CURRENTLY SEEKING A MAKER STUDIO MANAGER

Job Overview

AIMS is seeking a passionate, organized, and hands-on Maker Studio Manager to lead and grow our dynamic maker space. The ideal candidate will be a dynamic and collaborative educator with a background in the maker movement, inquiry-based learning, design thinking, and a passion for empowering youth and community members in hands-on science, technology, engineering, art, and math (STEAM) learning. The Maker Studio Manager will oversee daily operations, maintain tools and equipment, facilitate programs, and collaborate with staff, educators, and volunteers to deliver engaging maker-centered learning experiences for all ages.

Responsibilities

Studio Operations & Maintenance

  • Oversee day-to-day operations of the maker studio, ensuring a safe, welcoming, and inclusive environment

  • Maintain tools, equipment (e.g., 3D printers, laser cutters, electronics, sewing machines), and inventory of materials; perform troubleshooting and routine maintenance of equipment

  • Organize, curate, and maintain the maker studio space and materials, incorporating sustainable practices and upcycling when possible

  • Develop and enforce safety protocols and equipment usage guidelines

  • Manage studio scheduling for workshops, open hours, camps, and special events

Program Development & Instruction

  • Design and deliver engaging, hands-on STEAM and maker-focused programming for youth, families, and educators

  • Lead workshops, afterschool programs, summer camps, and community events

  • Collaborate with educational program team members, providing insights into incorporating innovation, design thinking, and making across AIMS programs

  • Provide training and technical support to participants, educators, and facilitators on the safe and effective use of studio tools and software

Team & Volunteer Coordination

  • Supervise and support teaching artists, interns, and volunteers working in the maker studio

  • Facilitate staff and volunteer training related to maker tools, activities, and safety practices

Community Engagement, Outreach & Partnerships

  • Foster a creative, collaborative maker culture with an emphasis on equity, belonging, creativity, and innovation.

  • Partner with local schools, libraries, and community organizations to expand access to STEAM learning.

  • Represent AIMS at community events and conferences as needed.

  • Develop and lead outreach efforts to engage new audiences, raise awareness of the maker studio, and build long-term community relationships.

  • Create outreach materials and collaborate with the communications team to highlight programs and success stories.

Administration & Reporting

  • Manage studio budget and procurement of supplies and materials

  • Track program outcomes, studio usage, and participant feedback for reporting and continuous improvement

  • Contribute to grant writing, fundraising events, and communications related to maker programming

Required Qualifications

The following qualifications are required for this position:

  • Bachelor’s degree in a STEAM-related discipline

  • Teaching or facilitation experience with youth (ideally ages 8–18)

  • Experience with makerspaces, fab labs, and design thinking in the PK-12 or similar environment

  • Personal experience with tool-based making processes as well as diverse materials (wood, cardboard, paper, fabric, etc.)

  • Proficiency with makerspace equipment and software (e.g., Tinkercad, 3D printers, laser cutters, microcontrollers)

  • Strong attention to detail, collaborative spirit, excellent communication, interpersonal and organizational skills, awareness of issues relating to access and inclusion

Preferred Qualifications

  • Master’s degree in a STEAM-related discipline

  • Bilingual or multilingual abilities

  • Experience in facilitating professional learning with educators

  • Experience with tools and equipment currently available in the maker studio (such as: Universal Laser Cutter; Roland Vinyl Cutter; Cricut Cutter; Lilypad Arduino; Raspberry Pi; micro:bit; Circuit Playground Express; Soldering; 3D printers; Sewing, Serger, and Embroidery machines)

  • Experience with community outreach, grant writing, and event coordination