YOUTH PROGRAM MAKER'S LAB SPECIALIST (Part-Time)

Chicago Youth Centers; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 24,796 - 27,552; Part time

Job summary

Chicago Youth Centers is seeking a Maker’s Lab Specialist at the Calumet Heights Center to help youth explore technology. You will assist students with the lab's computers and equipment, manage inventory, and staff the Maker Space.

This part-time, non-exempt role involves mentoring youth, coordinating workshops, and promoting maker activities within CYC programs at 9207 S. Phillips Ave. Hours are 1:30 p.m.–6:30 p.m., Monday–Friday. Compensation is $18–$20 per hour with no benefits provided.

Qualifications

• Associate’s degree in a relevant field with three years of experience.
• Bachelor’s degree is a plus.
• Experience with Maker Space computer technology and digital media.
• Ability to maintain and troubleshoot digital fabrication equipment.
• Experience teaching in youth or education settings.
• Knowledge of 3D printers, laser cutters, CNC routers.
• Bilingual language abilities are a plus.

Responsibilities

• Create a supportive environment that fosters youth skill development.
• Prepare Maker Space setup, cleanup, and inventory.
• Staff Maker Space and mentor youth during workshops and check out equipment.
• Operate and inventory equipment like computers, printers, 3D printers, vinyl cutters.
• Instruct classes on technology, the maker movement, or STEAM.
• Provide opportunities for youth to showcase work.
• Identify youth with STEAM passion and refer program opportunities.
• Collaborate with staff to promote workshops and events.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Skills

MakerSpace technology

3D printing

Laser cutting

CNC routing

STEM education

Youth mentorship

Bilingual

Education

Associate’s degree in a relevant field

Bachelor’s degree is a plus

Three years of experience

Tools

3D printers

Vinyl cutters

Laser cutters

CNC routers

Digital media software

Job description

Maker’s Lab Specialist

Company: Chicago Youth Centers (CYC)

Website: chicagoyouthcenters.org

Compensation: $18 - $20 per hour

Classification: Part Time; Non-Exempt

Location: CYC Calumet Heights Center, 9207 S. Phillips Ave

Schedule: 1:30 p.m. – 6:30 p.m.; Monday – Friday (schedule varies depending on program needs)

Purpose

The Maker’s Lab Specialists assist elementary, middle, and high school youth in using the lab’s computers, resources, and other technology. They handle the care, inventory, and checkout of equipment and act as a desk attendant.

Responsibilities

• Create and maintain a supportive environment that is conducive to skill development and adolescent development based on youth interests and peer and intergenerational collaboration
• Prepare Maker Space including setup, cleanup, and inventory of CYC equipment
• Staff the Maker Space to engage with youth, recruit and promote workshops and CYC happenings, act as a mentor and guide, and check out equipment
• Operate and inventory a variety of site‑specific equipment including desktop and laptop computers, printers, cameras, 3D printers, and vinyl cutters
• Instruct/assist in the instruction of classes on a variety of technology‑related subjects including digital media, the maker movement, or STEAM
• Provide participants with regular opportunities to showcase work through CYC and other opportunities and venues
• Assure that CYC youth participants understand options and career paths in STEAM‑related fields
• Identify and encourage CYC youth that show passion for STEAM, offering or referring special program opportunities
• Create opportunities for youth to collaborate creatively and showcase their success locally, nationally and globally
• Other duties as assigned

Values

• ATTITUDE MATTERS – Positivity begins with me. Enthusiasm, optimism, and kindness are central, even in challenging moments.
• CARE FOR REAL – Showing genuine care for children, families, co‑workers, and community members; acting respectfully and upliftingly.
• OWN IT – Taking responsibility for tasks, proactively addressing needs, and committing to consistent, dependable performance.
• PUSH FORWARD – Determination and progressiveness in thought and action; tackling problems, finding innovative solutions, and remaining open to new ideas.

Requirements

• Associate’s degree in a relevant field with three years of experience; Bachelor’s Degree is a plus.
• Job experience and/or coursework in computer technology, digital media or multimedia, a STEAM discipline, hardware or software applications and troubleshooting, internet research, teaching or training.
• Proven knowledge of, and ability to use the technology associated with the Maker Space program.
• Skills with technology, art, craft, engineering, music, science, green design, and other Maker themes or a strong curiosity and commitment to developing such skills quickly.
• Knowledge in maintaining digital fabrication equipment including 3D printers, laser cutters, CNC routers, etc.
• Experience teaching in an educational or youth development setting; specifically through project based learning.
• Bilingual language abilities are a plus.

Benefits

This role is not benefits eligible.

Equal Opportunity Statement

Chicago Youth Centers is proud to be an equal opportunity employer and a drug‑free workplace. We are committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of race, color, ancestry, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, citizenship, marital status, disability, gender identity or veteran status. Chicago Youth Centers will provide reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities.

Disclaimer

***This job description is not intended to represent a complete list of all duties and responsibilities. There may be unplanned activities and other duties assigned.***