences.

Uses established communication systems (e.g., logs, reports) for monitoring and discussion.

Engages with parents as directed by the homeroom teacher.

5. Instructional Support

Assists students with classwork, reinforcing lessons taught by the teacher.

Monitors independent and small-group learning activities.

Conducts reading and listening exercises.

Provides instructional support when needed.

Adjusts materials according to teacher guidance.

Assists students in achieving academic goals.

Ensures a safe and supportive learning environment.

6. Social and Behavioral Support

Provides feedback and reinforcement based on the teacher’s classroom management plan.

Encourages positive behaviors and redirects inappropriate conduct.

Supports peer cooperation and teamwork among students.

Assists in monitoring disciplinary measures.

Maintains student behavior records as required.

7. Non-Instructional Support

Prepares instructional materials such as games, posters, and booklets.

Designs bulletin board displays.

Assists with clerical tasks (e.g., copying, recording, emailing).

Provides supervision during recess, lunch, and bus duty.

Assists with students' physical needs (e.g., feeding, mobility, dressing).

Administers medication as needed, following school policy.

Qualifications and Experience

Candidates must meet the following requirements:

Education:

Minimum: High school diploma with completion of an approved training course in the field.

Preferred: Degree or diploma in Education, Engineering, Art/Design, Computer Science, or a related field.

Experience:

Minimum: Prior experience working with children or an equivalent combination of training and experience. Ability to troubleshoot and maintain technical equipment.

Preferred: Experience working with fabrication tools and maker technologies (e.g., 3D printers, laser cutters, microcontrollers like Arduino/Raspberry Pi, etc.). Experience teaching or mentoring learners of different ages and abilities.

Additional Skills:

Proficient in computers and computer software is essential.

Specific special skills or training may be required.

Creative problem-solving and project planning abilities.

Preferred Qualifications & Skills

Knowledge of design thinking, project-based learning, or inquiry-based education.

First Aid certification and familiarity with safety standards for tool use.

Equal Opportunity Statement

MAC is committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion. We provide equal employment opportunities to all, without discrimination based on race, gender, disability, or any other protected status. Accommodations are available upon request during the hiring process.