Workforce Development Technician at Huntsville-Madison County Public Library – Huntsville, Alabama

POSITION TITLE: Library Technician I – Workforce Development

The Huntsville-Madison County Public Library is a non-profit library system comprised of ten locations providing library and information services to the city of Huntsville and the surrounding Madison County area. HMCPL is seeking a Library Technician I to provide instruction and assistance to the public as a part of the Workforce Development Lab, which offers library users access to resources and equipment to improve workforce skills and gain knowledge in various employment areas, as well as a variety of instructional classes.

The ideal candidate will be organized, a strong communicator, passionate about libraries and literacy, and excited to connect the community with resources, services, and events to engage and encourage exploration, creativity, and learning.

Library Location:

North Huntsville Public Library

3011 Sparkman Drive NW

Huntsville, AL 35810

Operating Hours:

Mondays through Thursdays - 9am to 8pm

Fridays and Saturdays - 9am to 5pm

Sundays - 1pm to 5pm

HOURS AND COMPENSATION: This is a full-time, 30 hours a week position with a pay rate of $17.00 an hour. Benefits offered include health insurance, dental insurance, vision insurance, life insurance, long-term and short-term disability, and MPP and 457(b) retirement plan options. General schedule will require 1-2 Nights a week and 1-2 Weekends a month (see location hours above). Scheduling flexibility is required.

GENERAL STATEMENT OF DUTIES:

Responsible for planning, scheduling, promotion, and implementation of programming for the Workforce Development Lab. Assists library patrons in utilizing the Workforce Development Lab resources, programs, and partnership opportunities. This includes but not limited to providing one-on-one assistance for job seekers, presenting computer classes based on widely used software such as Microsoft Office Suite and Google packages. Acts as an advocate and spokesperson for the Library’s workforce development programming and initiatives. This position is classified as Exempt for the purposes of the Fair Labor Standards Act.

Work involves responsibility for the library’s workforce development lab and equipment, including computers. Provides workforce development related customer service and training to the public and other staff members. Assists in maintaining reports and statistics relating to lab use and program attendance.

SUPERVISION RECEIVED: Works under the direction of the branch manager and/or the Makerspace Librarian.

SUPERVISION EXERCISED:

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

Teamwork & Leadership:

• Acts as a team member in fulfilling the Library’s Mission Statement: “This is the public’s library. We empower individuals to create their own futures, explore the universe of ideas, and connect with our community and the world.”
• May train and supervise paraprofessional or entry-level staff in specific tasks.

Customer Service:

• Acts as an expert for patrons using the workforce development lab facility and equipment.
• Responds to telephone, electronic, and in-person requests for information and assistance at public service desks.
• Mediates and deescalates customer complaints and dissatisfaction with library resources, materials, and services when required; refers complex and/or high-level complaints to supervisor when appropriate.

Professionalism & Communication:

• Participates in system-wide committees, boards, projects, meetings, and initiatives as needed.
• Develops and maintains partnerships with other agencies and non-profit organizations that offer training and resources that will enhance workforce skills.

Library Programming:

• Responsible for the planning, scheduling, and teaching of courses in pertaining to workforce development, including resume building, job searching, workforce skills and certifications, etc. for the general public and other staff.
• Presents courses and provides training for the public and staff regarding the use of computers including e-Readers and their various software programs, in person and by telephone, or via email.
• Oversees the research and development of innovative classes and community partnerships to grow the library’s appeal and relevance.

Specialized Expertise:

• Remains current in changing technology and collaborates with the library’s Technology Training Center to develop courses and training offerings.
• Monitors the Workforce Development Lab and assists patrons in the basic use of Lab computers when no classes are being held.
• Travels to other library locations to assist with programming and outreach as assigned.

OTHER JOB FUNCTIONS:

Participates in special projects and performs other duties as assigned

PHYSICAL DEMANDS: Requires standing, walking, reaching, climbing, stooping, and lifting/carrying items generally not exceeding 40 pounds. Must possess the mobility to carry supplies and deliveries over uneven terrain. Must possess the vision required to read printed materials and a computer screen. Must possess the ability to hear and speak both in person and over the telephone. Physical dexterity is required including hand-to-eye coordination and manipulative skills congruent with the operation of machines, carts, and tools. Finger dexterity is needed to access, enter, and retrieve data using a computer. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals to perform the essential functions.

WORK ENVIRONMENT: Generally involves everyday risks or discomforts which require normal safety precautions typical of office environments. Involves use of specialized machinery which may require additional caution and/or exposure to risk. May interact with upset staff and/or members of the public.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:

Knowledge and experience in installing and troubleshooting software and hardware configurations; knowledge of basic programming and one board computers such as Arduinos, raspberry pi, etc. ; ability to understand and carry out instructions furnished in both written, oral, or diagrammatic form; ability to design and deliver training courses and curriculum for use with makerspace equipment; ability to safely and correctly operate a variety of tools; ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with superiors, subordinates, associates, corporate representatives, officials of other agencies, and the general public; ability to communicate effectively with coworkers and supervisors.

EXPERIENCE AND TRAINING:

High school diploma from a school accredited by a regional accrediting agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education or GED certificate issued by the appropriate state agency plus one (1) or more years additional experience in with 3D modeling, CAD, or maker role; or any combination of education, training, and experience which provides a demonstrated potential for performing the above listed duties of the position is required.

A valid driver’s license and good driving record is required.

This job description is not nor is it intended to be a complete state of all duties, functions, and responsibilities that comprise this position. Employees may be expected to perform additional duties that may not be reflected in this description.

The Huntsville-Madison County Public Library is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Revised: 05/2021