Makerspace Team Lead 19 Hour

La Porte County Public Library; La Porte, Northern (IN, KY); Hybrid; USD 25,000 - 36,000; Part time

Job summary

La Porte County Public Library is seeking a Makerspace Team Lead to manage the LPCPL Exchange operations and support the Learning Services Team. You will supervise staff and volunteers, assist customers with devices and makerspace equipment, and help plan library classes and events.

You will maintain equipment readiness, inventory toolkits, and ensure safety compliance while collaborating with staff across the library to deliver engaging maker programs.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent and specialized training applicable to position.
• Public service orientation and commitment to excellent customer service.
• One year of experience with makerspaces preferred.
• Ability to use and troubleshoot maker equipment (3D printers, tools, laser cutter, sewing machine, CNC).
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills to convey processes clearly.

Responsibilities

• Supervise daily work of staff, volunteers and interns.
• Provide first point of contact for customers and assist with in‑person requests.
• Assist customers with use of makerspace equipment and digital resources.
• Lead planning and promotion of library classes, events, and initiatives.
• Maintain and inventory maker equipment and supply kits.

Skills

Public service orientation

Communication skills

Problem solving

Team leadership

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Specialized training applicable to position

Tools

3D printers

Vinyl cutters

Laser cutter/engraver

Sewing machine

Desktop CNC

Hand tools

Job description

Description

JOB TITLE: Makerspace Team Lead

CLASS/GRADE: Clerical III

POSITION TYPE: Hourly

REPORTS TO: Makerspace Supervisor

RESPONSIBILITY

Supports the educational and maker initiatives of LPCPL as part of the Learning Services Team with a focus on day-to-day operation of the maker and collaboration space known as the LPCPL Exchange.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Assign and supervise daily work of support staff, volunteers, and interns.
• Provide first point of contact for customers and in person requests for assistance.
• Provide hands‑on customer service, research assistance, answer customer questions, help customers find library materials and services, assist customers with use of computers, personal devices and makerspace equipment.
• Use the library’s website to locate information, resources, and services, and assist customers in navigating digital content, account features, and online tools.
• Operate a point‑of‑sale system and cash handling, counts, collects, and records cash and credit transactions; completes paperwork as required.
• Work in collaboration with staff to plan, conduct, and promote, library classes, events, and initiatives.
• Work with customers and staff using a problem‑solving mindset with demonstrated ability to overcome design challenges involving critical thinking, decision‑making, creativity, and information processing.
• Lead projects as assigned.
• Maintain customer accounts.
• Perform routine basic maintenance and safety and mechanical inspections of maker equipment.
• Manage reservations for use of spaces and equipment.
• Perform duties required for set up, clean up, and resupply for classes and events.
• Inventory and maintain the various toolkits and workstations in the makerspace.
• Provide services as described above at other Library locations as needed.
• Perform light cleaning and janitorial tasks. Monitor and report more complex issues with cleaning, mechanical systems, and building issues.
• Apply Library policies consistently with all customers, staff, and vendors.

Requirements

REQUIREMENTS

• High school diploma or equivalent and specialized training applicable to position.
• Public service orientation and commitment to excellent and genuine customer service.
• One year of experience with makerspaces or similar facilities preferred.
• Required to complete training on maker and STEAM equipment.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills to communicate processes clearly, explain terms, concepts and technology and assign responsibility and provide feedback.
• Ability to use and troubleshoot equipment issues such as 3D printers, hand and stationary tools, vinyl cutters, sewing machine, laser cutter/engraver, and desktop CNC.
• Proficiency with computers, the internet, Microsoft Office, email, library specific software and standard office equipment. Ability to learn new technologies.
• Valid Indiana driver’s license.
• Take charge in emergency situations.

TRAINING AND EXPERIENCE

• Knowledge of library materials and services appropriate for a variety of customers.
• Understand, endorse, and communicate LPCPL’s policies and procedures.
• Demonstrate professionalism, courtesy, and respect when interacting with customers and coworkers.
• Complete assigned projects. Make decisions and work independently and interpedently.
• Solve problems in a professional manner with customers, co‑workers and Leadership.
• Manage confidentiality of customer records and sensitive information.
• Read, listen, comprehend, and follow verbal and written instructions.
• Attend conferences, workshops and training sessions as part of on‑going professional development.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

• Frequently move about the makerspace to perform tasks; includes walking, standing, sitting, bending, reaching, and kneeling.
• Regularly lift and carry library materials, supplies, and boxes up to 25 lbs; regularly push carts and bins weighing up to 100 lbs.
• Manual dexterity for typing, handling materials, and operating makerspace and office equipment, computers, and carts.
• Sufficient vision to read print and digital materials, including close, distance, color, and peripheral vision, and depth perception.
• Clearly listen and communicate with staff in a timely manner, in person, by phone, and in writing.
• Assist with room setup and takedown, including moving tables and chairs as needed.
• Adhere to safety standards and wears Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): gloves, safety glasses, face shield, hearing protection, masks, & aprons.
• Exposure to chemicals used in makerspace, exhaust fumes, odors, and dust particles.
• Exposure to noise and vibration levels from makerspace equipment.
• Must be able to respond to alarms, sirens, and overhead pages promptly.
• Valid driver’s license and ability to safely operate library vehicles.
• Travel as required for meetings, events, training and conferences.