Entry Level Technology Specialist Jobs

Pay Range: USD $47,840.00 - USD $76,540.00 /Yr. Overview:

Auburn University Libraries seeks candidates for the position of Instructional Technology Specialist in the Innovation & Research Commons (I&RC). Reporting to the Assistant Dean for Innovation Support, this position manages the MakerSpace by providing technology training, user support, equipment maintenance, and program development for Auburn University faculty, staff, and students.

The successful candidate will oversee MakerSpace operations, supervise and train student employees, develop instructional resources and procedures, and promote innovative learning opportunities through emerging technologies. This position supports the creation of an active peer-to-peer learning environment and collaborates with campus partners to expand awareness and use of MakerSpace services. The typical work hours are 7:45 a.m.-4:45 p.m. Monday through Friday with occasional weekends and evenings.

Responsibilities:

• Student Employee Supervision: Hires, trains, supervises, and assigns work and projects to student assistants while fostering a peer-to-peer learning environment for MakerSpace technologies. Provides guidance, feedback, and ongoing support to student employees to ensure effective service delivery and a positive user experience.
• MakerSpace Operations and User Support: Manages daily MakerSpace operations, including scheduling, equipment availability, inventory, supply management, and tracking user training certifications. Provides hands-on support and instruction to users working on projects involving tools such as 3D printers, sewing machines, basic electronics, laser cutters, and other MakerSpace equipment. Maintains and troubleshoots hardware, software, and technology resources within the MakerSpace. Monitors facility operations, identifies equipment or technology needs, and recommends improvements to support an effective learning environment.
• Instruction, Documentation, and Training: Develops and maintains public policies, training procedures, and documentation to promote safe and effective MakerSpace usage. Creates instructional resources and provides individual and group training on MakerSpace technologies and applications. Ensures users understand equipment requirements, safety procedures, and appropriate use of MakerSpace resources.
• Outreach and Program Development: Works with the I&RC Outreach Administrator to promote MakerSpace services, events, and programs and represent the MakerSpace to campus and external audiences. Creates and maintains webpages, promotional materials, and other resources related to MakerSpace services. Develops partnerships and engagement opportunities that increase awareness and use of MakerSpace resources. Recommends facility changes, equipment purchases, and program enhancements by researching emerging technologies, maker trends, tools, and best practices.
• Assessment and Continuous Improvement: Collects, analyzes, maintains, and reports usage statistics and other metrics related to MakerSpace activities. Evaluates program effectiveness and recommends improvements to enhance services and user experiences.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree
• 2 years of experience in developing, installing and/or supporting the use of instructional technologies

Preferred Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in engineering, science, education, art/design, computer science, information technology, or a related field.
• Experience supervising personnel and managing day-to-day operations.
• Experience using, supporting, and maintaining Makerspace technologies, including but not limited to 3D printers, CAD and graphic design software, laser cutters, vinyl cutters, sewing and embroidery machines, button makers, and other digital fabrication equipment.
• Experience maintaining, troubleshooting, and repairing hardware and software in a Makerspace, laboratory, classroom, or similar technology-rich environment.
• Experience supporting the application of Makerspace technologies for teaching, learning, research, creative activities, or community engagement in an academic environment.
• Experience developing, implementing, and maintaining policies, procedures, and safety protocols.
• Demonstrated ability and willingness to learn and adapt to new and emerging technologies, software, and equipment.

Minimum Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Knowledge of information technology, media technologies, digital fabrication technologies, and instructional technologies used to support teaching, learning, research, and creative activities.
• Ability to effectively communicate technical information to technical and non-technical users.
• Ability to provide technology instruction, training, and support to users with varying levels of technical experience.
• Ability to troubleshoot, maintain, and support hardware, software, and specialized technology equipment.
• Ability to develop documentation, training materials, and standard operating procedures.
• Ability to manage multiple projects, priorities, and deadlines in a dynamic environment.
• Strong communication, interpersonal, collaboration, and customer service skills, with the ability to work effectively with faculty, staff, students, and campus partners.
• Knowledge of safe operating practices, risk mitigation, and equipment safety procedures in a Makerspace or similar technology-rich environment.

Physical Requirements: Ability to stand and walk for extended periods; bend, stoop, kneel, and reach as needed; use hands and fingers to operate computers, tools, and specialized Makerspace equipment; and lift, carry, push, or pull up to 25 pounds regularly and up to 50 pounds occasionally, with or without reasonable accommodation.

Why Work at Auburn:

• Life-Changing Impact: Our work changes lives through research, instruction, and outreach, making a lasting impact on our students, our communities, and the world.
• Culture of Excellence: We are committed to leveraging our strengths, resources, collaboration, and innovation as a top employer in higher education.
• We’re Here for You: Auburn offers generous benefits, educational opportunities, and a culture of support and work/life balance.
• Sweet Home Alabama: The Auburn/Opelika area offers southern charm, vibrant downtown scenes, top-ranked schools, and easy access to Atlanta, Birmingham, and the Gulf of Mexico beaches.
• A Place for Everyone: Auburn is committed to fostering an environment where all faculty, staff, and students are welcomed, valued, respected, and engaged.
• Ready to lead and shape the future of higher education? Apply today! War Eagle!

Equal Opportunity Compliance Statement: It is our policy to provide equal employment and education opportunities for all individuals without regard to race, color, national origin, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, age, disability, protected veteran status, genetic information, or any other classification protected by applicable law. Please visit the Office of Equal Opportunity Compliance's website to learn more.