Job Description

Do you want a career that impacts the community? Do you have a desire to work somewhere that changes children’s lives?

Join Chicago Youth Centers as we serve over 3,000 children and families each year!

Title: Maker’s Lab Specialist

Company: Chicago Youth Centers (CYC)

Website: chicagoyouthcenters.org

Compensation: $18 - $20 per hour

Classification: Full Time; Non-Exempt

Reports to: Center Director

Supervisor Responsibilities: No

Location: CYC Sidney Epstein Center at 3415 W. 13th Pl

Schedule: 2:00p - 7:00p; Monday - Friday; schedule varies depending on program needs

Purpose: The Maker’s Lab Specialists assists elementary, middle and high school youth in using the lab’s computers, resources and other technology. Maker’s Lab Specialists also handle the care, inventory and checkout of equipment and act as a desk attendant.

Responsibilities:

• Create and maintain a supportive environment that is conducive to skill development and adolescent development based on youth-interests and peer and intergenerational collaboration
• Prepare Maker Space including setup, cleanup, and inventory of CYC equipment
• Staff the Maker Space to engage with youth, recruit and promote workshops and CYC happenings, act as a mentor and guide and to check out equipment
• Operate and inventory a variety of site-specific equipment including but not limited to desktop and laptop computers (PC’s), printers, cameras, 3D printers, and vinyl cutters.
• Instruct/assist in the instruction of classes on a variety of technology related subjects including but not limited to digital media, the maker movement, or STEAM
• Provide participants with regular opportunities to showcase work both through CYC and through other opportunities and venues
• Assure that CYC youth participants understand options & career paths in STEAM related fields
• Identify and encourage CYC youth that show passion for STEAM, offering or referring special program opportunities
• Create opportunities for youth to collaborate creatively and showcase their success locally, nationally and globally

Willing to embrace and demonstrate CYC’s Mantras:

• ATTITUDE MATTERS - Positivity begins with me. My attitude has the power to influence my environment and inspire those around me. I aim to be enthusiastic, optimistic, and kind—even when things get hard.
• CARE FOR REAL - I will take every opportunity to show that I truly care. I commit to serving children and families, my co-workers and my community. I will think, care and act in a respectful manner to uplift and support others.
• OWN IT - I will never say, “That’s not my job.” When I see something that needs to be done, I will assign myself and do it. I will make a commitment to carry out my job responsibilities and assignments with consistency, dependability, and respect.
• PUSH FORWARD - I will be determined and progressive in thought and action. I will press on when problems arise and find innovative ways to solve issues. I will continuously learn and be open to the ideas of others.

Requirements

• Associate’s degree in a relevant field with three years of experience. Bachelor’s Degree is a plus.
• Job experience and/or coursework in computer technology, digital media or multimedia, a S.T.E.A.M. discipline, hardware or software applications and troubleshooting, Internet research, teaching or training
• Proven knowledge of, and ability to use the technology associated with the Maker Space program
• Skills with technology, art, craft, engineering, music, science, green design, and other Maker themes OR curiosity and commitment to quickly develop such skills
• Knowledge in maintaining digital fabrication equipment including 3D printers, laser cutters, CNC routers, etc.
• Experience teaching in an educational or youth development setting; specifically through project based learning
• Bilingual language abilities is a plus

Benefits: This role is not benefits eligible.

Chicago Youth Centers is proud to be an equal opportunity employer and drug free workplace. We are committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of race, color, ancestry, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, citizenship, marital status, disability, gender identity or Veteran status. Chicago Youth Centers will provide reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities.

***This job description is not intended to represent a complete list of all duties and responsibilities. There may be unplanned activities and other duties assigned.***