DreamLab STEM and Makerspace Specialist (Part-Time, 20 hours/week, on-site)

Description:

The Girl Scout mission is to build girls of courage, confidence, and character, who make the world a better place. Behind every Girl Scout and volunteer is a team of local staff ready to help them earn that next badge, embark on a camping adventure, or organize an impactful service project. We are Girl Scouts of Northern New Jersey (GSNNJ) serving girls in grades K-12 in Bergen, Morris, Passaic, Sussex and northern Warren counties. We bring the Girl Scout Leadership Experience to 19,000 girls and 10,200 adult members. GSNNJ is excited for the upcoming opening of its' very own DreamLab . The DreamLab is designed to become a bold, imaginative hub for sisterhood — a space where ideas ignite, friendships flourish, and limitless possibilities come to life. This dynamic new experience center will offer Girl Scouts a whole new and meaningful way to explore our four pillars — STEM, Life Skills, Entrepreneurship, and Outdoors. DreamLab will provide an innovative, hands-on learning environment where girls explore STEM, creativity, and entrepreneurship through real-world experiences. Designed as a dynamic makerspace and discovery hub, DreamLab offers programs including summer camps, workshops, field trips, and badge-based learning experiences. The DreamLab STEM and Makerspace Specialist will serve as the technical and instructional lead for all STEM and makerspace activities. This role is responsible for operating and maintaining DreamLab equipment, facilitating engaging hands-on learning experiences, and training staff to confidently and safely use all tools and technologies. This is a highly interactive role ideal for someone who is both technically skilled and passionate about working with youth. The STEM and Makerspace Specialist ensures that all DreamLab experiences are high-quality, safe, and inspiring.

Schedule:

Approximately 20 hours/week, primarily after school hours, evenings and weekends based on programming needs.

Key Responsibilities include:

STEM Program Facilitation Lead hands-on STEM and maker-based activities for girls in grades K-8 Facilitate workshops, camp sessions, field trips, and special events Adapt instruction to different age groups and learning styles Create a welcoming, inclusive, and engaging learning environment Makerspace & Equipment Leadership Operate and oversee a wide range of STEM and makerspace technologies, including digital fabrication tools, robotics systems, coding platforms, and hands-on innovation equipment (such as 3D printers, laser cutters, drones, and more) Troubleshoot equipment and resolve technical issues as they arise Ensure all equipment is used safely and appropriately Staff Training & Support Train program facilitators and seasonal staff on equipment use and safety Develop clear training guides and protocols for consistent implementation Provide ongoing coaching and support to staff during programs Program Setup & Operations Prepare materials and set up stations for daily programming Maintain an organized, clean, and fully stocked makerspace Support inventory tracking and supply needs Safety & Quality Assurance Enforce all safety procedures and best practices Ensure age-appropriate use of tools and materials Maintain a high standard of program quality and participant experience Other duties as assigned

Requirements:

Required Experience working with a wide range of STEM and makerspace technologies, including digital fabrication tools, robotics systems, coding platforms, and hands-on innovation equipment (such as 3D printers, laser cutters, drones, and more) Experience working with children or youth (education, camps, afterschool programs, or similar settings) Strong ability to explain technical concepts in simple, engaging ways Highly organized, reliable, and proactive Comfortable troubleshooting and learning new technologies quickly Membership in GSUSA is required upon employment and annually thereafter (cost covered by the Council) Preferred Background in STEM education, engineering, technology, or a related field Experience training or coaching other staff Experience designing or leading STEM curriculum or activities Familiarity with Girl Scouts programming or youth development frameworks Ideal Candidate Hands-on, curious, and enjoys building and experimenting Confident managing both technology and groups of children Patient and clear communicator who can support staff with varying skill levels Solutions-oriented and calm under pressure Passionate about expanding access to STEM opportunities for girls Girl Scouts of Northern New Jersey is an Equal Opportunity Employer, drug-free workplace, and complies with ADA regulations as applicable.