Makerspace Specialist, Fairfield Prep (Part Time)

Fairfield University is a co-educational, comprehensive Jesuit university with a 200-acre campus located along the scenic shoreline community of Fairfield, CT. The University is comprised of approximately 3,500 undergraduate and 1,200 graduate students pursuing degrees within 5 schools: The College of Arts and Sciences, The Charles F. Dolan School of Business, The School of Engineering, The Marion Peckham Egan School of Nursing and Health Studies, and School of Education and Human Development. As an expression of our Jesuit, Catholic mission and identity, Fairfield embraces a liberal humanistic approach to education, encouraging critical thinking, cultivating free and open inquiry, and fostering ethical and religious values.

Job Description:

Fairfield College Preparatory School is an all-boys Jesuit, Catholic high school of excellence located on the campus of Fairfield University for students in ninth through twelfth grade.

Fairfield Prep Mission Statement

Fairfield College Preparatory School is a Jesuit, Catholic School of excellence forming young men of intellectual competence, who possess the conscience to make wise decisions, a compassion for others, and a commitment to justice in our global society.

Fairfield Prep Vision Statement

Fairfield College Preparatory School strives to be a reflective community of faith, in which students revere their relationship with God and with one another. We are committed to graduating transformational leaders who will respond to global and ecological challenges in an interconnected world marked by profound change.

The McLeod Innovation Center

The McLeod Innovation Center is at the forefront of educational and technological advancement, providing an environment that fosters creativity, learning, and innovation. Our mission is to equip students and educators with cutting-edge resources and skills, enabling them to explore, create, and innovate.

Position Overview: The Makerspace Specialist is responsible for managing equipment, assisting students and faculty with projects, facilitating workshops, and fostering an inclusive, innovative learning environment. The specialist will guide students in the use of various tools and technologies, from 3D printers to laser cutters, and mentor them on prototyping and fabrication techniques. The role also involves collaboration with faculty to integrate makerspace resources into curricula and research initiatives.

Key Responsibilities

Innovation Center Operations & Maintenance:

• Maintain, troubleshoot, and repair equipment (3D printers, CNC machines, laser cutters, etc.).
  
  
• Manage inventory of tools, supplies, and materials.
  
  
• Enforce safety protocols and best practices in the Innovation Center.
  
  
• Maintain a clean, organized, and accessible workspace for all users.
  
  

Student and Faculty Support:

• Provide hands-on guidance and technical support to students and faculty using the makerspace.
  
  
• Advise and mentor students on project planning, prototyping, and fabrication techniques.
  
  
• Conduct orientations and safety training sessions for new users.
  
  
• Assist with the development of course projects or research using the makerspace equipment and creative technologies.
  
  

Workshops and Programming:

• In collaboration with the Innovation of Director, develop and lead workshops on topics related to digital fabrication, design, and making.
  
  
• Organize events, competitions, and showcases to encourage student participation and innovation.
  
  

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field (e.g., engineering, design, architecture, computer science, etc.).
  
  
• Experience working with digital fabrication tools and equipment (3D printers, laser cutters, CNC machines, etc.).
  
  
• Strong technical troubleshooting skills with makerspace equipment and creative technologies.
  
  
• Experience in mentoring or teaching students in a hands-on, project- and inquiry-based environment.
  
  
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
  
  
• Team player with a collaborative spirit, flexibility, problem-solving skills, and a growth mindset.
  
  
• Proactive and eager to learn on the job with a “can do” attitude.
  
  
• Ability to manage multiple projects and prioritize tasks in a dynamic environment.
  
  
• A commitment to fostering innovation, creativity, and collaboration among students.
  
  
• An understanding of or experience with Jesuit ideals and education is highly regarded.
  
  

Preferred Qualifications:

• Previous experience in managing a makerspace or fabrication lab.
  
  
• Experience in curriculum development and integration of makerspace resources into academic programs.
  
  
• Proficiency in CAD software, 3D modeling, or coding.
  
  

Please note this is a temporary position through June 2025.

Category:

Prep - Staff

Performs such other duties, responsibilities, and activities as required by supervisor and as departmental/University needs indicate.

*Disclaimer

The above information indicates the general nature and level of work performed by employees within this classification. It is not designed to contain and should not be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities, activities, and/or qualifications required or expected of employees assigned to this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change and new ones may be assigned at any time, with or without notice.

All offers of employment are contingent upon a satisfactory background check.

Fairfield University provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training.

Load a resume or CV first, then upload supporting documents including a cover letter at the bottom of the third page under the "My Experience" section where it says to upload a Resume/CV. You will be able to upload up to 5 other documents in this section. You will be unable to edit your application, so please have all documents available before applying. Faculty Positions : If you need to upload more than 5 documents, please either combine them to upload or email the additional documents to the applicable contact in the job description. Staff positions : If you need to upload more than 5 documents, please either combine them to upload or email them to hr@fairfield.edu