Coordinator, Makerspace
Requisition ID: 20659
Department: Ottawa Public Library
Service: Branch Operations
Branch: Public Services
Employment Type: 1 Permanent Full Time Position
Work Hours: 35 hours per week
Affiliation: CUPE 503 Library - Public Service Job
Salary Information: $84,855.68 - $101,273.90 annually (2026 rates of pay)
Location: Central Branch, 555 Albert Street
City: Ottawa, ON
Job Category: Ottawa Public Library
Application Close: 06/02/2026
JOB SUMMARY
Ottawa Public Library (OPL) provides accessible, innovative library and information services throughout the City of Ottawa, that meet the unique needs of diverse communities, delivered through a range of vehicles and reflecting a citizen-centred approach.
You carry out the duties and responsibilities of one of the following assigned service areas: Adult & Readers’ Advisory, Reference, Children’s & Youth, Digital Services, Community or District Branch, Circulation, Access, Outreach and Volunteer, Collection Development, Technical Services, InfoService, Communications or Makerspace.
You also: perform administrative and human resource management duties; participate in the development of policies, procedures and objectives for library services; maintain an up-to-date knowledge and expand awareness of Library developments; establish and maintain liaisons with internal and external contacts; and exercise responsibility for the day-to-day operation of the library branch/service.
Work is performed within the context of the policies and framework of the Library corporate culture as embodied in the Mission Statement, Core Values, Customer Experience Guidelines and the Canadian Federation of Library Association position statements on Intellectual Freedom and Diversity and Inclusion, with particular emphasis on providing customer service excellence.
The Coordinator, Makerspace performs public services duties by:
- Providing direct service to the public and to staff in resolving problems, interpreting procedures and policies;
- Maintaining an up-to-date knowledge of trends in makerspace services; recommending new or expanded processes or services;
- Researching and testing effective procedures, processes, and/or technology to increase the efficiency and effectiveness of the delivery of makerspace services;
- Overseeing the workflow of the Makerspace including service bookings, certifications, programs and technology and equipment maintenance;
- Developing and maintaining relationships with managers and staff responsible for makerspace services;
- Providing the full range of client support services such as answering Library clients’ queries, assisting them in the use of makerspace tools and equipment;
- Coordinating training plans and safety requirements for clients and staff on relevant equipment; informing staff of updates or changes to equipment or procedure;
- Conducting tours and group visits.
EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE
Completion of 4-year university degree in information studies, engineering, digital arts, education, or other related field.
Master's degree in Library and/or Information Science from an accredited school is desirable.
Minimum of four (4) years of progressively increased responsibilities in the delivery of customer services, including three (3) years of experience in a makerspace, digital media lab, or creative technology setting.
CERTIFICATIONS AND LICENCESShort Description
Certification in precision machining an asset.
KNOWLEDGE
- Experience and familiarity with Makerspace technologies which may include creative computing, audio/video/music recording, 3D printing, vinyl cutting and other making tools.
- Management principles, including policy and procedural development, supervisory techniques and practices, budgeting and monitoring.
- Methods and techniques for customer service and complaint investigation and resolution.
- Theories and principles of library science as well as methods and techniques of library operations.
- General knowledge of Library policies and procedures.
- General knowledge of computer hardware, including peripherals and software and Microsoft Office
- Must possess the training, experience and knowledge to organize the work and its performance.
- Knowledge of applicable health and safety legislation, including the rights and duties of workers.
COMPETENCIES, SKILLS AND ABILITIES
- Working knowledge of two or more of the following technologies: Laser cutting and engraving, 3D printing, digital design software, fiber arts, or other Makerspace technologies.
- Lead by example, demonstrating integrity, creativity and enthusiasm in achieving results directly and through staff work teams.
- Exercise effective judgement and independent decision-making capabilities.
- Evaluate existing methods and procedures, analyze alternatives and develop and implement effective solutions or changes.
- Develop workplans; assign work, evaluate performance and supervise staff.
- Well-developed organizational skills.
- Use tact, discretion and confidentiality.
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
- To prepare and analyze statistics and report to management.
- Perform multiple tasks concurrently.
- Mediate and resolve conflicts effectively.
Core Behaviours
Core behaviours define the City's expectations of the behaviours employees should demonstrate in performing their work. They are reflective of the City's culture and values and guide all our present and future activities. Every employee is encouraged to learn, embody, and demonstrate these core behaviours.
Review the Core Behaviours.
Leadership Competencies
The City has defined key competencies that leaders are expected to embody and demonstrate to successfully move the organization towards achieving its strategic objectives and create an organizational culture that supports and empowers employees to excel, grow and reach their full potential. These leadership competencies and associated behaviours are expected to be demonstrated by leaders at all levels of the organization.
Review the Leadership Competencies.
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
- Language Requirement: Designated Day 1 Ready – immediate requirement for language proficiency: French: oral, reading, writing English: oral, reading, writing Candidates must meet language requirement for position upon hire.
- Police Record Check: The successful candidate will be required to complete a Vulnerable Sector Check (Level 3) with the Police Services detachment in their jurisdiction to the Ottawa Public Library's satisfaction.; Note: Under the age of 18, requires a Criminal Record and Judicial Matters (Level 2) check in place of the Vulnerable Sector Check.; Police record checks completed by a third-party company will not be accepted.
- Additional vacancies may occur during the competition process.
- Alternative educational credentials combined with job-related experience, demonstrated performance, and ability may be considered in lieu of stated academic requirements.
- Please save a copy of the job poster. Once the closing date has passed, it will no longer be available.
We wish to thank all applicants for their interest and effort in applying for this position. Only candidates selected for interviews will be contacted.
The Ottawa Public Library promotes the principles of diversity and inclusion and adheres to the tenets of the Canadian Human Rights Act and the Ontario Human Rights Code. We encourage applications from members of Indigenous, Black and other racialized communities, persons with disabilities, women and non-binary persons, persons of all ethnic origins, religions, sexual orientations, classes, gender identities and expressions.
Candidates are encouraged to self-identify as a member of one or more designated employment equity groups in the self-identification questionnaire.
The Ottawa Public Library provides accommodation to applicants during all parts of the hiring process, upon request. If contacted to proceed to the selection process, please advise us if you require any accommodation.
Accessible formats and communication supports are available upon request. Please contact the Employee Service Centre at 613-580-2424 extension 12211 or via email at esc-cse@ottawa.ca.