Maker Studio Manager

Job Overview
AIMS is seeking a passionate, organized, and hands-on Maker Studio Manager to lead and grow our dynamic maker space. The ideal candidate will be a dynamic and collaborative educator with a background in the maker movement, inquiry-based learning, design thinking, and a passion for empowering youth and community members in hands-on science, technology, engineering, art, and math (STEAM) learning. The Maker Studio Manager will oversee daily operations, maintain tools and equipment, facilitate programs, and collaborate with staff, educators, and volunteers to deliver engaging maker-centered learning experiences for all ages.

Responsibilities

Studio Operations & Maintenance

• Oversee day-to-day operations of the maker studio, ensuring a safe, welcoming, and inclusive environment
• Maintain tools, equipment (e.g., 3D printers, laser cutters, electronics, sewing machines), and inventory of materials; perform troubleshooting and routine maintenance of equipment
• Organize, curate, and maintain the maker studio space and materials, incorporating sustainable practices and upcycling when possible
• Develop and enforce safety protocols and equipment usage guidelines
• Manage studio scheduling for workshops, open hours, camps, and special events

Program Development & Instruction

• Design and deliver engaging, hands-on STEAM and maker-focused programming for youth, families, and educators
• Lead workshops, afterschool programs, summer camps, and community events
• Collaborate with educational program team members, providing insights into incorporating innovation, design thinking, and making across AIMS programs
• Provide training and technical support to participants, educators, and facilitators on the safe and effective use of studio tools and software

Team & Volunteer Coordination

• Supervise and support teaching artists, interns, and volunteers working in the maker studio
• Facilitate staff and volunteer training related to maker tools, activities, and safety practices

Community Engagement, Outreach & Partnerships

• Foster a creative, collaborative maker culture with an emphasis on equity, belonging, creativity, and innovation.
• Partner with local schools, libraries, and community organizations to expand access to STEAM learning.
• Represent AIMS at community events and conferences as needed.
• Develop and lead outreach efforts to engage new audiences, raise awareness of the maker studio, and build long-term community relationships.
• Create outreach materials and collaborate with the communications team to highlight programs and success stories.

Administration & Reporting

• Manage studio budget and procurement of supplies and materials
• Track program outcomes, studio usage, and participant feedback for reporting and continuous improvement
• Contribute to grant writing, fundraising events, and communications related to maker programming

Required Qualifications

The following qualifications are required for this position:

• Bachelor’s degree in a STEAM-related discipline
• Teaching or facilitation experience with youth (ideally ages 8–18)
• Experience with makerspaces, fab labs, and design thinking in the PK-12 or similar environment
• Personal experience with tool-based making processes as well as diverse materials (wood, cardboard, paper, fabric, etc.)
• Proficiency with makerspace equipment and software (e.g., Tinkercad, 3D printers, laser cutters, microcontrollers)
• Strong attention to detail, collaborative spirit, excellent communication, interpersonal and organizational skills, awareness of issues relating to access and inclusion

Preferred Qualifications

• Master’s degree in a STEAM-related discipline
• Bilingual or multilingual abilities
• Experience in facilitating professional learning with educators
• Experience with tools and equipment currently available in the maker studio (such as: Universal Laser Cutter; Roland Vinyl Cutter; Cricut Cutter; Lilypad Arduino; Raspberry Pi; micro:bit; Circuit Playground Express; Soldering; 3D printers; Sewing, Serger, and Embroidery machines)
• Experience with community outreach, grant writing, and event coordination

Physical Requirements & Work Environment

The physical demands listed are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of the job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Physical demands include:

• Regular standing, walking, and sitting
• Occasional reaching, stooping, or kneeling
• Lifting and moving objects up to 30 pounds
• Visual and auditory acuity for communication, computer work, and tool operation

Work environment includes:

• Indoor studio/office with light to moderate noise from tools and equipment
• Occasional travel for meetings or events
• Evening or weekend hours may be required for special programming

Equal Employment Opportunity & Accommodations

AIMS is an independent 501c3 and “at-will,” equal employment opportunity employer. AIMS does not discriminate based upon race, religion, color, national origin, gender (including pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding, or any related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, status as a protected veteran, status as an individual with a disability, or other applicable legally protected characteristics. Reasonable accommodation will be made so that qualified disabled applicants may participate in the application process. If you need assistance or an accommodation due to a disability, please advise in writing of special needs at the time of application.

We strongly encourage individuals from historically underrepresented backgrounds in STEAM to apply.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $90,000.00 - $105,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Parental leave
• Relocation assistance
• Retirement plan
• Vision insurance

Application Question(s):

• Do you have prior experience working in a makerspace, fab lab, or hands-on STEAM environment?
• Are you comfortable performing routine maintenance on makerspace equipment (e.g., 3D printers, laser cutters, sewing machines)?
• This position requires occasional evening and weekend work for programs and events. Are you willing and able to work flexible hours?
• Do you have at least a bachelor’s degree in a STEAM-related discipline (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, Math)?
• How many years of experience do you have teaching or facilitating programs with youth ages 8–18?

Ability to Relocate:

• Fresno, CA 93702: Relocate before starting work (Required)

Work Location: In person