Maker Associate

Glen Ellyn Public Library; Glen Ellyn (IL); On-site; USD 17,000 - 25,000; Part time

Job summary

Glen Ellyn Public Library in Glen Ellyn, IL seeks an Adult Maker Associate to foster a welcoming makerspace under the Maker Services Coordinator. You will train users on laser cutting, 3D printing, sewing, design, and other emerging technologies, and help develop programs for teens and adults.

The role emphasizes strong customer service, clear communication, and hands-on teaching, with 20 hours per week across day, evening, and weekend shifts.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s in related field preferred, or demonstrated equivalent experience.
• Successful work experience with maker equipment.
• Ability to learn and instruct patrons on new technologies.
• Knowledge of two or more Maker technologies (laser, 3D printing, design software, fiber arts, etc.).
• Strong English communication skills; customer-focused approach.

Responsibilities

• Instruct and assist library users in makerspace equipment and software; one-on-one and group.
• Plan/display informational materials and pathfinders for patrons.
• Create a high level of customer service in a welcoming environment.
• Assist with maintenance and troubleshooting of makerspace equipment.
• Report issues and coordinate with the Maker Services Coordinator.
• Contribute to makerspace programs for teens and adults.
• Collect and report programming statistics for evaluation.
• Attend staff meetings and participate in professional development.
• Assist with outreach activities; other duties as assigned.

Skills

Core Technology Competencies

English communications

Word processing & spreadsheets

Makerspace mobility

Attention to detail

Analytical thinking

Independent work

Creative thinking

Public relations awareness

Professional demeanor

Public service under pressure

Travel for PD/outreach

Education

Bachelor’s in related field preferred

Maker equipment experience

Tools

Cricut

Laser engraver

Embroidery machine

Large format printer

Job description

Description

DEPARTMENT: Adult

SALARY CLASSIFICATION: Grade 5

STATUS: Part-time; irregular work shifts, daytime, evening or weekend hours; nonexempt [FLSA]

SUPERVISED BY: Maker Services Coordinator

SUPERVISES: N/A

JOB SUMMARY:

The Adult Maker Associate helps foster a creative and user-friendly environment in the makerspace under the direction of the Maker Services Coordinator in The Workshop. The Maker Associate provides support and training to library users on maker equipment, such as laser cutting, 3D printing, sewing, design, and other emerging technologies, and contributes to maker programming for high school students and adults.

PRIMARY DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

(percentages are approximate; duties are illustrative, not exclusive)

Provides services directly to the public in the Makerspace, including:

• Instructing and assisting library users in use of equipment and software; both one-on-one and group instruction
• Planning and/or preparing displays, pathfinders, or other informational materials
• Creating a user-friendly environment by creating a high level of customer service
• Assisting with maintenance and troubleshooting of equipment in the makerspace
• Communicating problems, recommendations, and planning to Maker Services Coordinator in timely and ongoing manner

These activities account for 70% of the work time.

Assists in programming and outreach activities, which may include:

• Planning, presenting, and assisting with makerspace programs for high school students and adults
• Assisting with maker-related outreach activities and events
• Recording and gathering input and statistics related to programming and outreach to assist with reporting and evaluation

These activities account for 25% of the work time.

Carries out other duties in support of the department and the Library, which may include:

• Attending staff meetings and participating in professional development activities
• Preparing for and participating in library committees
• Contributing articles for The Guide and creating content for Library website and social media
• Other duties as assigned

These activities account for 5% of the work time.

INTERACTION:

With the Adult Department Director, Adult Department staff, other Library departments and the public.

Requirements

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES REQUIRED:

• Demonstrates working knowledge of Core Technology Competencies, including automated library systems
• Demonstrates effective written and verbal communications skills, in English
• Demonstrates working knowledge of word processing and spreadsheet software
• Ability to perform work in a makerspace setting, with need for considerable mobility including lifting up to twenty pounds, bending, stooping, stretching, standing, and sitting at a variety of work benches and desks
• Demonstrates good listening skills
• Pays attention to detail
• Organizes work and thinks analytically
• Works well independently; is self-motivating
• Demonstrates creative thinking skills
• Is sensitive to public relations issues
• Projects a friendly, competent image to the public
• Manages calmly the pressures of public service in a busy environment
• Travels to professional development and outreach activities as necessary

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor’s in related field preferred, or demonstrated equivalent experience
• Successful work experience with maker equipment
• Ability to learn and instruct patrons on new and emerging technologies
• Working knowledge of two or more of the following technologies: Laser cutting and engraving, 3D printing, digital design software, fiber arts, or other Makerspace technologies

WILL BE TAUGHT:

Library related technology, policy and procedures, all Makerspace technologies, including but not limited to Cricut, laser engraver, embroidery machine, large format printer, sublimation process.

HOURS:

20 hours per week, 40 per pay period

SCHEDULE:

Tuesday: 3:00pm - 8:00pm

Wednesday: 3:00pm - 8:00pm

Thursday: 3:00pm - 8:00pm

Saturday: 11:00am - 4:00pm (alternating)