Makerspace Specialist

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 facility, mobile, and virtual channels.

You are responsible for planning, coordinating, and implementing in-person, hybrid and/or virtual programs, special events, workshops, series, and other activities that will occur in OPL’s various Makerspaces and creative labs across the organization. You discover and promote traditional and emerging makerspace technology contributing to innovation and creative technology planning and implementation across the organization. You provide advice and guidance for specialized Makerspace services to internal partners, as well as clients in individual and small group settings. You develop strong relationships with Ottawa’s creative, craft-focused, and innovative technology communities to deliver engaging activities and events, promote library services in the community, and collaborate with OPL staff for projects, services, and program delivery.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

4-year undergraduate degree from a recognized university with an area of focus in art, design, technology, or a related field.

Master’s degree in library and/or information sciences from an accredited library school is an asset.

1 year of related experience working with makerspace technology and developing and delivering creative technology services in a public setting.

KNOWLEDGE

• Comprehensive understanding of OPL's mission, vision, values, governance structures, and familiarity with corporate policies and procedures of both OPL and City of Ottawa.
• Library program evaluation principles and practices
• Project management principles and practices
• Demonstrated knowledge in areas related to creative technology services including coding, prototyping technology, 3D/vinyl printing, robotics machine learning, laser cutting, STEAM and makerspace programming
• Comprehensive knowledge and interest in creative technologies, current events
• and services available in libraries
• General computer and technology skills and broad technology experience with a wide variety of creative and design technologies on both the MAC and PC platforms including photo, video and sound editing
• Knowledge of 2 and 3D design processes, and familiarity with creative and design software, proficiency in MS Office and multimedia software and using lighting, audio and video technology, and green screens
• Ability to learn on the job and effectively apply learning to new technologies, hardware, software, and platforms
• Familiarity with Integrated Library Systems (preferably SIRSI) and basic inventory control experience
• Community Engagement practices
• Contract management practices and principles
• Familiarity with Occupational Health and Safety procedures and protocols, including WHMIS requirements
• Knowledge of applicable health and safety legislation, including the rights and duties of workers

COMPETENCIES, SKILLS AND ABILITIES

• Excellent technology troubleshooting skills and problem-solving abilities
• Ability to use, troubleshoot, and maintain a variety of equipment like 3D printers, laser engraver, as well as design software and other lo and hi fi making equipment
• Ability to design, plan and fabricate special demonstration units and training tools
• Ability to use equipment safely and appropriately without supervision and familiarity working with a wide range of materials: wood, acrylic, electronics, and assorted material fabrication skills
• Project management: planning, organization, delegation, negotiation, and budget management
• Excellent oral and written communication and facilitation skills;
• Self-starter, resourceful, capable of working independently with minimal supervision
• Team leader and player, capable of working in a multi-disciplinary team environment
• Creative and innovative approach to issues and problem resolution
• Commitment to Indigenous reconciliation, equity, inclusion and diversity
• Awareness and understanding of the impacts of colonization, appropriation, historical injustices faced by Indigenous communities, and ongoing work related to the repatriation of Indigenous cultural belongings
• Strong service orientation
• Flexible approach to work assignments, proven ability to manage changing priorities and stress effectively
• Responsible, efficient and professional in carrying out duties and responsibilities
• Effective time management skills, able to work under tight deadlines
• Consistency, fairness, tact, empathy, and respect in interactions with others
• May be required to lift programming equipment and other items, up to 25lbs