Library Associate - STEAM

Library Associate - STEAM, Cambridge Public Library (Cambridge) ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Under the general supervision of Manager of the Hive and Manager of Library STEAM Programs, provides exceptional service in The Hive makerspace and other areas as needed and assists patrons with their use of a range of technologies.
• Responsible for overseeing The Hive during scheduled shifts.
• Maintains the orderly function of The Hive, including communicating with the Manager of the Hive, Manager of Library STEAM Programs, Manager of Innovation & Technology and other IT staff, enforcing the policies of the space and the library, and troubleshooting technical issues.
• Introduces patrons to the space; leads safety orientation and trainings on individual equipment; responds to inquiries about use of the space and technologies in it.
• Provides technical support and strategies to implement project design/fabricate prototypes to a wide variety of users inside The Hive and in other locations as required.
• Provides training, orientations, logistical, and technical support to staff and patrons.
• Provides instructions and assistance with use of the various technologies in the space including but not limited to 3D printers, laser cutters, vinyl cutters, routers, sewing machines, Augmented and Virtual Reality equipment, and recording equipment.
• In partnership with the Hive Manager and Manager of Library STEAM Programs, develops, prepares, and presents programs and learning opportunities.
• Assists patrons in booking equipment and/or studios; checks patrons in for studio or equipment bookings and sets up/tears down between bookings.
• Performs routine maintenance on Hive equipment.
• Inventories and tracks equipment and identifies and reports any equipment needing repair or replacement.
• Works across Library and City locations, as well as at various community spaces and events as needed.
• Attends meetings and professional development opportunities to stay abreast of technological changes and updates.
• Assists with implementing and maintaining patron badging system.
• Creates and maintains documentation in the department knowledge base.
• Provides excellent customer service both internally and externally and performs job responsibilities in a professional manner.
• Performs other related duties and responsibilities as assigned for the good of the department and library.

• A Bachelor's degree or coursework beyond high school, especially in an area of STEAM or maker technologies.
• Commitment to doing all work through a lens of diversity, equity, inclusion, and anti-racism.

• Knowledge of STEAM related equipment, software, and best practices.
• Ability to utilize a variety of makerspace equipment and technologies, including but not limited to 3D technologies, virtual and augmented reality technologies, laser cutters, soldering equipment, sewing machines, digitization equipment, and audio/video recording equipment.
• Comfort with computers and technology, including knowledge of and willingness to learn emerging technologies.
• Ability to communicate effectively, patiently and courteously with supervisors, library staff, and the public, including communicating technical information to audiences of differing levels of experience.
• Ability to provide exceptional customer service in a fast-paced environment involving varied technologies and ability to assist patrons at different skill levels.
• Ability to effectively troubleshoot and problem solve a variety of hardware and software problems, including software and hardware that may be initially unfamiliar.
• Strong commitment to inclusive, responsive and innovative service and a desire to master new technologies.
• Excellent problem-solving skills; ability to quickly grasp new ideas and concepts.
• Punctuality and dependability.
• Time management skills, including the ability to set and adjust priorities in order to meet assignment deadlines.
• Must be able to pay close attention to details and concentrate on work.
• Ability to handle multiple activities or interruptions at once and to stay calm during stressful situations.
• Ability to follow oral and written instructions accurately and thoroughly.
• Adaptability and dependability to collaborate well within a team environment.
• Flexibility to work during special events or outreach opportunities.
• Friendliness, tact, patience, maturity, and strong interpersonal skills.

• Prior employment relevant to STEAM or education which indicates an ability to successfully perform the duties of the job.
• Previous use of a variety of makerspace equipment and technologies, including 3D printing, laser cutting, vinyl cutting, sewing, audio and video recording, and the use of basic hand tools in a lab or educational setting is highly desirable.
• Experience providing instruction in one-on-one and group learning environments.
• In exceptional instances, specialized education, training and/or experience may be substituted for part of or all of the…