Description

Position: Build Lab Specialist (Part-Time) - Makerspace / Teen Impact Center After School Enrichment

Location: Carpentersville, IL

Supervisor: Site Director of the Impact Center

Position Type: Part-Time

Hours: 1:30 PM - 7:00 PM, Monday - Friday

Role Overview:

The Build Lab Specialist at the Teen Impact Center, part of the Boys & Girls Club of the Northwest Suburbs, is responsible for overseeing the planning, development, implementation, and evaluation of the Build Lab Workforce Readiness Program. This dynamic role involves managing a space equipped with tools for woodworking, mechanical repairs, and creative projects, fostering an engaging environment that encourages youth to develop practical building skills, creativity, and problem-solving abilities. The Build Lab Specialist will also support the Pre-Apprenticeship and Impact Crew workforce experience programs, ensuring that members are prepared for success in both academic and career pursuits.

Key Responsibilities:

Build Lab Leadership:

Daily Operations: Oversee the daily activities in the Build Lab, ensuring a safe, organized, and productive environment.
Program Facilitation: Lead hands-on workshops, projects, and activities that develop creativity, mechanical skills, and critical thinking in students.
Program Evaluation: Continuously assess and refine programs based on student feedback and performance data to improve learning outcomes.

Program Implementation & Collaboration:

Program Delivery: Implement and manage existing Build Lab programs and partnerships, aligning with the Impact Center’s goals.
Interdisciplinary Projects: Collaborate with the Tech Lab Specialist and other staff to create interdisciplinary projects that integrate technology and hands-on building.
Curriculum Development: Assist in designing and implementing engaging, age-appropriate STEM experiences focused on woodworking, mechanical repairs, and other building skills.

Shared Responsibilities:

Supervision: Oversee teens during general clubhouse hours, ensuring safety and fostering a positive environment.
Event Participation: Actively participate in and support club-wide events, activities, and special programs.
Administrative Tasks: Manage program evaluations, compile monthly reports, and assist with attendance tracking and communication with parents.
Behavior Management: Address and manage behavioral issues using established protocols, creating a supportive and inclusive atmosphere.
Member Interaction: Build strong relationships with members, encouraging their exploration of the Build Lab and participation in club activities.
Training and Development: Participate in staff meetings, training sessions, and professional development opportunities.
Facility Maintenance: Ensure all tools, equipment, and workstations are well-maintained, up-to-date, used safely, and accurately tracked on an inventory list.

Ideal Candidate:

Hands-On Mentor: Proficient in various tools / building techniques, with a passion for inspiring and mentoring youth.
Youth Advocate: Experienced working with youth in environments like makerspaces, workshops, or community centers.
Innovative Thinker: Capable of balancing specialized building activities with broader club responsibilities, fostering creativity and problem-solving skills in students.
Community-Oriented: Skilled in making programs accessible and engaging for a diverse student body, promoting a sense of belonging and community.

Typical Day:

Arrive and greet students as they enter the center, setting a positive tone for the day.
Facilitate engaging Build Lab programming and activities, guiding students through hands-on projects.
Engage in shared responsibilities, including supervision, event participation, and administrative tasks.
Collaborate with other staff on interdisciplinary projects and assist with curriculum development as needed.

About BGCDT and the Impact Center:

At the Boys & Girls Clubs of Dundee Township (soon to become the Boys & Girls Club of the Northwest Suburbs), we offer a safe, supportive environment where young people can thrive. Our mission is to empower youth to reach their full potential as productive, caring, and responsible community members. The Impact Center is a forward-thinking high school program designed to equip students with the essential life, academic, and employability skills needed for success beyond graduation.

Requirements

Skills/Knowledge Required:

Education: High School diploma or GED.
Experience: Previous experience in environments like makerspaces, workshops, or schools, particularly in roles involving tool use and mechanical skills.
Technical Proficiency: Strong skills in tools and machinery relevant to building, such as woodworking, mechanical repairs, and basic engineering principles.
Youth Development: Knowledge of youth development philosophy, with the ability to motivate and manage youth effectively in a dynamic environment.
Collaboration & Organization: Strong organizational skills and the ability to work collaboratively with other staff members to integrate building activities across the club’s programming.
Reliability: Must be responsible, reliable, and able to work independently while handling multiple responsibilities.

Environment and Working Conditions:

Tasks are primarily performed in a workshop or lab setting, with occasional exposure to environmental conditions such as dirt, dust, odors, and noise.
Physical tasks may include standing for extended periods, stooping, kneeling, and lifting objects up to 50 pounds.

Work Environment:

This part-time position begins immediately and runs through June 2025, with potential for continuation. Expected hours are up to 30 per week. Competitive hourly wage based on experience.

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Boys & Girls Clubs of Dundee Township jobs

Build Lab Specialist (Part-Time)