Innovation Center Manager

Job Description

Job Description

Innovation Center Manager

Office of Research, Innovation & Practice

Office of the President

Tsaile Campus

Duty Schedule:

Monday-Friday, 8:00 am - 5:00 pm; evenings, and weekends as needed.

Summary/Objective of Position:

The Innovation Center Manager oversees the operation and strategic development of the new maker space in the Diné College library, Tsaile campus. Responsibilities include managing daily activities and equipment, delivering workshops on maker space tools. Will also provide instruction on small business development and IP (patents, copyrights, and trademarks). A key duty is to secure funding to ensure sustainability and support possible expansion to other Diné College sites.

Description of Essential Functions of the Position

Disclaimer: This is not necessarily an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, skills, efforts, requirements, or working conditions associated with the job. While this list is intended to be an accurate reflection of the current job, management reserves the right to revise the job or to require that other or different tasks be performed as assigned. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

STUDENT ADVISING AND COACHING SUPPORT

• Center Management:
  • Oversee all aspects of the maker space, including equipment maintenance, supply inventory, and ensuring a safe and productive environment for users.
• Workshop Development & Delivery:
  • Design, schedule, promote, and lead workshops for Diné College faculty, staff, students, and Navajo Nation community members.
  • Topics will include practical skills for using the make space equipment (e.g., 3D printers, laser cutters, machines, and educational sessions on small business development and intellectual property).
• Strategic Planning & Growth:
  • Develop and execute a strategic plan for the center's growth, including identifying and pursuing new grant opportunities and other funding sources to ensure financial sustainability.
• Intellectual Property & Small Business Support:
  • Act as a resource for the college community on intellectual property matters (patents, copyrights, and trademarks) and guide small business development, leveraging the maker space's resources.
• Outreach & Collaboration:
  • Collaborate with various departments across Diné College to integrate the maker space into academic curricula and foster a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship.
• Documentation & Reporting:
  • Maintain detailed records of center usage, workshop attendance, and grant funding activities.
  • Prepare reports on the center's impact and progress towards strategic goals.

QUALIFICATIONS

Education & Experience

Minimum:

• Bachelor's degree in a relevant field such as engineering, business, education, or library science.
• Three (3) years of experience in project management, or managing a similar facility, such as a maker space, innovation lab, or library.

Preferred:

• Master's degree in a relevant field.
• Five (5) years of project management experience or similar with a track record of working on grant-funded projects and working with IP.

Knowledge:

• Understanding of maker space technologies and equipment (e.g., 3D printing, laser cutting, robotics).
• Familiarity with intellectual property concepts, including patents, copyrights, and trademarks.
• Familiarity with grant writing and fundraising processes.

Skills:

• Excellent communication and presentation skills for conducting workshops and engaging with diverse groups.
• Proven ability to manage budgets and resources effectively.
• Strong organizational and problem-solving skills.

Abilities:

• The ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• The capacity to apply multiple skills simultaneously to manage the center, develop new programs, and secure funding.
• The ability to inspire and train others in using new technologies and embracing an innovation mindset.

Physical Requirements, Work Environment & Travel:

• The ability to lift and move equipment up to 30 lbs., stand for extended periods, and operate machinery safely.
• Work environment primarily inside the library maker space.
• Travel for conferences, workshops, or to explore other sites on Diné College.

Other Requirement(s):

• The ability to speak Navajo is valued but not required.
• Must be able to communicate effectively in a professional setting.
• Valid Driver's License.