Edison Public Library Makerspace Associate

Come and join a new and expanding team of Library professionals as we reinvent the Edison Public Library for the 21st century. Located in Central NJ, with a multicultural, multilingual, and diverse population of 110,000, the Library currently has three library
branches and mobile library services. We are rebuilding our Library from the bottom-up and the top-down to create an environment of learning, exploration, innovation and fun for the entire community. Our North Edison and Main Library Branches currently are
undergoing a transformation in lay-out and expansion. This is a Library system where anything is possible as we move towards a patron-centric view of programs and services. The Edison Public Library is committed to providing accessible and inclusive
services to our community. 

The Edison Public Library is seeking a creative and passionate makerspace library associate to join the team to assist in creating and shaping the future of our makerspace. This position works closely with the programming librarians and the Library Director to meet the diverse interests and needs of the Edison community. The successful candidate must be capable of working independently while also collaborating across departments and with external partners to deliver effective library services to all. This position reports directly to the Branch Manager and indirectly to the Library Director.

Job Summary
The Makerspace Library Associate fosters a creative, welcoming, and user-friendly environment in the Library's Makerspace. This position involves providing direct support, training, and assistance to patrons of all ages and skill levels in the use of various
crafts, machinery, and emerging technologies. The ideal candidate is an enthusiastic, service-oriented, and collaborative individual with a passion for hands-on learning and problem-solving.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Patron Assistance and Instruction: Greet and assist patrons in the Makerspace, providing one-on-one and small group instruction on the safe and effective use of equipment and software.
• Programming and Outreach: Plan, develop, and deliver engaging programs, workshops, and classes for diverse audiences (children, teens, and adults) focusing on STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Mathematics) content.
• Equipment Maintenance and Management: Operate, maintain, and troubleshoot Makerspace equipment, which may include 3D printers, laser cutters, vinyl cutters, and manage inventory of materials and consumables.
• Safety and Compliance: Ensure a safe, orderly, and clean environment by developing and enforcing safety protocols and library usage guidelines.
• Collaboration and Administration: Work collaboratively with library staff on system-wide programming and outreach events. Assist with general library duties, such as circulation, and maintain accurate records of Makerspace usage and activities.
• Professional Development: Stay current on emerging technologies and trends in library Makerspaces, recommending new tools, software, or programs for the library's continuous improvement.

Minimum Qualifications

• Education: A Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university is required.
• Experience:
       o Demonstrated experience in a public library, makerspace, classroom, or similar educational setting.
       o Experience working with the public and providing excellent customer service is essential.
       o Prior experience in training individuals or groups in crafts, machinery, or technology.
• Skills:
       o Proficiency with various technologies and creative tools, such as design software (e.g., Adobe Creative Cloud), 3D printing,             and other digital fabrication equipment.
       o Excellent communication (verbal and written), interpersonal, and problem-solving skills.
       o Ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative team in a fast-paced environment.
       o Flexibility to work a schedule that includes days, evenings, and weekends.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to lift and move items weighing up to 50 pounds occasionally and 20
  pounds regularly.
• Ability to stand, sit, bend, reach, and walk for extended periods.
• Dexterity to operate computers and various Makerspace equipment.

Benefits:

Full time: Vacation: One (1) day per month from date-of-hire until the new calendar
year, thereafter 15 days / year; Sick: one (1) day / month for the first year of
employment, thereafter 12 days / year; Personal: two (2) days / year prorated;
Floating Holiday two (2) days / year prorated

Part time: Vacation: 5 days (after six months of employment)/year; Sick: 2 hours/month
to completion of first year (6 days/year, not to exceed 24 hours after completion of
first of service); Personal: 13 hours/year prorated; Floating Holiday: 2 days/year
prorated

Pension eligible: DCRP (PERS when eligible); Union eligible: Yes

Application Instructions:

To apply, please submit:

• A cover letter addressing your qualifications and interest in the role
• A current resume
• Contact information for three professional references
• Library Employment Application 
• Only candidates under consideration will be contacted.
• The selected candidate will be required to successfully pass a six month probationary period.
• Pre-employment background checks and drug tests are required for Edison Public Library employees.
   

The Library will only consider candidates who submit all required paperwork.

The Edison Public Library operates under NJDOP and EOE Guidelines. 

As a New Jersey First Act Employer, new employees must establish a primary residence in New Jersey within one year unless an exemption applies.

Submit materials to: hr [at] edisonpubliclibrary.org (hr[at]edisonpubliclibrary[dot]org)
Application Deadline: Open until filled.
Start Date: As soon as possible or mutually agreed upon