Makerspace Project Assistant

About the Job

This position is in-person only; remote work is not available.

Hours/Availability: 5 hours on MWF and 7 hours T-Th; schedule may change on a weekly basis.

Rate of Pay: $18-$20 per hour

Position Summary

The Makerspace Project Assistant supports the daily operations, instructional programming, and ongoing development of the Makerspace in the Health Sciences Libraries, with secondary coverage in the Virtual Reality Studio. This position works in close collaboration with the Makerspace Lab Manager and the Engagement, Outreach, and Community Partnerships staff to support a wide range of users, including undergraduate and graduate students, faculty, and staff across the University of Minnesota, and community partners.

The Makerspace Project Assistant serves as a peer-level technical and instructional resource, independently teaching beginner and intermediate workshops using established makerspace curriculum, while also contributing to the continuous improvement of instructional materials, workflows, and programs. The role combines hands-on technical support, equipment maintenance, and patron assistance with active participation in space planning, operational improvements, and program development.

This position requires strong technical competency with digital fabrication tools and software, the ability to troubleshoot and maintain complex equipment, and the capacity to communicate clearly with users of varying experience levels in a shared, interdisciplinary makerspace environment.

Responsibilities

Daily Operations & Staffing (40%)

● Staff the Makerspace in the Health Sciences Library during scheduled shifts, providing front-line support to patrons and ensuring safe, effective use of equipment and spaces.

● Assist patrons with project planning, tool use, software workflows, and troubleshooting across a range of experience levels.

● Support daily operational tasks such as opening and closing procedures, monitoring space usage, maintaining cleanliness and organization, and documenting issues or incidents.

● Assist with inventory management of makerspace tools, materials, and consumable supplies.

● Provide coverage for scheduled shifts and assist with operational needs in the Virtual Reality Studio as needed.

Instruction & Workshops (40%)

● Teach beginner and intermediate workshops using established makerspace curriculum, including hands-on instruction with digital fabrication tools and software such as 3D printers, laser cutters, CNC mills, 2D vector design tools, and 3D CAD software.

● Serve as a peer-level instructional resource during workshops and open hours, supporting patrons through demonstrations, guided instruction, and individualized assistance.

● Contribute to the refinement, documentation, and updating of makerspace curriculum and instructional materials in collaboration with library staff.

● Support outreach, programming, and instructional initiatives that serve undergraduate students, graduate students, faculty, and staff across the University.

Equipment & Technical Support (20%)

● Assist with routine maintenance, calibration, diagnostics, and repair of makerspace equipment, including 3D printers, laser cutters, CNC mills, and related technologies.

● Monitor equipment condition and usage, document technical issues, and coordinate with staff on repairs, maintenance schedules, and equipment improvements.

● Support safe operation of equipment through adherence to established procedures and reporting of safety concerns.

Qualifications

Required

● Demonstrated experience working in a makerspace, fabrication lab, design studio, or comparable technical learning environment.

● Demonstrated experience providing hands-on support or instruction with digital fabrication tools and equipment, such as 3D printers, laser cutters, CNC mills, or related technologies.

● Demonstrated experience assisting users with projects, troubleshooting technical issues, and explaining complex concepts to individuals with varying levels of experience.

● Strong problem-solving, communication, and interpersonal skills.

● Ability to work independently, make sound decisions in a shared technical environment, and collaborate effectively…