Makerspace and Public Service Assistant

JOB SUMMARY

Ottawa Public Library (OPL) provides accessible, innovative library and information services across the city of Ottawa, tailored to the diverse needs of its communities.

These services are offered through 33 branches, and through mobile and digital platforms, tailored to the diverse needs of Ottawa’s communities.

OPL’s Makerspaces are interactive environments equipped with specialized tools and software (e.g. 3D printers, laser cutters, sewing machines, design software, recording studios) that offer hands-on opportunities for learning, creating, and collaborating.

You provide client service and support; deliver training to clients; assist with developing, implementing, and delivering makerspace programs; maintain makerspace area, equipment and software; and provide materials handling and collections maintenance support. You play a key role in fostering an inclusive culture of creativity, innovation, and applied learning where curiosity, risk taking, and shared knowledge are celebrated.

OPL employees support and work within the policies and framework of the Library corporate culture as embodied in the Vision and Mission Statements, Shared Values, and OPL’s position statement on Intellectual Freedom, with particular emphasis on providing client service excellence.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

Completion of a 2-year college diploma in a relevant technology or multimedia program from a recognized institution (e.g. electrical or mechanical engineering technician diploma, theatre and entertainment production etc.)

Library and Information Technician diploma is an asset

Certificate in CNC/Precision Machinist is an asset

Minimum of two years of combined experience, including:

• one (1) year of client service and instructional or programming experience; and
• one (1) year of relevant experience with digital design using creative technologies on both PC and Mac platforms. This may include, but is not limited to:

• • photo, video, or sound editing
  • sewing or embroidery technologies
  • animation
  • digital design tools and software

Experience working with a variety of creative technologies and software is required.

Experience with a variety of CNC machines or in photo, video or sound editing is an asset.

Experience with CAD and CAM software is an asset

KNOWLEDGE

• Methods and techniques of responding to inquiries and tactfully resolving client complaints
• Multiple technology platforms (e.g. tablets, phones, e-readers, Android, Apple) as it relates to library offerings
• Computer hardware, operating system software, applications and software packages, as it relates to library offering or staff applications
• Desktop applications, intranet and internet and keyboarding procedures, to the extent where it may be required to demonstrate such usage to colleagues or library clients
• Electronic database and other bibliographic searching techniques
• Literature in a variety of formats, readers’ advisory services, trends in reading, literacy, ESL collections, and library programming
• Principles of Intellectual Freedom
• Principles of collection development and maintenance
• Methods and techniques for sorting and shelving library materials according to alphabetical, Dewey Decimal or other prescribed sequence and procedures
• Library circulation procedures and practices
• General knowledge of library policies, procedures and trends
• Knowledge of applicable health and safety legislation, including the rights and duties of workers

COMPETENCIES, SKILLS AND ABILITIES

• Client service orientation, including the use of tact, discretion and confidentiality
• Exceptional ability to learn on the job and effectively apply learning to new technologies, hardware, software and platforms
• Effective independent decision-making, judgement and creative problem solving and troubleshooting capabilities
• Aptitude for critical and solutions-based thinking and taking initiative.
• Effective verbal and written communication, including interpersonal conflict resolution skills.
• Skill at providing training and support for clients and staff and ability to translate relatively complex technologies to clients with little or no digital literacy
• Effectively plan, deliver and evaluate library programs
• Can work with multiple mobile platforms (tablets, phones, android, apple, etc.)
• Efficient time management and ability to perform multiple tasks concurrently
• Work effectively independently, and collaboratively within a team environment
• Perform a range of circulation/page activities, including registration, collecting fees, and to respond effectively to a range of library service inquiries and resolve complaints
• Ability to handle and account for cash and follow cash handling procedures
• Attention to detail
• Flexibility, ability to adjust priorities and handle ambiguity
• Strongly committed to quality client service
• Perform routine manual tasks and maneuver book carts and lift boxes up to 40 pounds