The Piscataway Public Library (http://piscatawaylibrary.org) is looking for an individual who is part artist, part instructor and part collaborator. Someone who is passionate about tinkering and understands the concept of “learning by doing.” This is a unique opportunity to work with youth of a variety of ages from 9-18, while also facilitating fun, interesting and challenging projects with them in our MiY: Make it Yourself Makerspace.
This position is a temporary, part-time, grant-funded 2014 summer position, which will last eight weeks from Monday, June 23rd, through Thursday, August 14th. Hours for the position will be Mondays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays from 1:30-4:30, during which you will lead and facilitate projects from 2:00-4:00pm (with 30 minutes before and after each project for preparation and questions or run over). Projects will take place at both of our branches. A librarian on staff will be assisting our Maker Coach with facilitating each project. Information about each of the projects will be provided to candidates asked to interview.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES. Provide design process/based instruction for craft, technical, or building projects. Create an environment for learners to arrive at their own conclusions. Model, scaffold and coach hands-on projects. Manage facilities to ensure a safe and healthy learning environment. Secure and maintain tools and equipment. Incorporate 21st-century skills of problem solving, collaboration, and teamwork to encourage innovation and creativity. Design, develop, or refine project plans for the appropriate grade-level class including learner-centered activities, resources/materials and opportunities for reflection. Support students in documenting projects on a web-based digital portfolio platform.
REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS, KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS. Demonstrated experience with technical, craft, and/or building projects. Basic knowledge of engineering/design process. Experience working with youth in instructional setting, i.e., classroom, club, camp. Experience with facilitating a learning environment for minimum group of 10 students. Working knowledge of a variety of “making” platforms, i.e., electronics, robotics, 3-D printing, sewing, physical computing, and craft media such as wood, metal and textiles OR curiosity and commitment to developing such skills. Working knowledge of tools and equipment specific to program projects. Well-developed communication skills both written and oral. Strong planning, project, and time-management skills to effectively run program and oversee hands-on student projects. Well-developed interpersonal skills to work effectively with diverse student, staff, and volunteer participants.
ADDITIONAL CONSIDERATIONS. Any combination of experience, education, and skills will be considered. Background checks will be performed on all instructors. Ability to travel to both branches of the Piscataway Public Library.
SALARY. Pay rate for this position is $20 per hour. This position may be split among more than one candidate depending on the applicant pool.
TO APPLY. Interested candidates should send a brief cover letter and resume to Doug Baldwin at dbaldwin@piscatawaylibrary.org. Use the subject “maker coach” in your subject line. Please also refer any specific questions or inquiries to this email. No phone calls please.