Library - FT Makerspace and Digital Media Lab Specialist

The Makerspace and Digital Media Lab Specialist performs responsible staffing of a public service desk and technical support in the Jefferson-Madison Regional Library (JMRL) Central Library’s Makerspace and Digital Media Lab. Performs work under the general supervision of the Supervisory Technology Services Librarian. 

Library Makerspaces foster personal growth and life-long learning for all by connecting people with ideas, information, and each other. These Makerspaces are self-directed learning and working spaces that encourage creativity, experimentation, and learning by providing access to new technologies, skill building, equipment, computer hardware and software, information, and supplies intended to support individual projects.

To read more about this position and the Jefferson-Madison Regional Library, please visit https://jmrl.org/

The preferred hiring amount for this position is $17.27 an hour ($35,921.60 Annually). Starting offer is based on applicable education, experience, and internal equity. This full-time, non-exempt position offers a comprehensive benefits package, including 13 paid holidays plus one floating holiday, vacation and sick leave, health insurance with employer contribution, employer-paid life insurance, gym membership reimbursement, tuition assistance, and professional development opportunities. This position is also eligible for the following benefits:

• Defined Contribution 401a Plan: Employer makes fixed contributions to an individual account, which are invested, and returns are credited to the account. The account balance is used to provide retirement benefits. Vesting occurs at 33% after one year, 67% after two years, and 100% after three years of service. No salary contribution is required.
• Voluntary 457 Deferred Compensation Plan

The City of Charlottesville manages its own retirement system and does not participate in VRS; however, a Portability Agreement is available for eligible employees. For additional details, please refer to the “Benefits” tab within this posting or visit the City’s Employee Benefits webpage.To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. Reasonable accommodations will be considered to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. The essential functions of the job are not limited to those listed in the job description.  The JMRL retains the discretion to add to or change the duties of the position at any time.

• Provides public service in the makerspace and digital media lab; assists patrons on library computers, printers, and makerspace lab equipment. Supports patrons of a wide range of abilities in realizing a wide variety of projects and technology-based tasks.
• Provides friendly and helpful representation of the library through regular patron interactions including:
  • welcoming new patrons and giving them tours of our space
  • talking with patrons about projects they would like to make
  • helping patrons safely use tools
  • assisting patrons at public computers
  • connecting patrons to learning resources
• Helps patrons of various skill levels make the most of the lab resources, which may include:
  • 3D printing and scanning
  • computer-controlled cutting
  • laser cutting and engraving
  • sewing machines
  • audio, video, and sound editing
  • button making
  • emerging technologies and resources relevant to the space.
• Staffs a public service desk. Answers questions from lab patrons and telephone inquiries. May be asked to assist at other library service desks.
• Addresses digital literacy gaps with patrons to help remove access barriers.
• Collaborates with other Makerspace and Media Lab staff in planning and delivering special programs for all ages that make use of Lab resources and equipment.
• Troubleshoots minor problems with hardware and software.
• Reports on facility and equipment maintenance and repair needs.
• Monitors behavior of patrons and takes appropriate action, escalating to supervisor when appropriate.
• Informs patrons of library policies and procedures.
• Responsible for appropriate use and maintenance of JMRL equipment, tools and other resources, including work time.
• Regular and reliable attendance.

Other Duties

• Performs additional duties to support operational requirements as apparent or assigned.

Education and Experience: Candidates may qualify by demonstrating the required knowledge and skills outlined for the job through experience(s) other than formal education such as college.

• Bachelor’s degree.

• Associate’s degree AND 2 years of related experience.

• High School diploma or GED AND 4 years of related experience.

• An equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered in lieu of the specific requirements listed above.

Certifications/Licenses/Other Requirements:

• Required to successfully pass a pre-employment background check.

Knowledge, Skills, Abilities and Other Characteristics
Job Knowledge

• Knowledge of and proficiency in use of various computer platforms and software, internet, and basic search skills.
• Knowledge of hardware and software troubleshooting with in-house devices.
• Knowledge of library policies and procedures.

Reading

• Intermediate: Ability to read and understand written materials such as newspapers, magazines, journals, multi-step instruction manuals, and reference materials.

Writing

• Basic: Ability to write simple letters, paragraphs and sentences containing subject, verb, and object, and/or series of numbers, names, and addresses.

Math

• Basic: ability to measure and routine addition and subtraction.

Communication Skills

• Intermediate: Establishes and maintains effective working relationships with co-workers and customers. Requires good telephone etiquette. Provide standard information to and interact with others outside direct reporting relationships on procedures or general policies. Interaction requires recognizing different points of view to ensure understanding and appropriate response.
• As a representative of the JMRL public library, expected to be polite and professional at all times, de-escalate conflicts where necessary, and help foster a welcoming and inclusive environment for all members of our community.

Independence and Decision-Making

• Requires General Direction: Normally performs the job by following general instructions or established standard operating procedures and/or policies.  There is some discretion when making decisions among a few easily identifiable choices of the appropriate procedure or policy to apply to duties.  Performance is reviewed frequently.

Technical Skills

• Skilled: Comprehensive, practical knowledge of a technical field with use of analytical judgment and decision-making abilities appropriate to the assigned and apparent job responsibilities. Intermediate skill in Microsoft Office applications and/or departmental software.

Fiscal Responsibilities

• No budgetary/fiscal responsibilities.

Supervisory Responsibilities

• No responsibility for direction or supervision of others.

Other Characteristics

• Strong public services orientation.
• Frequent change of tasks.
• Working closely with others as part of a team.
• Takes responsibility for finding answers to questions and responding appropriately.
• Constant interruptions and requests for service 
• May require dealing with angry, frustrated and/or upset individuals.

Physical Demands:

• Light Work: Exerting up to 25 pounds of force occasionally, and/or up to 10 pounds of force frequently, and/or a negligible amount of force constantly to lift, carry, push, pull or otherwise move objects. 
• Must be able to remain in a stationary position for an extended period of time.
• Must be able to communicate information and ideas so others will understand.  Must be able to exchange accurate information in these situations.
• Ability to observe details at close range (within a few feet of the observer)

Machines, Tools, Equipment, Software and Hardware:

• Typically requires use of standard office equipment and telephone, and related software and hardware; and any other equipment as appropriate or as assigned.  

Work Environment:

• Work is performed in an office environment where there may be exposure to computer screens for extended periods of time, monitor glare and dust.    
• The noise level in the work environment is usually quiet but may include light machine noise.