Makerspace & 3D Printing Manager
University of Florida
Job Description
POSITION TITLE: Makerspace & 3D Printing Manager
CLASSIFICATION: Library Associate 2
REPORTS TO: Amy Buhler, Associate Chair for the Marston Science Library
SALARY: $51,884 minimum salary; The Smathers Libraries offer a salary commensurate with experience and credentials.
The University of Florida offers a competitive benefits package including health, retirement, paid time off, discount programs, professional development and worklife support. Learn more.
JOB NUMBER: 535227 (Apply online)
DEADLINE DATE: March 31, 2025 - applications will be reviewed as received
NOTE: Typical working hours are 11:00 AM to 8:00 PM with a one-hour lunch break, Monday through Friday with some flexibility of working hours available upon consultation with supervisor.
JOB SUMMARY
The Makerspace & 3D Printing Manager oversees the staffing of the Makerspace, a public service point within Marston Science Library, as well as the UF Libraries’ 3D Printing Service. The Manager leverages excellent communication and time management skills to facilitate the balance of workloads and staffing between these two discreet yet dependent services. This position exercises a high level of authority, budgetary control, independence and initiative to make operational decisions related to these services including staffing, equipment, and space. This position possesses good working knowledge of 3D concepts, including practical knowledge of 3D printing techniques that support student and faculty research. The Manager directs services through the assessment of existing equipment, research and identification of new equipment, and creation of instruction/outreach activities associated with 3D printing and makerspace technologies. Additionally, this position provides excellent customer relations to library patrons through in-depth 3D/Makerspace consultation (via in person, phone, email, chat, etc.). The Manager also regularly collaborates and communicates with units across the UF Libraries and works with faculty and staff in other units at the University.
RESPONSIBILITIES
Operations & Fiscal Management for Marston Makerspace & 3D Services
• Manages the services associated with the Marston Makerspace and the UF Libraries’ 3D Printing Service through the development of workflows within the scope of established policies. Recommends policy changes to supervisor when appropriate.
• Supervises 4-8 student assistants (approximately 1.25 FTE) and volunteers including hiring, scheduling, training, approving time, and monitoring internal communications to ensure seamless service between shifts, and tracking repair triage.
• Conducts program assessment through the collection and analysis of statistics related to the Marston Makerspace and UF Libraries' 3D Printing Service to make evidence-based decisions regarding services, space, staffing, and equipment.
• Directs the flow and prioritization of orders in the 3D Printing Services queue. This includes operating the printers when a student is not available.
• Ensures compliance with all required training courses, updating before expiration, usually on an annual basis. Also ensure all other Makerspace and 3D employees have up to date trainings.
• Oversees and tracks spending of the MSL 3D OPS budget.
• Produces monthly transaction reports for reconciliation of the UF Libraries' 3D Printing Service fund.
• Makes allocation and purchasing decisions (in conjunction with supervisor) for the UF Libraries' 3D Printing Service fund.
• Keeps abreast of other related entities on campus (e.g. Arts & Craft Center at the Reitz Union and UF Fab Lab) and regularly refers to other complimentary services on campus and in the local community (e.g. Gainesville Hackerspace).
• Collaborates with supervisor to resolve any advanced issues.
Space & Technology Management for Marston Makerspace & 3D Services
• Manages the Marston Makerspace (Marston Science Library 100), maintaining the space and reporting issues to supervisor, the Chair of Marston, and other appropriate parties.
• Schedules student employees during open lab hours in the Marston Makerspace, approximately 25 hours each week in addition to 3D printing students based upon demand.
• Keeps up to date with associated software programs.
• Oversees the diagnosing and troubleshooting of malfunctioning makerspace and 3D technology; supervises or performs repairs. Provides preventative maintenance as needed.
• Maintains inventory and ensures that the Marston Makerspace and UF Libraries' 3D Printing Service have sufficient supplies and replacement parts.
• Coordinates updates of library websites containing information on Marston's Makerspace and 3D services.
• Designs and updates internal documentation and staff training materials related to makerspace/3D technology and workflows as needed.
Public Service & Outreach
• Provides specialized makerspace & 3D printing reference services when a student is not available or for complex requests (via in person, email, phone, chat, etc.).
• Communicates with teaching faculty assigning coursework that requires the Marston Makerspace and UF Libraries' 3D Printing Service.
• Provides tours, outreach, and instruction regarding the Marston Makerspace and 3D Printing Service to various audiences as time permits.
Other Duties
• Serves on Marston and UF Library committees as appropriate. Attends and contributes to Marston’s weekly staff meeting.
• Participates in professional development activities including workshops, classes, and conferences to upgrade tech-related and other job-related skills.
• Other duties as assigned.
QUALIFICATIONS
We value a range of experience and perspectives. Applicants are encouraged to communicate in their application materials and subsequent interview conversations how their work and other experiences satisfy the following qualifications in ways that may not be obvious. Required: High School diploma or equivalent and seven years of library, or relevant experience; or an Associate’s degree and five years of relevant experience; or a Bachelor’s degree and three years of relevant experience; or a Master’s degree and one year of relevant experience; or any equivalent combination of experience, training and/or education.
Preferred:
• Excellent customer service skills; ability to interact with all library clientele and co-workers in a professional manner
• Ability to lead teams and supervise and direct the work of others
• Strong time management skills, organization skills, and attention to detail
• Strong oral and written communication skills
• Ability to quickly and independently learn 3D printing and associated software and technology
• Knowledge of common makerspace tools and software (sewing machines, soldering irons, etc.)
• Ability to interact and collaborate effectively and professionally with colleagues to accomplish goals
• Initiative and ability to work independently with minimal supervision
• Supervisory experience
• Demonstrated analytical skills
• Flexibility, and ability to adapt and work in a rapidly changing academic environment
MARSTON SCIENCE LIBRARY
The Marston Science Library, named for Robert Q. Marston, the seventh president of the University of Florida, houses collections in agriculture, life sciences, engineering, physical sciences, mathematics, and environmental sciences. With over 2,000 seats, Marston experiences more than 2.1 million visitors per year and supports the teaching and research needs of 42 STEM departments across campus. Although the collections and reference services at Marston are focused on STEM disciplines, Marston is the most visited library on campus and is a hub of undergraduate student life across all majors. Marston has 10 library faculty and 13 staff that support a highly collaborative environment that offers an array of services, including 3D printing and the Marston Makerspace. Marston spearheads initiatives related to technology accessibility and actively works to develop partnerships with student organizations.
UNIVERSITY OF FLORIDA LIBRARIES
The libraries at the University of Florida form the largest academic information resource system in the state of Florida with seven libraries and two off-campus facilities. The George A. Smathers Libraries are comprised of six campus libraries and off-site facilities. In addition to this system, the Lawton Chiles Legal Information Center is part of the Levin College of Law. The Libraries hold over 6.27 million print volumes, 1.5 million e-books, over 197,000 full-text journals, over 1000 electronic databases, 1.3 million documents, and 1.4 million maps and images. Distinctive holdings include the Isser and Rae Price Library of Judaica, Latin American and Caribbean Collection, Baldwin Library of Historical Children’s Literature and the P.K. Yonge Library of Florida History. The Libraries maintain partnerships and participate in a variety of collaborative, international projects while engaging with the UF community. We are a member of the Association of Research Libraries (ARL) and other regional library consortia.
The library staff consists of more than 300 FTE librarians, technical/clerical staff and student assistants. The George A. Smathers Libraries are strong advocates for inclusion and intellectual freedom. The Libraries’ commitment to both is articulated in the Inclusion and Intellectual Freedom Statements.
Support for professional development is central to the Smathers Libraries. Supports include a formal mentoring program, a robust training program, release time for research and professional service, a comprehensive grants program, and funding for professional development travel.
LIBRARIES LAND ACKNOWLEDGMENT
The Smathers Libraries acknowledge that the main (Gainesville) campus of the University of Florida is located in the ancestral territory of the Potano and later the Seminole peoples. The Smathers Libraries acknowledge its obligation to honor the past, present, and future Native residents and cultures of Florida.
THE UNIVERSITY OF FLORIDA
The University of Florida (UF) was named the #1 public university in the country by the Wall Street Journal in its “2024 Best Colleges in the US” report and is also currently among the “Top Ten Public Universities” in the U.S. News and World Report and seventh in Forbes “Colleges that Deliver a High Bang for Your Tuition Buck” (2023). The University of Florida (UF) is the state of Florida’s preeminent university, as well as the state's oldest and most comprehensive university. UF is among the nation's most academically diverse public universities and is one of only 17 public, land-grant universities that belong to the Association of American Universities. UF has 16 academic colleges offering a variety established programs for students seeking to earn undergraduate and graduate degrees. In addition to attracting over $1.25 billion in research expenditures last year, UF Faculty foster a uniquely collaborative environment that transforms potential into actual results. UF is one of the largest universities in the nation, with more than 60,000 students. A snapshot of the student body diversity statistics is available online from UF Institutional Planning and Research. Learn more about the University of Florida and what makes us great.
BENEFITS
University benefits for this position include retirement plan options, insurance benefits, paid family leave (parental and medical), tuition fee waiver program, and employee assistance program, as well as paid time off and holidays. Gainesville, Florida, has no state or local income tax.
AFFIRMATIVE ACTION/EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY
The University of Florida is an equal employment employer and is committed to non-discrimination with respect to race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity, and sexual orientation), parental status, national origin, age, disability, genetic information (including family medical history), political affiliation, military service, or other non-merit-based factors. These protections extend to all management practices and decisions, including recruitment and hiring, appraisal systems, promotions, training, and career development programs. We’re committed to attracting, hiring, and retaining top talent by valuing diversity of thought, skill, and experience. As an equal opportunity employer, we believe in fostering environments where team members feel included, valued for their differences, and empowered to do their best work. The University of Florida is a public institution and subject to all requirement under the Florida Sunshine and Public Records laws.
If an accommodation due to a hearing or speech disability is needed to apply for this position, please call 352-392-2477 University of Florida Human Resources or the Florida Relay System at 800-955-8771 (TDD).
GAINESVILLE COMMUNITY
Gainesville and the surrounding community are home to approximately 280,000 people and both the University of Florida and Santa Fe College. Beautiful natural areas, including many spring-fed lakes and rivers, are a boon for outdoor adventurers. Museums, music festivals, and major performing arts institutions round out the community's rich cultural heritage. The city is just over an hour from the Gulf of Mexico and the Atlantic Ocean. Gainesville is an award winning and innovative city, friendly to both professionals and families. The Guide to Greater Gainesville combines award winning photography and compelling articles that capture all the reasons for calling Gainesville your next home. The City of Gainesville is a progressive municipality that seeks to promote racial equity. The area has numerous opportunities for participating in community athletics and is a haven for sports fans. Jacksonville, Orlando, Tampa, Tallahassee, and St. Augustine are all within a two-hour drive.
APPLICATION PROCESS
To apply, submit
• a cover letter detailing your interest in, and qualifications for this position
• your current resume or CV
• a list of three references including their contact information (telephone number and email address)
Apply by 11:55 pm (EST) on the application close date via the Jobs at UF online application system at Job Number 535227. Applications will be reviewed as received. If you have any questions or concerns about this process, please contact Tina Marie Litchfield, George A. Smathers Libraries Human Resources Office, at tlitchfield@uflib.ufl.edu.
CLASSIFICATION: Library Associate 2
REPORTS TO: Amy Buhler, Associate Chair for the Marston Science Library
SALARY: $51,884 minimum salary; The Smathers Libraries offer a salary commensurate with experience and credentials.
The University of Florida offers a competitive benefits package including health, retirement, paid time off, discount programs, professional development and worklife support. Learn more.
JOB NUMBER: 535227 (Apply online)
DEADLINE DATE: March 31, 2025 - applications will be reviewed as received
NOTE: Typical working hours are 11:00 AM to 8:00 PM with a one-hour lunch break, Monday through Friday with some flexibility of working hours available upon consultation with supervisor.
JOB SUMMARY
The Makerspace & 3D Printing Manager oversees the staffing of the Makerspace, a public service point within Marston Science Library, as well as the UF Libraries’ 3D Printing Service. The Manager leverages excellent communication and time management skills to facilitate the balance of workloads and staffing between these two discreet yet dependent services. This position exercises a high level of authority, budgetary control, independence and initiative to make operational decisions related to these services including staffing, equipment, and space. This position possesses good working knowledge of 3D concepts, including practical knowledge of 3D printing techniques that support student and faculty research. The Manager directs services through the assessment of existing equipment, research and identification of new equipment, and creation of instruction/outreach activities associated with 3D printing and makerspace technologies. Additionally, this position provides excellent customer relations to library patrons through in-depth 3D/Makerspace consultation (via in person, phone, email, chat, etc.). The Manager also regularly collaborates and communicates with units across the UF Libraries and works with faculty and staff in other units at the University.
RESPONSIBILITIES
Operations & Fiscal Management for Marston Makerspace & 3D Services
• Manages the services associated with the Marston Makerspace and the UF Libraries’ 3D Printing Service through the development of workflows within the scope of established policies. Recommends policy changes to supervisor when appropriate.
• Supervises 4-8 student assistants (approximately 1.25 FTE) and volunteers including hiring, scheduling, training, approving time, and monitoring internal communications to ensure seamless service between shifts, and tracking repair triage.
• Conducts program assessment through the collection and analysis of statistics related to the Marston Makerspace and UF Libraries' 3D Printing Service to make evidence-based decisions regarding services, space, staffing, and equipment.
• Directs the flow and prioritization of orders in the 3D Printing Services queue. This includes operating the printers when a student is not available.
• Ensures compliance with all required training courses, updating before expiration, usually on an annual basis. Also ensure all other Makerspace and 3D employees have up to date trainings.
• Oversees and tracks spending of the MSL 3D OPS budget.
• Produces monthly transaction reports for reconciliation of the UF Libraries' 3D Printing Service fund.
• Makes allocation and purchasing decisions (in conjunction with supervisor) for the UF Libraries' 3D Printing Service fund.
• Keeps abreast of other related entities on campus (e.g. Arts & Craft Center at the Reitz Union and UF Fab Lab) and regularly refers to other complimentary services on campus and in the local community (e.g. Gainesville Hackerspace).
• Collaborates with supervisor to resolve any advanced issues.
Space & Technology Management for Marston Makerspace & 3D Services
• Manages the Marston Makerspace (Marston Science Library 100), maintaining the space and reporting issues to supervisor, the Chair of Marston, and other appropriate parties.
• Schedules student employees during open lab hours in the Marston Makerspace, approximately 25 hours each week in addition to 3D printing students based upon demand.
• Keeps up to date with associated software programs.
• Oversees the diagnosing and troubleshooting of malfunctioning makerspace and 3D technology; supervises or performs repairs. Provides preventative maintenance as needed.
• Maintains inventory and ensures that the Marston Makerspace and UF Libraries' 3D Printing Service have sufficient supplies and replacement parts.
• Coordinates updates of library websites containing information on Marston's Makerspace and 3D services.
• Designs and updates internal documentation and staff training materials related to makerspace/3D technology and workflows as needed.
Public Service & Outreach
• Provides specialized makerspace & 3D printing reference services when a student is not available or for complex requests (via in person, email, phone, chat, etc.).
• Communicates with teaching faculty assigning coursework that requires the Marston Makerspace and UF Libraries' 3D Printing Service.
• Provides tours, outreach, and instruction regarding the Marston Makerspace and 3D Printing Service to various audiences as time permits.
Other Duties
• Serves on Marston and UF Library committees as appropriate. Attends and contributes to Marston’s weekly staff meeting.
• Participates in professional development activities including workshops, classes, and conferences to upgrade tech-related and other job-related skills.
• Other duties as assigned.
QUALIFICATIONS
We value a range of experience and perspectives. Applicants are encouraged to communicate in their application materials and subsequent interview conversations how their work and other experiences satisfy the following qualifications in ways that may not be obvious. Required: High School diploma or equivalent and seven years of library, or relevant experience; or an Associate’s degree and five years of relevant experience; or a Bachelor’s degree and three years of relevant experience; or a Master’s degree and one year of relevant experience; or any equivalent combination of experience, training and/or education.
Preferred:
• Excellent customer service skills; ability to interact with all library clientele and co-workers in a professional manner
• Ability to lead teams and supervise and direct the work of others
• Strong time management skills, organization skills, and attention to detail
• Strong oral and written communication skills
• Ability to quickly and independently learn 3D printing and associated software and technology
• Knowledge of common makerspace tools and software (sewing machines, soldering irons, etc.)
• Ability to interact and collaborate effectively and professionally with colleagues to accomplish goals
• Initiative and ability to work independently with minimal supervision
• Supervisory experience
• Demonstrated analytical skills
• Flexibility, and ability to adapt and work in a rapidly changing academic environment
MARSTON SCIENCE LIBRARY
The Marston Science Library, named for Robert Q. Marston, the seventh president of the University of Florida, houses collections in agriculture, life sciences, engineering, physical sciences, mathematics, and environmental sciences. With over 2,000 seats, Marston experiences more than 2.1 million visitors per year and supports the teaching and research needs of 42 STEM departments across campus. Although the collections and reference services at Marston are focused on STEM disciplines, Marston is the most visited library on campus and is a hub of undergraduate student life across all majors. Marston has 10 library faculty and 13 staff that support a highly collaborative environment that offers an array of services, including 3D printing and the Marston Makerspace. Marston spearheads initiatives related to technology accessibility and actively works to develop partnerships with student organizations.
UNIVERSITY OF FLORIDA LIBRARIES
The libraries at the University of Florida form the largest academic information resource system in the state of Florida with seven libraries and two off-campus facilities. The George A. Smathers Libraries are comprised of six campus libraries and off-site facilities. In addition to this system, the Lawton Chiles Legal Information Center is part of the Levin College of Law. The Libraries hold over 6.27 million print volumes, 1.5 million e-books, over 197,000 full-text journals, over 1000 electronic databases, 1.3 million documents, and 1.4 million maps and images. Distinctive holdings include the Isser and Rae Price Library of Judaica, Latin American and Caribbean Collection, Baldwin Library of Historical Children’s Literature and the P.K. Yonge Library of Florida History. The Libraries maintain partnerships and participate in a variety of collaborative, international projects while engaging with the UF community. We are a member of the Association of Research Libraries (ARL) and other regional library consortia.
The library staff consists of more than 300 FTE librarians, technical/clerical staff and student assistants. The George A. Smathers Libraries are strong advocates for inclusion and intellectual freedom. The Libraries’ commitment to both is articulated in the Inclusion and Intellectual Freedom Statements.
Support for professional development is central to the Smathers Libraries. Supports include a formal mentoring program, a robust training program, release time for research and professional service, a comprehensive grants program, and funding for professional development travel.
LIBRARIES LAND ACKNOWLEDGMENT
The Smathers Libraries acknowledge that the main (Gainesville) campus of the University of Florida is located in the ancestral territory of the Potano and later the Seminole peoples. The Smathers Libraries acknowledge its obligation to honor the past, present, and future Native residents and cultures of Florida.
THE UNIVERSITY OF FLORIDA
The University of Florida (UF) was named the #1 public university in the country by the Wall Street Journal in its “2024 Best Colleges in the US” report and is also currently among the “Top Ten Public Universities” in the U.S. News and World Report and seventh in Forbes “Colleges that Deliver a High Bang for Your Tuition Buck” (2023). The University of Florida (UF) is the state of Florida’s preeminent university, as well as the state's oldest and most comprehensive university. UF is among the nation's most academically diverse public universities and is one of only 17 public, land-grant universities that belong to the Association of American Universities. UF has 16 academic colleges offering a variety established programs for students seeking to earn undergraduate and graduate degrees. In addition to attracting over $1.25 billion in research expenditures last year, UF Faculty foster a uniquely collaborative environment that transforms potential into actual results. UF is one of the largest universities in the nation, with more than 60,000 students. A snapshot of the student body diversity statistics is available online from UF Institutional Planning and Research. Learn more about the University of Florida and what makes us great.
BENEFITS
University benefits for this position include retirement plan options, insurance benefits, paid family leave (parental and medical), tuition fee waiver program, and employee assistance program, as well as paid time off and holidays. Gainesville, Florida, has no state or local income tax.
AFFIRMATIVE ACTION/EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY
The University of Florida is an equal employment employer and is committed to non-discrimination with respect to race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity, and sexual orientation), parental status, national origin, age, disability, genetic information (including family medical history), political affiliation, military service, or other non-merit-based factors. These protections extend to all management practices and decisions, including recruitment and hiring, appraisal systems, promotions, training, and career development programs. We’re committed to attracting, hiring, and retaining top talent by valuing diversity of thought, skill, and experience. As an equal opportunity employer, we believe in fostering environments where team members feel included, valued for their differences, and empowered to do their best work. The University of Florida is a public institution and subject to all requirement under the Florida Sunshine and Public Records laws.
If an accommodation due to a hearing or speech disability is needed to apply for this position, please call 352-392-2477 University of Florida Human Resources or the Florida Relay System at 800-955-8771 (TDD).
GAINESVILLE COMMUNITY
Gainesville and the surrounding community are home to approximately 280,000 people and both the University of Florida and Santa Fe College. Beautiful natural areas, including many spring-fed lakes and rivers, are a boon for outdoor adventurers. Museums, music festivals, and major performing arts institutions round out the community's rich cultural heritage. The city is just over an hour from the Gulf of Mexico and the Atlantic Ocean. Gainesville is an award winning and innovative city, friendly to both professionals and families. The Guide to Greater Gainesville combines award winning photography and compelling articles that capture all the reasons for calling Gainesville your next home. The City of Gainesville is a progressive municipality that seeks to promote racial equity. The area has numerous opportunities for participating in community athletics and is a haven for sports fans. Jacksonville, Orlando, Tampa, Tallahassee, and St. Augustine are all within a two-hour drive.
APPLICATION PROCESS
To apply, submit
• a cover letter detailing your interest in, and qualifications for this position
• your current resume or CV
• a list of three references including their contact information (telephone number and email address)
Apply by 11:55 pm (EST) on the application close date via the Jobs at UF online application system at Job Number 535227. Applications will be reviewed as received. If you have any questions or concerns about this process, please contact Tina Marie Litchfield, George A. Smathers Libraries Human Resources Office, at tlitchfield@uflib.ufl.edu.
