Innovation Space Manager

Join an award winning Library! The Schaumburg Township District Library has an onsite fulltime Innovation Space Manager position open. Are you passionate about fostering creativity collaboration and innovation within a library setting We are seeking a dynamic and enthusiastic candidate to help design open and lead our cuttingedge Innovation Space. This role offers a unique opportunity to shape the future of library services and engage the community in exciting new ways.
Hours are as follows and requires flexibility.

37.5 average hours per week with days nights and weekends as needed.

The schedule is based on the needs of the library and could change if and when needed. The salary range for this position is $57155 $71468; based on skills and qualifications.

Position Summary:

Under the supervision of the Reference Services Department Director the Innovation Hub Manager at Schaumburg Township District Library youll play a pivotal role in shaping a dynamic and inclusive creative community. We seek a passionate collaborative and innovative individual to lead our maker space initiatives. In this role youll oversee daytoday operations using instructional technology maker equipment and computerbased programming; provide training and support to patrons and staff alike; curate programs; and ensure the smooth functioning of equipment through budgeting maintenance and troubleshooting. The Innovation Hub Manager must also strongly advocate for using continued innovative and creative technologies and equipment to support the Library’s strategic initiatives of building connections future readiness and being agile.

Requirements for All Employees:

1. Ability to be a teamplayer and work pleasantly and effectively with all patrons staff supervisors and others.
2. Ability to learn various job functions perform them correctly and understand the necessity in overall library operations.
3. Ability to independently function efficiently in a changing and varied environment with frequent interruptions.
4. Ability to exercise good judgment and focus on details.
5. Ability to follow all library policies and procedures.
6. Demonstrates commitment to incorporating principles of Diversity Equity and Inclusion into everyday work.

Requirements & Skills for the Position:

• Technical Proficiency: A strong understanding of Maker tools and technologies including 3D printers laser cutters CNC machines electronics programming languages (e.g. Arduino Raspberry Pi) and other relevant equipment.

• ProblemSolving: The ability to troubleshoot technical issues with equipment and software diagnose problems and implement solutions in a timely manner to minimize downtime and ensure a positive experience for patrons.

• Creativity and Innovation: A creative mindset and a passion for exploring new ideas projects and technologies coupled with the ability to inspire and motivate others to experiment and innovate.

• Communication Skills: Excellent verbal and written communication skills with the ability to effectively convey complex technical concepts to patrons of all ages and skill levels as well as collaborate with colleagues and community partners.

• Teaching and Training: Experience in providing handson training and instruction to patrons on how to use Maker tools and equipment safely and effectively as well as developing educational programs and workshops that promote STEAM (Science Technology Engineering Arts and Mathematics) learning.

• Project Management: Strong organizational and time management skills with the ability to plan coordinate and execute Makerspace activities events and projects while managing resources and staying within budgetary constraints.

• Customer Service: A customercentric approach to serving patrons focusing on creating a welcoming and inclusive environment where individuals feel supported and encouraged to explore their interests and pursue their creative projects.

• Adaptability: Flexibility and adaptability to changing priorities emerging technologies and evolving needs of the Maker community coupled with a willingness to learn and embrace new challenges.

• Community Engagement: The ability to engage with the local community build relationships with stakeholders and promote activities and initiatives through various channels including social media outreach events and partnerships.

• Passion for Lifelong Learning: A genuine passion for lifelong learning and a commitment to staying informed about emerging trends best practices and opportunities for innovation in Maker culture and STEAM education.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Innovation Hub Management: Manage all aspects of a maker space including equipment maintenance inventory management and space utilization while adhering to budgetary constraints. Develop and maintain a budget; reports for administration and Library Board; statistics; and supply inventory.
• Training and Support: Provide personalized training and assistance to patrons on various tools and technologies available in the Makerspace troubleshooting issues as they arise. Additionally seek out and organize training opportunities for staff to stay informed and aware of best practices. Interview select train and evaluate any new employees. Provide mentorship and guidance around any problems. Conduct staff meetings as needed and attend staff meetings and participate in committee work.
• Program Development: Collaborate with library staff and community partners to develop engaging programs workshops and events that promote Maker culture and STEAM education considering budgetary implications.
• Community Engagement: Cultivate a welcoming and inclusive environment where patrons of all ages and skill levels feel empowered to explore their interests and pursue their creative projects.
• Technology Integration: Stay informed about emerging technologies and trends in Maker culture exploring opportunities to integrate new tools and resources into the Innovation Hub.
• Budgeting: Develop and manage the Innovation Space budget ensuring that expenditures align with organizational goals and priorities and seek costeffective solutions for equipment maintenance and upgrades.
• Troubleshooting: Diagnose and troubleshoot technical issues with Makerspace equipment coordinating repairs or replacements as needed to minimize downtime and ensure a positive experience for patrons.
• Outreach and Promotion: Promote Makerspace activities and events through various channels including social media newsletters and community outreach initiatives maximizing resources and reach.
• Evaluation and Assessment: Collect feedback from patrons and stakeholders to assess the effectiveness of Makerspace programs and services leveraging datadriven insights to improve and innovate continuously.

• Other Duties: This position description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this position. Duties responsibilities and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

Education and/or experience:

• Required Bachelor’s degree in science education instructional technology educational technology computer science and/or a related degree or a combination of postsecondary education and relevant work experience required.
• 4 years supervisory experience preferred.
• Knowledge of basic library organization preferred
• Experience within Maker community

The deadline to apply for the job posting is: 06/14/2024

Schaumburg Township District Library is an Equal Opportunity Employer