Part Time STEM Makerspace Youth Development Instructor; YDI

Summary

The Part Time STEM YDI at Boys & Girls Clubs of the Northern Indiana Corridor (BGCNIC) plays a pivotal role in fostering a passion for STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) among children and youth. This position is responsible for driving our pickup truck hauling the RV that has been retrofitted to a STEM Makerspace lab. After driving the RV to one of our sites, the STEM Makerspace YDI will then coordinate and facilitate engaging hands‑on STEM activities and projects within the makerspace environment.

The STEM Makerspace YDI collaborates with our other Makerspace STEM YDI, Makerspace Program Director, community partners, and Club staff to create a dynamic and inclusive learning experience that promotes creativity, critical thinking, and problem‑solving skills. The ideal candidate has a strong STEM background, experience working with children, and a passion for inspiring young minds in STEM fields.

BGCNIC serves 3,000 children ages five to 18 at 30+ sites across northern Indiana through summer and before and after‑care programming, with a strong focus on social and emotional learning, college and workforce readiness, and academic enrichment to ensure every child has a chance to meet his or her potential.

• Ability to safely drive our pickup truck hauling which hauls our RV Makerspace to sites based on a predetermined schedule preferred.
• Collaborate with Makerspace YDI, Makerspace Program Director, community partners, and Club staff to develop and coordinate engaging STEM activities and projects within the makerspace, particularly the Future Lab Makerspace at the Portage School of Leaders.
• Facilitate hands‑on STEM lessons and projects aligned with age‑appropriate curriculum goals, promoting creativity, critical thinking, and problem‑solving skills.
• Coordinate schedules and logistics for makerspace activities, ensuring the availability of necessary materials, resources, and volunteer support.
• Create a welcoming and inclusive environment within the makerspace, where all feel empowered to explore and experiment with STEM concepts and technologies.
• Facilitate and oversee Club members during makerspace activities, providing guidance, support, and encouragement to promote their learning and engagement.
• Adapt STEM activities and projects to meet the diverse learning needs and skill levels of Club members.
• Utilize a variety of tools, technologies, and materials within the makerspace, fostering creativity and innovation among Club members.
• Monitor and assess the progress and engagement of Club members during makerspace activities, providing individualized support and guidance as needed.
• Maintain a safe and organized makerspace environment, adhering to safety protocols and procedures.
• Develop and maintain an inventory of makerspace materials, tools, and resources, ensuring their proper usage, maintenance, and storage. Taking note of any damage or maintenance issues.
• Cultivate positive relationships with members and parents/guardians, providing regular updates on makerspace activities and encouraging their involvement in supporting STEM learning at home.
• Collaborate with Club staff to recognize and celebrate Club members’ achievements and progress in STEM.
• Participate in professional development opportunities, meetings, and workshops to expand knowledge and skills in STEM education and makerspace management.
• Maintain accurate records of makerspace activities, participant attendance, and project outcomes. Prepare reports as needed to track program effectiveness and impact.
• Comply with all safety and security procedures to ensure a safe and secure environment for Club members.
• Model all BGCNIC and school corporation policies and procedures.
• Communicate concerns to appropriate people, such as school principals and BGCNIC leadership and assist with corrective action plans for any person or site not meeting BGCNIC standards.
• Other duties as assigned.

• Valid driver’s license and comfortable driving a pickup truck which hauls an RV.
• Education background: A bachelor’s degree in a STEM‑related field such as science, technology, engineering, or mathematics is highly preferred.
• T…