Makerspace Supervisor

Library Jobline; Olathe (KS); On-site; USD 45,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

City of Olathe seeks a Makerspace Supervisor to lead a team of Makerspace Specialists and support daily operations, scheduling, and programming. The role partners with the Makerspace Manager to advance community services and ensure a welcoming, well-equipped space for all patrons.

The position requires at least two years in a similar setting and one year of supervisory experience, with strong customer service, communication, and safety orientation essential for success.

Qualifications

• Minimum of two years of relevant experience working in a Makerspace or similar environment.
• One year of supervisory experience in a team-based setting is essential.

Responsibilities

• Supervises and develops a team of Makerspace staff, including hiring, training, scheduling, and conducting performance evaluations.
• Leads programming development and alignment with library goals and best practices, across in-library, online, and community outreach formats.
• Provides guidance and training on Makerspace tools and technologies; maintains product knowledge and equipment upkeep.
• Manages inventory and maintenance schedules; collaborates with City departments and partners.

Skills

Team supervision

Customer service

Teaching/workshops

Problem solving

Safety orientation

Education

High school diploma

Bachelor's degree in STEAM/Entrepreneurship/Library Science (preferred)

Tools

Laser cutters

3D printers

Sewing & embroidery machines

Vinyl cutters

Studio A/V equipment

CAD design

Job description

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.

Additional Info & Requirements

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.

The Community

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.

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.