Talk about Tech: FabLab Volunteer

Position Title: Fab Lab Volunteer

Supervisor: Fab Lab Technical & Education Manager

Goal or Purpose of the Position:

• • Kamin Science Center connects people and science, igniting curiosity that endures for a lifetime.
  • Fab Lab is a digital fabrication laboratory for innovation and invention. It's a workshop for learning and dreaming: a place to play, create, discover, mentor, invent. Work with our staff to demonstrate the capabilities of our design software, 3D printers, laser cutters, vinyl cutters, and milling machines. At Fab Lab KSC, we don’t just make cool things, we make makers. Help museum visitors troubleshoot projects and aid staff in setup and maintenance of equipment. Volunteers work on-site in the Fab Lab or elsewhere on the KSC campus.

Responsibilities:

• • Greet visitors in a friendly manner.
  • Interact with visitors in a manner appropriate to the Kamin Science Center and Fab Lab.
  • Gain familiarity with training materials and equipment associated with the Fab Lab.
  • Answer basic questions about KSC and the Fab Lab.
  • Assist staff with Fab Lab classes, demonstrations, and equipment. This includes hands-on STEM demonstrations during open hours and assisting with 101-style certification classes and project workshops in the Fab Lab.
  • Responsible for all materials in Volunteer manual and Fab Lab team manual, safety and call off procedures, visitor interaction protocols, and others as assigned.
  • Assist with opening and closing procedures as needed.

Time Commitment:

• • Minimum 4-hour per week+ mandatory orientation. Daytime, weekend, and/or evening shifts may be available. Volunteers are required to commit to one 4-hour shift/week at the same time on the same day. Exceptions can be made with prior Supervisor consent.

Qualifications:

Required:

• • Must have ability to move about Fab Lab as needed to assist guests. The Fab Lab is designed to be accessible, and Fab Lab staff will be happy to alter setup to suit different mobility needs.
• Must be comfortable speaking to visitors.
• Best fit for applicants interested in STEM/STEAM, Informal Education, Science Communication and/or working with children/families.

Desired:

• Knowledge of makerspace and equipment including 3D printers, laser cutters, vinyl cutters, and/or milling machines. Candidates without this experience are welcome to apply and must be willing to learn how to use this equipment.
• Interest and desire to improve presentation or other workplace skills.
• Able to lift up to 35lbs.

Work Location:

• • Kamin Science Center

Volunteer Benefits:

• • Free Parking
  • Museum Discounts

Clearances

• • Upon acceptance into the program, all volunteers are required to provide and pay for background checks and clearances. Act 33 and 34 Clearances are free for volunteers.
  • Volunteers who have lived in Pennsylvania for at least 10 years must have their Child Abuse History Clearance (Act 33) and Criminal Record Check Clearance (Act 34).
  • Volunteers who have lived in Pennsylvania for less than 10 years must have their Child Abuse History Clearance (Act 33) and Criminal Record Check Clearance (Act 34) plus an FBI Fingerprint Clearance (Act 114).