Terms of Reference: Makerspace Trainer
Engineering Jobs
- Impact Hub Harare
- Expires 03 Oct 2025
- Tsholotsho
- Full Time
Job Description
LOCATION: Tsholotsho
DEPARTMENT: Projects
CONTRACT TYPE: Fixed Term
BACKGROUND
The Digital Skills 4 Youth (DS4Y) project is a digital skills training project in partnership with Plan International Zimbabwe supported by the Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency (SIDA). The project aims to equip 1,680 young individuals in Zimbabwe with crucial digital and entrepreneurship skills. The overarching goal is to empower youth, with a particular emphasis on young women, enabling them to actively engage in the growing digital economy, thereby fostering sustainable income generation. This transformative 3-year project, set to span from 2023 to 2025, will be executed across 3 urban areas (Harare, Bulawayo, Mutare) and 2 rural areas (Chiredzi, Matabeleland North). Our multifaceted approach encompasses providing basic, intermediate, and advanced digital skills training, coupled with soft skills and entrepreneurship training tailored to the unique contexts and opportunities in each location. In Chiredzi and Matabeleland North, we aim to set up MakerSpaces that can add value to local produce and goods for trade at both the national and global level.
OBJECTIVES
Skills development: equip local entrepreneurs with hands on skills and knowledge in small batch manufacturing
Resource utilization: Teach effective use of available tools and materials to optimize production efficiency and product quality within the constraints of a rural setting
Innovation encouragement: Foster a culture of innovation by guiding participants in developing new product ideas and improving existing ones , tailored to local needs and market opportunities
Sustainability practices: promote sustainable manufacturing practices to minimize environmental impact and encourage the use of eco-friendly materials and methods
Community engagement: build a collaborative community around the MakerSpace, encouraging knowledge sharing, networking and support among local entrepreneurs and makers
Technical support: offer ongoing technical support and troubleshooting assistance to ensure participants can effectively operate machinery and overcome production challenges
Safety protocols: ensure adherence to safety protocols and best practices to prevent accidents and ensure a safe working environment for all users.
SCOPE OF WORK
Assessment and Planning
Conduct a needs assessment to understand the community's manufacturing experience, resources, and goals and aspirations.
Develop a customized training curriculum and schedule based on the assessment
Identify the necessary equipment, tools, and supplies for the training
Training Delivery
Provide comprehensive training on the operation of common manufacturing equipment such as CNC machines, 3D printers, laser cutters, etc.
Teach skills in material selection, part design, prototyping, and production planning
Cover topics like quality control, inventory management, and lean manufacturing principles
Facilitate hands-on workshops and project-based learning opportunities
Mentorship and Technical Assistance
Offer one-on-one coaching and troubleshooting support during and after the training
Provide guidance on setting up a small-scale manufacturing facility, including layout, workflow, and safety considerations
Connect the trainees with relevant industry contacts, suppliers, and potential customers.
Community Engagement and Sustainability
Collaborate with local stakeholders (e.g., government, businesses, educational institutions) to ensure long-term viability of the program
Assist in the development of a business plan and marketing strategy for the community's small batch manufacturing ventures
Establish a mentorship program to help train new members and share knowledge within the community
Monitoring and Evaluation
Track progress and impact of the training program through key performance indicators
Gather feedback from participants and stakeholders to continuously improve the program
Document the training process and share best practices with other communities
Duties and Responsibilities
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
Training skills and development
Conduct introductory sessions and orientations for MakerSpace users, introducing them to available tools, equipment and safety protocols.
Develop and deliver training modules on various technologies, tools and techniques in the MakerSpace
Provide hands-on training in areas such as 3-D printing, laser cutting, electronics and other relevant technologies.
Foster a learning environment that encourages skill progression and mastery.
Project Assistance, Safety and Compliance
Offer guidance and support to individuals and groups working on projects within the MakerSpace.
Assist in troubleshooting technical issues and overcoming challenges.
Enforce and educate users on safety procedures and guidelines to ensure a secure working environment. Regularly inspect and maintain equipment to uphold safety standards.
Resource Management and Documentation
Manage the inventory of materials and supplies, ensuring their availability and appropriate use.
Collaborate with MakerSpace coordinators to recommend new tools and technologies for acquisition.
Maintain accurate records of training sessions, user certifications and equipment usage. Contribute to the development of user manuals, instruction guides and documentation.
Community Engagement
Foster a sense of community within the MakerSpace by organising workshops, events and collaborative projects.
Encourage knowledge sharing and collaboration among MakerSpace users.
Qualifications and Experience
QUALIFICATIONS
Relevant knowledge in engineering or equivalent work.
Proficient in a variety of MakerSpace tools and technologies
Strong communication and interpersonal skills
Prior experience in conducting training sessions or workshops
Knowledge of safety protocols related to MakerSpace equipment
Preferred Skills
Bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering, design, project management
Experience with project-based learning and small batch manufacturing education
Ability to adapt to new technologies and stay informed about emerging trends in MakerSpace tools and equipment.
Fluent in Shona/Ndebele.
Working Conditions:
The position may involve some weekend hours to accommodate MakerSpace user schedules and events.
Please note that there is no relocation allowance associated with this posting. All relocation costs are the responsibility of the selected candidate.
How to Apply
