Description
JOB TITLE: Makerspace Supervisor
CLASS/GRADE: Professional I
POSITION TYPE: Hourly
REPORTS TO: Learning Services Manager
RESPONSIBILITY
Create and facilitate programs, classes, and activities that encourage the use of LPCPL Exchange as a community gathering place for all ages, and a stepping-stone for education success. Supports the goals of the Learning Services Department, LPCPL makerspace, and other related library services.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
- Plan, conduct, and promote library classes and events with a focus on makerspace tools and STEAM.
- Conduct as well as support teammates who conduct orientations, demonstrations, and authorizations about equipment and technology.
- Provide technical expertise on the use of tools, equipment, and software.
- Collaborate closely with staff to support evolving curricula through training and the adoption of new software, tools, and equipment.
- Collaborate with community members, workforce professionals, and school contacts to promote the value and use of the makerspace.
- Stay current on fabrication technologies, equipment, and makerspace best practices, and provide recommendations on integration into current practices.
- Train, supervise and manage the work of volunteers and interns as it relates to Learning Services and the LPCPL Exchange.
- Aid makers in completion of projects associated with courses, independent projects and group activities.
- Perform daily safety supervision and enforcement of written policies for use of the Library’s digital and makerspace facility by makers and staff.
- Perform inventory operations that align with the instructional strategies of the use of the makerspace.
- Performs light cleaning and janitorial tasks. Monitors and reports more complex issues with cleaning, mechanical systems, and building issues.
- Contribute technical expertise and supports equipment in other Library facilities as appropriate.
- Supervises 4 FTE.
- Verifies staff schedules to ensure coverage of public service desks during Library operating hours.
- Oversees that light cleaning and janitorial tasks are completed. Monitors and reports more complex issues with cleaning, mechanical systems, and building issues.
- Apply Library policies consistently with all customers, staff, and vendors.
Requirements
REQUIREMENTS
- Masters of Library Science degree from an ALA accredited program.
- Valid State of Indiana Library Certification, Level 3 obtained within 3 years of hire as a condition of employment OR a Bachelor degree and 1 year or more experience with makerspace or similar facilities, and ability to obtain a valid State of Indiana Library Certification Level 4 within 3 years; must maintain all certification requirements.
- Technical knowledge of professional fabrication, sewing equipment, and wide range of makerspace software, and knowledge of appropriate diagnostic tools to solve technical and equipment issues preferred.
- Public speaking experience.
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills to communicate processes clearly, explain terms, concepts and technology and assign responsibility and provide feedback.
- Experience delivering information literacy instruction.
- Ability to troubleshoot equipment issues such as 3D printers, hand and stationary tools, vinyl cutters, sewing machine, laser cutter/engraver, and desktop CNC.
- Proficiency with computers, the internet, Microsoft Office, email, library specific software and standard office equipment. Ability to learn new technologies.
- Take charge in emergency situations.
TRAINING AND EXPERIENCE
- Model excellent and genuine customer service.
- Knowledge of library materials and services appropriate for a variety of customers.
- Understand, endorse, and communicate LPCPL’s policies and procedures.
- Demonstrate professionalism, courtesy, and respect when interacting with customers and coworkers.
- Complete assigned projects. Make decisions and work independently and interpedently.
- Solve problems in a professional manner with customers, co-workers and Leadership.
- Manage confidential information appropriately.
- Read, listen, comprehend, and follow verbal and written instructions.
- Attend conferences, workshops and training sessions as part of on-going professional development.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
- Frequently move about the makerspace to perform tasks; includes walking, standing, sitting, bending, reaching, and kneeling.
- Regularly lift and carry library materials, supplies, and boxes up to 25 lbs.; regularly push carts and bins weighing up to 100 lbs.
- Manual dexterity for typing, handling materials, and operating makerspace and office equipment, computers, and carts.
- Sufficient vision to read print and digital materials, including close, distance, color, and peripheral vision, and depth perception.
- Clearly listen and communicate with staff in a timely manner, in person, by phone, and in writing.
- Must be able to respond to alarms, sirens, and overhead pages promptly.
- Valid driver’s license and ability to safely operate library vehicles.
- Travel as required for meetings, events, training and conferences.
- Wears Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): gloves, safety glasses, face shields, hearing protection, masks, and aprons.
- Ability to assist with physical tasks performed by team members when needed.
Skills Required
- Master of Library Science degree from an ALA-accredited program
- Valid State of Indiana Library Certification Level 3 within three years of hire, or a bachelor's degree and at least one year of makerspace or similar facility experience with ability to obtain Level 4 certification within three years
- Maintain all applicable library certification requirements
- Public speaking experience
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills
- Experience delivering information literacy instruction
- Ability to troubleshoot 3D printers, hand and stationary tools, vinyl cutters, sewing machines, laser cutters/engravers, and desktop CNC equipment
- Proficiency with computers, internet, Microsoft Office, email, library-specific software, and standard office equipment
- Ability to learn new technologies
- Ability to take charge in emergency situations
- Technical knowledge of professional fabrication, sewing equipment, makerspace software, and diagnostic tools
- Valid driver's license and ability to safely operate library vehicles
- Ability to travel for meetings, events, training, and conferences
What We Do
La Porte County Public Library is a public library system serving La Porte County, Indiana. It operates a main library, six branches, a makerspace (LPCPL Exchange), mobile library and classroom, and community outreach programs. The library provides lending of books and media, digital collections, public events, technology help, and services like meeting room reservations and Library of Things to support lifelong learning and community access.









