Makerspace Supervisor

City of Olathe; Olathe (KS); On-site; USD 36,000 - 40,000; Full time

Job summary

City of Olathe is seeking a Makerspace Supervisor to lead a team, coordinate programming, and manage daily operations in the Makerspace. This full-time, in-person role reports to the Makerspace Manager and supports community engagement with emerging technologies.

The position emphasizes teaching, troubleshooting, and proactive initiative, with a focus on customer service and collaborative programming across departments.

Qualifications

• Two years of relevant experience in a Makerspace or similar environment.
• Experience delivering programs, workshops, or one-on-one instruction on Makerspace equipment.
• Experience with CAD design backgrounds is preferred.
• Essential supervisory experience in a team-based environment and strong customer service orientation.

Responsibilities

• Supervise and develop a team of Makerspace staff, including scheduling and evaluations.
• Lead programming aligned with library goals and ensure accessibility and safety.
• Provide training and instruction on Makerspace tools and technologies to staff and customers.

Skills

Team leadership

Customer service

Communication

Time management

Analytical thinking

Problem solving

Training/instruction

Project management

Safety orientation

Education

High school diploma

Bachelor’s degree in STEAM/Entrepreneurship/Library Science

Tools

Laser cutters

3D printers

Sewing machines

Vinyl cutters

Studio A/V equipment

Job description

Employment Type

Full Time

Job Summary

Hiring range: $26.01 to $29.72 hourly, depending on qualifications.

Are you a creative leader with a passion for technology, innovation, and public service? The City of Olathe is looking for a Makerspace Supervisor to join our dynamic team! This role is pivotal in driving the success and growth of the makerspace. It offers a unique opportunity to lead a community of makers, foster new ideas, and make a lasting impact in the community. If you are interested in emerging technologies, enjoy teaching, troubleshooting and taking initiative we want to hear from you!

This is a full-time in-person position 40 hours weekly with rotational Saturday shifts. The position works closely with the Makerspace Manager and Specialists to offer this public service to the community.

For more details, review the full job details and requirements below.

The Makerspace Supervisor is a working supervisor role supporting the customer service and operational goals of the Makerspace. Working closely with the Makerspace Manager, this position helps supervise a team of Makerspace Specialists and support the day to day operations of the group through scheduling, training, and actively supporting programming.The supervisor also actively contributes to and implements Makerspace and Library programming.

Key Responsibilities

• Supervises and develops a team of Makerspace staff, including hiring, training, scheduling, and conducting performance evaluations for employees; shares the responsibility of being the person in charge (PIC) of the building through a rotating schedule that includes covering occasional evening and weekend shifts.

• Participates in and provides leadership in the creation of programming aligned with goals and best practices from the library programming plan; ensures intellectual freedom principles through programs and services; determines developmentally appropriate delivery mechanisms, whether in the library, online, or through community outreach; adheres to departmental and organizational standards, including brand guidelines; collaborates with internal stakeholders, including the library programming team, and maximizes collective resources for effective program delivery.

• Provides guidance and shares knowledge with Makerspace Specialists; offers one-on-one instruction and training to staff and customers of all ages on a variety of Makerspace tools and technologies; maintains updated product knowledge of equipment, materials, and software; develops and executes detailed maintenance schedules and manages inventory of supplies; collaborates with internal stakeholders, including City departments and community partners.

Qualifications

Experience:

A minimum of two years of relevant experience or experience working in a similar environment is required, which may include: laser cutters, 3D printers, sewing and embroidery machines, vinyl cutters, studio A/V equipment, and similar tools. Professional experience delivering programs,

workshops, or one-on-one instruction on Makerspace equipment with electronics/circuits, audio & visual, and CAD design backgrounds are preferred. One year of supervisory experience with the following is also essential: working in a team-based environment requiring work with a variety of people; organizational and time management skills; analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to collect, organize, and analyze information; interpersonal and communication skills, including verbal and written communication; safety orientation; and strong customer service orientation.

Education: A high school diploma or equivalent is required. A bachelor’s degree in any STEAM discipline, Entrepreneurship, Library Science, or a relevant field is preferred.

Licenses & Certifications: None

Language: Proficiency with verbal and written English language required. Additional proficiency with Spanish and American Sign Language preferred.

Environmental or Physical Demands: This position requires maneuvering equipment and materials which requires lifting of at least 60 pounds on a regular basis, bending, twisting, and reaching. Equipment in the work area may also require exposure to chemicals and fumes.