STEAM Initiatives Manager - Main Branch at Lorain Public Library System

Distinguishing Features of the Position
The STEAM Initiatives Manager designs, coordinates, and implements system-wide STEAM programs that leverage Create Space, innovative, and STEAM-related technologies for patrons of all ages.  

Essential Job Duties and Responsibilities
Marketing 

• Promotes STEAM initiatives and highlights the library’s role as a hub for digital literacy, scientific exploration, and creative engagement.
• Integrates with LPLS’s Marketing and Public Relations department to put together proposals and other documents needed to support new initiatives.

Patron Instruction 

• Develops library curricula and resources for system-wide STEAM programs focused on hands-on learning, creative exploration, and inclusive project-based and co-learning environments 
• May serve as a substitute for branch and outreach program facilitators.

Personnel Management

• Provides training and support to staff on STEAM equipment, software, and best practices to ensure program success.
• Provides training and support for branch staff involved in program implementation. 
• Coordinates and supervises volunteers.

Programming 

• Coordinates workshops, classes, and events that align with community needs and reflect emerging trends in STEAM fields. 
• Builds relationships with local schools, businesses, and community organizations to expand the reach of STEAM programs and encourage collaborative learning.

Project Management

• Works with the management team to develop goals, procedures, training, and evaluation tools related to STEAM initiatives and the use of library equipment.
• Leads and facilitates advisory committees.
• Provides regular feedback on STEAM initiatives, identifying trends and relaying customer comments, staying current with trends in libraries, makerspaces, and STEAM education.

Technology Infrastructure Support

• Partners with Technology Services to identify and incorporate new STEAM technologies and innovative solutions into library programs.
• Stays up-to-date with trends in makerspaces, digital media, and technology education to recommend cutting-edge resources to the library system.
• Works seamlessly with the Technology Services Department to ensure the overall operations and safety of the makerspace, including troubleshooting, maintaining, and upgrading equipment and software as needed.
• Collaborates across departments with the STEAM Initiatives Manager and Director of Facilities to oversee the selection, implementation, and ongoing support of makerspace technologies, including 3D printers, CNC machines, long-arm quilting machines, laser cutters, and other tools integral to creative and educational library programming.
• Collaborates across departments with the STEAM Initiatives Manager and Director of Facilities to develop and oversee technology offerings for the library’s teen spaces, ensuring access to engaging, age-appropriate, games, tools, and resources that support learning, creativity, and digital literacy among teen patrons.

Performs other duties as assigned. 

Minimum Education & Experience Required

• Education:  Bachelor’s degree in Education or a related field is required. Master’s degree is preferred.
• Certifications or licensure: None. 
• Years of relevant experience: 2 or more years is preferred.
• Years of experience supervising: None.
• Pre-employment drug screening is  required.
• Criminal background and education verification checks are required. 

Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities

• Knowledge of professional library principles, methods, techniques, and procedures
• Knowledge of setting up, operating, and maintaining makerspace equipment such as 3D printers, CNC machines, and other creative technologies, with the ability to train others and ensure safe, effective use.
• Skill in prioritization and project management skills.
• Skill in using Adobe Creative Suite applications, including Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign, with the ability to design, edit, and produce high-quality digital and print materials.
• Ability to make new connections and provide interconnected support
• Ability to assess community needs and recognize opportunities that would benefit the library. 
• Ability to lead, plan, coordinate the work of others
• Ability to work with discretion and integrity when accessing or handling sensitive labor relations and management information, including matters related to negotiations, grievances, and personnel decisions, in a manner consistent with the responsibilities and legal obligations of a confidential employee. 
• Ability to travel locally to library branches.
• Ability to use a computer and job-related software or systems applicable to the essential functions of the job, which may include, but not be limited to email/calendar software, internet/intranet browsers, word processing, spreadsheets, database software, and various systems of software used by the Library.

Physical Demands & Working Conditions - Moderate 

• The work environment involves everyday risks or discomforts that require normal safety precautions typical of offices, which includes the need for general safe workplace practices with office equipment and computers, avoidance of trips and falls, and observance of fire regulations.
• Employee may be exposed to hot and cold weather conditions to perform tasks, or warmer or cooler temperatures within Library buildings and property.
• The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate.
• This position is performed in an office setting although off-site meetings in various settings occur. 
• Lifting moderate objects of up to 50 pounds and carrying them distances of up to 50 feet is required.
• Moving moderate objects of up to 50 pounds and pushing them distances of up to 50 feet is required.
• May require working irregular hours, including evenings and weekends.
• Frequent local travel by library vehicle/personal automobile is required. 
• Occasional overnight travel may be required.

The intent of this position description is to provide a representative summary of the major duties and responsibilities performed by incumbents of this job. Incumbents may be requested to perform job-related tasks other than those specifically presented in this description. Reasonable accommodations will be made for persons with disabilities covered by the Americans with Disability Act [ADA] in accordance with its requirements.

Salary Range: 52,000 – 58,000

Closing Date for Internal Applicants: November 16,2025

Closing Date for External Applicants: Open Until Filled