Library Assistants, STEAM (2 Part-Time Positions)

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Location: Cambridge, Massachusetts, U.S.A.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

Under the general supervision of the Manager of Library STEAM Programs and Manager of Innovation & Technology, provides exceptional service at The Hive – the CPL’s new makerspace slated to open in early 2020 – and other areas as needed and assists patrons with their use of a range of technologies.

To learn more about The Hive and STEAM Initiative, please visit: https://www.cambridgema.gov/Departments/cambridgepubliclibrary/steaminitiative

  • Delivers exceptional and engaging customer service to the public, including greeting and assisting users
  • Responsible for overseeing The Hive during scheduled shifts
  • Maintains the orderly function of The Hive, including communicating with the Manager of Library STEAM Programs, Manager of Innovation & Technology and other IT staff, enforcing the policies of the space and the library, and troubleshooting technical issues
  • Introduces patrons to the space; conducts orientation and introductory training; Responds to basic inquiries about use of the space and technologies in it
  • Provides equipment and software support to a wide variety of users inside The Hive and in other locations as required
  • Assists patrons in booking equipment and/or studios. Checks patrons in for studio bookings and sets up/tears down A/V recording studios between bookings
  • Ensures smooth transition between users of the space
  • Performs routine maintenance such as replacing cartridges and refilling supplies
  • Provides instructions and assistance with use of the various technologies in the space including 3D printers, 3D scanners, Augmented and Virtual Reality equipment, and recording equipment
  • Provides training, orientations, logistical, and technical support to staff from other departments and volunteers who are planning and delivering public programs in the space
  • Inventories and tracks equipment and identifies and reports any equipment needing repair or replacement
  • Assists in developing, preparing, and presenting programs and learning opportunities
  • Works across Library and City locations, as well as at various community spaces and events as needed
  • Attends meetings and professional development opportunities to stay abreast of technological changes and updates
  • Assists with training other staff and volunteers working in the space; Assists with implementing and maintaining badging system
  • May be responsible for adding timely content on a portion of the Library website or Library social media
  • Works in other public service areas as needed
  • Works a regular part-time schedule with flexibility to fill in during other hours as needed
  • Performs other tasks as assigned by the Manager for the good of the department and the library

 

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:

High school diploma or high school equivalency required.  A bachelor’s degree or coursework beyond high school is strongly desired, especially in the area of STEAM and maker technologies. Requires sufficient experience in prior employment to indicate an ability to successfully perform the duties of the job.

  • Knowledge of STEAM related equipment, software, and best practices
  • Comfortable with computers and technology, including knowledge of and willingness to learn emerging technologies
  • Ability to provide exceptional customer services in a fast-paced environment involving varied technologies and ability to assist patrons at different skill levels
  • Experience providing instruction in one-on-one and group learning environments
  • Experience with 3D technologies, virtual and augmented reality technologies, laser cutters, soldering equipment, sewing machines, digitization equipment and other makerspace equipment and technologies
  • Experience with audio and video recording equipment such as sound booths, green screens, video cameras, audio mixers and microphones strongly preferred
  • Attention to detail and accuracy
  • Ability to follow oral and/or written instructions quickly and thoroughly
  • Ability to communicate effectively, patiently and courteously with supervisors, library staff, and the public
  • Genuine interest in helping library patrons and providing excellent service in a diverse, urban environment
  • Punctuality and dependability
  • Resourcefulness   Tact   Patience   Initiative   Enthusiasm   Maturity
  • Ability to handle multiple activities or interruptions at once and to stay calm during stressful situations
  • Flexibility generally as well as in emergency staffing situations
  • Ability to work with enthusiasm and initiative, a cheerful disposition, and a willingness to work positively, effectively and harmoniously with others within a team model, assisting and supporting coworkers

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:  Physically able to operate a variety of machinery and equipment including office equipment, AV equipment, mobile devices, and more extensive makerspace technologies; Must be able to pay close attention to details and concentrate on work; Time management ability; Ability to sit and use computer workstation for extended periods of time; Sufficient clarity of speech and hearing to communicate effectively; Sufficient vision to read books, email and to scan a room; Sufficient personal mobility and physical reflexes to move around heavy items.  Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.

WORK ENVIRONMENT:    Works in assigned area, including office areas, training rooms, library and city locations including outside venues as necessary. Normal office exposure to noise and interruptions. Attends and participates in various programs as requested to enhance skills associated with the position.

HOURS OF WORK:                Library Assistant, STEAM 1 – L414-731: 20 hours per week. Initial schedule is Tuesdays 2:30pm-9:00pm, Wednesdays 1:00pm-5:00pm, Thursdays 2:30pm-9:00pm and Saturdays 11:00am-3:00pm

Library Assistant, STEAM 2 – L414-732: 20 hours per week. Tuesdays 4:00pm-9:00pm, Wednesdays 4:00pm-9:00pm, Thursdays 3:00pm-9:00pm, and Saturdays 11:00am-3:00pm

For both positions, hours are assigned and may be changed to meet the needs of the Department and the Library. Flexibility is required.

RATE: $23.43 per hour to $25.22 per hour in five steps

APPLICATION PROCEDURE:

Internal applicants submit a job bidding form and 2 copies of both your resume and letter of interest; external applicants submit both your resume and letter of interest by 5pm on the closing date via email to: employment@cambridgema.gov or to Personnel Dept, Room 309, City Hall, 795 Massachusetts Avenue, Cambridge MA  02139. Fax 617-349-4312

 

THE CITY OF CAMBRIDGE IS AN AFFIRMATIVE ACTION/EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER. WOMEN, MINORITIES, VETERANS, MEMBERS OF THE LGBTQ+ COMMUNITY, AND PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY.