Our Organization
Protohaven is a nonprofit design and fabrication school built to serve the public good. Our mission is to engage people in the process of making things to enrich individual lives, build thriving communities, and contribute to a vibrant, sustainable society. Our approach mixes new technology with traditional techniques to help students and members from all walks of life create amazing projects – from innovative technology to business-building products to inspiring works of art.
About this Position
As the Program Assistant (Youth Entrepreneurship) you will work with the Youth Program Coordinator and the Executive Director to ensure the successful implementation of Protohaven’s year-round youth program, 77. During this program you will serve as a guide and mentor to two cohorts of 6 youth (each cohort runs for 6 months) who will receive equipment and entrepreneurship training. They will also come up with ideas for products that they will design, create, and then sell at events. The ability to effectively problem solve, communicate with, motivate, and uplift youth is key. In this position you will receive training on Protohaven’s equipment, but a prior knowledge of or experience with at least one area of equipment (list can be found here) would be beneficial. Additionally, experience with entrepreneurship would also be an asset.
This is a year-long part-time position that starts in mid-July and runs until June of 2024. The position may continue after that time depending on grant funding. This position reports to the Executive Director and works directly with the Youth Program Coordinator. This is an in-office position with the hours of 10am-4pm on Sat & Sun, with occasional additional hours, typically when there is an event.
Roles & Responsibilities
- Works with the Youth Program Coordinator and Executive Director to facilitate Protohaven’s year-round youth program
- Guides youth during the discovery process and assists them with determining what products to make and the best approaches to production
- Communicates with food vendor(s) to ensure delivery of snacks and meals for youth
- Provides youth with bus passes, as necessary
- Seeks out and secures vendor booths at appropriate events for youth to sell their products
- Identifies materials needed for classes and production and works with Executive Director to purchase the materials
- Attends events with youth to assist with setup, sales, and breakdown
- Creates an inclusive and engaging environment where youth feel safe and supported
- Acts as a mentor in regard to equipment usage, the maker journey, and the road to entrepreneurship
- Other duties as assigned
Qualifications
- Experience working with youth in a similar capacity (preferred, but not required)
- Passion for entrepreneurship and helping youth succeed
- Knowledge of web-based content management systems, customer relationship management systems, and social media platforms
- Excellent verbal and written communication, presentation, customer service, and organization skills
- Experience in a makerspace, manufacturing, or similar environment a plus, but not required
- Self-starter with the ability to prioritize, create timelines, and meet deadlines.
- Strong critical thinking and problem solving skills
- Cultural competence
- Ability to execute given limited time and information
- Enthusiasm for design, fabrication, and Protohaven’s mission
- Strong attention to detail
- Experience and enthusiasm engaging diverse groups
Other Requirements
- Valid PA driver’s license and a reliable vehicle
- PA child abuse, state police, and federal background clearances (Protohaven can assist with getting these, if necessary)
Details and Benefits
- Protohaven is an equal opportunity employer, and seeks to create a community diverse in race, gender, age, identity, and ability
- This is a 12-hour/week, part-time, non-exempt, grant-funded position
- Additional hours as needed and upon approval
- Hours are Sat & Sun from 10am-4pm with occasional additional hours, typically when there is an event
- Rate of pay is $25/hour
- Protohaven general membership
- Two free classes per month
To apply:
Please submit a resume and a brief introduction (no more than one paragraph) telling us why you are a good fit and why you want to work with us to hello@protohaven.org.