About Decatur Makers

Decatur Makers is a nonprofit community makerspace dedicated to cultivating a diverse community of makers by providing access to tools, resources, and hands-on education in a supportive environment. Our members range from hobbyists to entrepreneurs, artists to engineers, all sharing a commitment to creativity and collaboration.

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Position Overview

The Makerspace & Volunteer Manager is an onsite leadership role responsible for the daily operational health of the makerspace. This position oversees building condition, internal volunteer programs, maintenance coordination, and overall space standards.

This is both a systems and people-centered role. We are looking for someone who genuinely enjoys being around others, delights in empowering volunteers, and can maintain high operational standards in a collaborative community environment.

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Core Responsibilities

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Building and Operational Ownership

• Conduct regular walkthroughs to monitor cleanliness, safety, and functionality

• Track equipment condition and maintenance needs

• Monitor and reorder essential supplies and consumables

• Coordinate improvement projects and work days

• Maintain a clean, safe, and welcoming environment
   

Internal Volunteer Management

Develop, manage, and sustain operational volunteer teams that support the functionality of the makerspace. Programs may expand or contract based on organizational needs and typically focus on:

• Communication and member support

• Tool area oversight and stewardship

• Maintenance and preventative care

• Facility improvement and optimization

• Recruit, encourage, and empower volunteers so they feel supported, valued, and equipped to contribute meaningfully to the community.
   

Maintenance Coordination

• Log and prioritize maintenance needs

• Assign and coordinate work with the Makerspace Technician and maintenance volunteers

• Track follow-through to ensure issues are resolved

• Personally address minor repairs when qualified to do so
   

Working Knowledge of the Space

• Develop a functional understanding of all major tool areas

• Understand common workflows, safety considerations, and typical equipment issues

• Know when and who to consult for technical expertise

• Not expected to be an expert in every tool area, but capable of informed coordination
   

Open Build Nights

• Coordinate and oversee Open Build Nights

• Ensure volunteer coverage and operational readiness

• Serve as a welcoming and steady presence during these community-focused evenings
   

Policy and Standards

• Uphold member handbook standards

• Carry out procedures when policies are violated

• Document and communicate incidents as needed
   

Schedule Expectations

This is a part-time onsite role averaging 20 hours per week. The schedule will include a mix of weekday, evening, and occasional weekend hours to support makerspace operations.

Regular Wednesday evening availability is required to oversee Open Build Nights.

Specific weekly hours will be determined collaboratively based on operational needs and the selected candidate’s availability.
 

Qualifications

• Experience leading or coordinating volunteers

• Strong interpersonal and communication skills

• Ability to hold standards respectfully and consistently

• Comfort working in a hands-on, tool-based environment

• Familiarity with workshop environments or makerspaces preferred
   

What We Are Looking For

• A genuine people person who enjoys building relationships

• Someone who delights in empowering others and helping volunteers succeed

• A proactive and observant leader

• A systems thinker who anticipates needs

• A calm, steady presence who can balance structure with community culture
   

Compensation

$20 to $25 per hour based on experience.
Part-time, approximately 20 hours per week.
 

How to Apply

Interested candidates should complete the application form below and upload:

• Resume

• Brief cover letter outlining your interest in the role and relevant experience
   

We are aiming to fill this position by April 1, and applications submitted prior to that date will receive priority consideration.

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.

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Decatur Makers is an equal opportunity employer. We value diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees and volunteers.