Makerspace Operations Officer  

Summary of Work Activities and Responsibilities:

Under the supervision of the Executive Director of Areté, the Makerspace Operations Officer is responsible for maintaining and promoting the Makerspace Laboratory. The position also provides technical support to Areté.

Main Duties and Responsibilities

Makerspace Laboratory

• Assists in overseeing the day-to-day operation and use of the Makerspace Laboratory, establishing safety protocols for the effective use of the facilities and resources (e.g., hardware, software, etc.) that is conducive for learning and innovations.
  • Provides orientation on the usage of the Makerspace facilities and resources.
  • Ensures that the facilities and equipment in the Makerspace Laboratory are properly maintained, and is in its optimal working condition, contacting service repairs when needed.
  • Recommends improvements in the laboratory, including the repairs and purchase of equipment and facility maintenance.
  • Keeps abreast of the latest technological trends that may be adapted in the Makerspace Laboratory.
• Assists in developing prototypes/products through the Makerspace resources.
  • Collaborates with and supports program teams in the development of new Makerspace programs.

• Assists patrons (e.g., students, teachers, and researchers) in exploring possibilities on how to implement their prototypes or intended outputs.
  • Assists patrons in defining their project scope and objectives with the intention of ensuring technical feasibility.
  • Links patrons with possible mentors who can provide inputs on their projects, and/or directs them to the most appropriate tools and resources.
  • Oversees the proper implementation/fabrication/production of prototypes/products.

• Assists in promoting the Makerspace Laboratory as a place for transdisciplinary experimentation, exploration, and innovation of products.
  • Liaises and networks with possible program partners, and other Makerspace and Fabrication Laboratories.
  • Coordinates activities, tours, workshops, learning sessions and events pertinent to the advancement of the Makerspace Laboratory.
  • Assists in the preparation of proposals for funding, and prepares necessary reports.
• Ensures that all consumable materials and supplies of the Makerspace Laboratory are available when needed, that stock levels are regularly replenished.
• Monitors the financial ledger of the Makerspace Laboratory, attending to the administration of financial transactions from collecting receivables to preparing payments.
• Maintains, organizes, and safekeeps all documents and records related to the Makerspace Laboratory.

Areté Technical Support

• Maintains, organizes and safe keeps all of Areté’s equipment and software including LCD projectors, sound systems, computers etc.
• Sets up Areté computers and performs software troubleshooting for computers, printers, projectors, and other technical issues.
• Performs basic troubleshooting and repairs of equipment.
• Provides logistical support for Areté events and projects.
  • Assists the Theater Technical Director and works with the Theater Crew in preparing for theatrical events and projects.

Perform other duties as may be required by the immediate supervisors and authorized representative.

• Bachelor’s Degree in any STEM course
• At least two years professional experience providing support services and coordinating events in a STEM-related discipline.
• Experience in writing fund proposals, is an advantage
• Good communication (oral and written) skills, with ability to do presentations
• Has commendable interpersonal skills and customer relations skills
• Organized and attentive to details
• Creative, flexible, and adaptable
• Robust technological competence, preferably with coding and designing competence. Preferably with experience in:
  • running and maintaining of PCs and LANs;
  • image editing, CAD/ CAM applications, and design software; and
  • using manufacturing and rapid prototyping technology and equipment including the following but not limited to:
    • CNC Milling machine
    • Industrial 3D printers
    • Desktop 3D printers
    • Universal Laser machine
    • Large format printers
    • Large format vinyl cutters
• Strong ability to establish working relationships, networks, and collaborators
• Advanced critical thinking and problem-solving skills