Makerspace Instructor (Part-Time)

James Madison University; Harrisonburg (VA); On-site; USD 16,531 - 24,796; Part time

Job summary

James Madison University’s Libraries seeks a part-time Makerspace Instructor to lead and support usage of the Makerspace at two library locations. The role involves providing technical assistance, teaching workshops, and maintaining equipment.

This position averages 29 hours per week and is based in Harrisonburg, VA. The successful candidate will have strong customer service skills, proficiency with technology, and the ability to work independently or as part of a team, including evenings and

Qualifications

• Proven customer service in a professional setting.
• Strong computer skills and ability to learn new technologies quickly.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Detail-oriented with ability to interpret policies.
• Commitment to accessible and welcoming environments.
• Willingness to work days, evenings, weekends at two locations.

Responsibilities

• Provide technical advice and assistance on services and equipment to faculty, staff, and students to support their multimedia and makerspace projects.
• Teach workshops and participate in events for the JMU community and classes.
• Ensure proper equipment use by patrons and staff while following safety guidelines.
• Maintain and integrate makerspace equipment and systems (3D printing, laser cutting, textiles, etc.).
• Attend training to proactively learn software and hardware skills.
• Support Libraries and Learning Innovations and Design team on other duties.

Skills

Customer service

Technical troubleshooting

Independent and team work

Attention to detail

Inclusive environments

Flexible schedule

Job description

Makerspace Instructor (Part-Time)

James Madison University’s Libraries seeks an instructor to lead and support usage of the Makerspace at two library locations. The role involves providing technical assistance, teaching workshops, and maintaining equipment. This part‑time position averages 29 hours per week.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Provide technical advice and assistance on services and equipment to faculty, staff, and students to support their multimedia and makerspace projects.
• Teach workshops and actively participate in events supporting the JMU community and class needs.
• Provide guidance and support to effectively apply policies and follow safety guidelines to ensure proper equipment use by patrons and employees.
• Maintain and integrate a variety of makerspace equipment and systems, including 3D printing, laser cutting, vinyl printing, textiles, and other emerging technologies.
• Attend training and other professional development opportunities to proactively learn new software and hardware skills.
• Assist Libraries and Learning Innovations and Design team with other duties and projects assigned.

The successful candidate will demonstrate a willingness to be flexible depending on the university and library calendars. Hours may not be available when the university is closed or on breaks.

Qualifications

Required

• Evidence of providing excellent customer service to a broad constituency in a professional and positive manner.
• Strong proficiency with computers and technology that includes an ability to quickly learn new technologies and troubleshoot technical issues.
• Ability to work independently and as a member of a team in a dynamic, collegial, and collaborative environment.
• Ability to handle multiple tasks simultaneously; manage and pay strict attention to detail; and effectively interpret and apply policies.
• Demonstrated commitment to building environments that are accessible and welcoming.
• Willingness to work days, evenings, and weekends across two library locations.

Additional Considerations

• Experience with a variety of innovative technologies including 3D printing/modeling, Adobe Creative Cloud suite, and diverse types of media production software and equipment.
• Experience teaching or training others individually or in a group setting.
• Ability to use sound judgement to manage problems and emergencies that could arise.

Conditions of Employment

Employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a criminal background check. The position is a part‑time wage position working up to an average of 29 hours per week over the course of a calendar year with no benefits. After accepting employment, new hires must complete an I‑9 form and complete the E‑Verify process to confirm identity and work authorization.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

James Madison University is committed to creating and supporting a diverse and inclusive work and educational community that is free of all forms of discrimination. This institution does not tolerate discrimination or harassment on the basis of age, color, disability, gender identity or expression, genetic information, national origin, parental status, political affiliation, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation or veteran status. We promote access, inclusion and diversity for all students, faculty, staff, constituents and programs, believing that these qualities are foundational components of an outstanding education in keeping with our mission. The university is interested in candidates whose experience and qualifications support an ongoing commitment to this core quality. Anyone having questions concerning discrimination should contact the Office for Equal Opportunity: (540) 568‑6991.

Reasonable Accommodation

If you are an individual with a disability and need assistance searching or applying for jobs please contact us at (540) 568‑3597 or [e-mail]. You may also visit the JMU Human Resource Office, located at 752 Ott Street, Harrisonburg, VA 22807 and we will be happy to assist you.