Makerspace Project Assistant

About the Job

This position is in-person only; remote work is not available. Hours/Availability: 5 hours on MWF and 7 hours T-Th; schedule may change on a weekly basis.
Rate of Pay: $18–$20 per hour.

Position Summary
This role supports daily operations, instructional programming, and ongoing development of the Makerspace in the Health Sciences Libraries, with secondary coverage in the Virtual Reality Studio. It collaborates with the Makerspace Lab Manager, Engagement, Outreach, and Community Partnerships staff, and serves users—including undergraduate and graduate students, faculty, staff, and community partners.

• Daily Operations & Staffing (40%)
  • Staff the Makerspace in the Health Sciences Library during scheduled shifts, providing front‑line support to patrons.
  • Assist patrons with project planning, tool use, software workflows, and troubleshooting across a range of experience levels.
  • Support opening/closing procedures, monitor space usage, maintain cleanliness and organization, and document incidents.
  • Assist with inventory management of makerspace tools, materials, and consumable supplies.
  • Provide coverage for scheduled shifts and assist with operational needs in the Virtual Reality Studio as needed.
• Instruction & Workshops (40%)
  • Teach beginner and intermediate workshops using established makerspace curriculum, including hands‑on instruction with 3D printers, laser cutters, CNC mills, 2D vector design tools, and 3D CAD software.
  • Serve as an instructional resource during workshops and open hours, supporting patrons through demonstrations, guided instruction, and individualized assistance.
  • Contribute to the refinement, documentation, and updating of makerspace curriculum and instructional materials in collaboration with library staff.
  • Support outreach, programming, and instructional initiatives that serve undergraduate students, graduate students, faculty, and staff across the University.
• Equipment & Technical Support (20%)
  • Assist with routine maintenance, calibration, diagnostics, and repair of makerspace equipment.
  • Monitor equipment condition and usage, document technical issues, and coordinate with staff on repairs, maintenance schedules, and equipment improvements.
  • Support safe operation of equipment through adherence to established procedures and reporting of safety concerns.

Required

• Demonstrated experience working in a makerspace, fabrication lab, design studio, or comparable technical learning environment.
• Demonstrated experience providing hands‑on support or instruction with digital fabrication tools and equipment.
• Experience assisting users with projects, troubleshooting technical issues, and explaining complex concepts to individuals with varying levels of experience.
• Strong problem‑solving, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work independently, make sound decisions in a shared technical environment, and collaborate effectively as part of a team.
• Ability to follow established safety procedures and operational guidelines in a workshop or lab setting.
• Minimum GED or high school diploma.

Preferred

• Experience teaching or leading workshops, trainings, or instructional sessions using established curriculum.
• Experience with 2D vector design software and 3D CAD design software commonly used in makerspace environments.
• Experience with equipment maintenance, calibration, and repair in a makerspace or lab setting.
• Experience supporting interdisciplinary users, including undergraduate students, graduate students, faculty, and staff.
• Familiarity with library‑based makerspaces or academic support environments.
• Project‑based experience contributing to space planning, workflow improvements, or program development.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to frequently move or lift items weighing up to 40 pounds.
• Ability to move equipment, materials, and carts on wheels weighing up to 100 pounds.
• Ability to stand for extended periods and perform hands‑on work in a workshop environment.

Pay Range: $18.00 – $20.00, depending on education/qualifications/experience. Retirement plan options are available for Civil Service, Faculty, Labor‑Represented, Professional & Administrative, and…