Development Librarian (Makerspaces)

Kirklees Council; England; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 34,000; Full time

Job summary

A local council is seeking a dedicated professional to manage their library Makerspaces across Kirklees. The role involves developing innovative STEM programs and engaging the community through hands-on learning experiences. Applicants should possess a relevant degree and strong skills in maker technologies. This position offers a temporary contract, with a salary of £30,989 – £33,062 based on experience.

Qualifications

• Experience in a Makerspace or related environment is required.
• Familiarity with coding and maker technologies is necessary.
• Strong interpersonal skills and ability to foster innovation.

Responsibilities

• Manage development and operations of library Makerspaces.
• Implement and maintain Makerspace programs for diverse users.
• Create a welcoming environment for all community members.

Skills

Strong technical skills in maker technologies

Excellent communication skills

Creative problem-solving

Ability to work independently

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Education, Library Science, STEM, or related field

Tools

3D modelling tools

Fabrication tools

Job description

Recruitment Policy

We adopt a ‘name blind’ approach to shortlisting. Recruiting managers will not have access to personal information, including your name and contact details, until a shortlisting decision has been made - please note that this also includes any CV uploaded. Equality monitoring information is not accessible by recruiting managers at any stage.

Organisation

Kirklees

Directorate

Adults & Health

Service Area

Communities and Access Service

Hours

30

Number of Jobs

1

Location(s)

Across Kirklees

Position type

Temporary

Length of contract

Two years after appointment

Grade

10

Salary

£30,989 – £33,062

Advert Wording

Kirklees Libraries are currently developing a Makerspace offer with locations initially planned for Dewsbury and Huddersfield Library Hubs. This role will have responsibility for the creation, development, and operation of the library service’s Makerspaces and linked STEM/STEAM activities. They will facilitate hands‑on, innovative learning experiences by providing access to tools, resources, and programs that promote creativity, STEM/STEAM education, and community engagement. They will collaborate with staff, patrons, and community partners to create a dynamic environment that encourages exploration, learning, and skills development.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage the strategic development of the offer including a ‘business model’ to ensure financial viability and sustainability into the future. This will include budget management, identifying income streams and applying for external funding.
• Develop, implement, and maintain Makerspace programs, workshops, and activities for diverse user groups that meet the needs of local communities and provide a balance of free and chargeable activities.
• Manage the day‑to‑day operations of the Makerspace, including creating and managing an effective booking system, curating and acquiring tools and materials, equipment maintenance, inventory management, and ensuring health safety procedures are implemented and adhered to.
• A proportion of this role will be directly delivering activities, events and learning opportunities to customers and communities. The postholder should foster an inclusive, welcoming environment that encourages experimentation, collaboration, and innovation.
• Collaborate with library staff, other council services, volunteers, educators, community organisations, and vendors to develop partnerships and outreach initiatives.
• Create and deliver a marketing plan promoting Makerspace activities through innovative marketing, displays, advocacy and outreach to increase awareness and participation.
• Establish performance monitoring processes in line with service and council approaches and priorities. Promote continuous improvement, create clear evaluation methods and ways of demonstrating impact with a focus on social and economic value.
• Management of technicians/apprentices/volunteers including creation of volunteering and work experience programmes, recruitment, training, development and performance management.
• Stay current with trends in maker education, new technologies, and best practices in library programming.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Education, Library Science, STEM, or related field (or equivalent experience) required
• Experience in a Makerspace, STEM education, or related environment.
• Strong technical skills with familiarity in 3D modelling, fabrication tools, coding, and other maker technologies.
• Excellent communication, instructional, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Creative problem‑solving skills and a passion for fostering innovation and learning.

Work Environment

This position involves working in a Makerspace, library settings and in communities with flexibility to accommodate program activities that could include evenings and weekends. The role requires physical activity related to equipment setup and maintenance. There is a requirement to travel between locations across Kirklees. The interviews are expected to take place Thursday 4th December 2025.

Contact

Jaz Long is the manager for this role, please contact them on 01484 221000 for an informal discussion, or if you need any more information.

Support for Applicants with Disability

We know there’s a wealth of talent among people who have a disability and we encourage applications from people with all differing abilities. So, if you need any support completing an application form, or any other format for the application or Job Description please contact the Recruitment Team for help by e‑mail or phone: [phone] and ask for ‘Recruitment’.

Internal Secondment

If you are internal and want to apply for this job as a secondment you must be a substantive employee of the Council with over 6 months continuous service and have successfully completed your probation period. Applications for secondments will only be accepted if approved by your manager, you will be asked to confirm on your application form that you have the relevant permission. If you are refused permission to apply for a secondment, please contact HR Recruitment to register the refusal.

Safeguarding Statement

We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of vulnerable adults and children and young people and expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment.

Closing date

18 November 2025, 11:55 PM

Important Information