Description

Position Description

Tynkertopia, a nonprofit STEAM Community Center in Flagstaff, AZ, is seeking an enthusiastic, forward-thinking Digital Innovation Manager to lead our new Tynkertopia MakerSpace—a vibrant hub for teens and young adults (ages 14–26) to explore emerging technologies, develop 21st-century skills, and access career readiness pathways.

This is a hands-on, high-impact role ideal for a passionate educator or technologist who believes in the power of youth, equity in STEAM access, and learning by doing. They will be responsible for designing and delivering tech-rich programs, maintaining cutting-edge equipment, mentoring young innovators, and helping build a tech-forward, inclusive MakerSpace culture from the ground up.

The Digital Innovation Manager will lead the technology-based programs and operations of Tynkertopia MakerSpace, empowering participants to explore digital creativity, innovation, and 21st-century skills. This role integrates tools such as 3D printing, laser cutting, robotics, coding, digital media, cloud computing, and artificial intelligence into engaging, hands-on learning experiences that inspire problem-solving, creativity, and workforce readiness. Working closely with the MakerSpace Learning Manager, the Digital Innovation Manager helps cultivate a dynamic, inclusive environment where technology, innovation, a maker mindset, and community intersect.

They design and facilitate beginner-friendly workshops, short courses, and open lab sessions in areas like 3D design and printing, coding and game development, robotics, digital art, and AI applications. They create learning pathways for teens and young adults that build technical confidence over time and support participants in earning industry-recognized certifications. As a mentor and role model, they guide youth through independent and collaborative projects, helping them develop skills for creative careers—such as building digital portfolios, designing websites or apps, or programming custom smart devices.

Beyond programming, the Digital Innovation Manager oversees the Tynkertopia MakerSpace technology infrastructure, ensuring safe and equitable access to equipment while maintaining cybersecurity and software systems. They also help expand access to underrepresented youth by partnering with local schools, community organizations, and colleges, ensuring that all STEAM opportunities are culturally responsive, inclusive, and empowering. The Digital Innovation Manager contributes to program evaluation, documentation, and outreach, sharing youth stories and data that demonstrate Tynkertopia’s impact on Flagstaff’s next generation of innovators.

Key Strategic, Operational, Educational, and Community-facing Responsibilities

• Work closely with the Tynkertopia Executive Director to achieve the mission and vision of Tynkertopia MakerSpace
• Provide overall leadership and management of Tynkertopia MakerSpace and its team.
• Participate in strategic planning processes to set goals, establish priorities, and develop action plans for improving educational outcomes and organizational effectiveness.
• Create a learning environment that inspires students to develop confidence as independent, lifelong learners and expand their inquiry, creativity, and STEAM skills.
• Address challenges proactively, making informed decisions and taking action to support smooth operations and continued growth.
• Demonstrate professionalism and a welcoming attitude when interacting with visitors, community members, and other nonprofit organizations.
• Build relationships and engage teens and young adults from Flagstaff and Northern Arizona in meaningful STEAM learning.
• Maintain a safe, clean, and engaging facility conducive to hands-on learning.

Personal Attributes

Highly qualified applicants will exhibit the following personal attributes that reflect the Tynkertopia ethos and the collaborative, youth-centered nature of Tynkertopia MakerSpace:

• Creativity and curiosity: Approaches challenges with imagination, openness, and a maker’s mindset; continually seeks new ways to inspire learning.
• Collaborative spirit: Works seamlessly with the Executive Director, the MakerSpace Learning Manager, volunteers, and community partners to create interdisciplinary programs.
• Youth-centered and inclusive: Demonstrates empathy, patience, and understanding when working with teens and young adults of diverse backgrounds, experiences, and abilities.
• Positive energy and enthusiasm: Brings contagious excitement for learning, making, and exploration that motivates participants.
• Adaptability and flexibility: Thrives in a dynamic, ever-changing environment where projects evolve and resources vary.
• Strong communication skills: Listens actively, gives clear instructions, and communicates effectively with participants, colleagues, and the public.
• Organization and reliability: Balances creative spontaneity with responsible planning, safety awareness, and attention to detail.
• Commitment to equity and access: Champions inclusivity, ensuring that all participants feel welcome and empowered to learn and create.
• Mentorship mindset: Guides youth in developing independence, confidence, and problem-solving skills through hands-on learning.

What We Offer

• A creative, collaborative, and mission-driven environment
• Access to cutting-edge tools and professional development
• Opportunities to shape our new, youth-driven Tynkertopia MakerSpace from the ground up
• Room for professional growth
• Deep community engagement and the chance to change lives through innovation
• Some evening and weekend hours
• Paid vacation time
• No medical benefits at this time

Requirements

Required Qualifications 

• 
  A bachelor’s or master’s degree in a STEAM field (e.g., Computer Science, Educational Technology, Engineering, Digital Media) OR equivalent experience.
• Three or more years’ experience teaching, mentoring, or facilitating technology-based learning—with teens and/or young adults.
• Solid working knowledge of three or more of the following: Python, HTML/CSS, Arduino, Unity, AWS, AI, TinkerCAD, Scratch, Fusion360, etc.
• Strong interest in working with diverse youth and young adults ages 14–26.
• Passion for technology as a tool for creativity, empowerment, and social impact.
• Organized, flexible, and able to manage multiple programs simultaneously.
• Familiarity with principles of positive youth development, universal design for learning, and a mindset emphasizing creativity, hands-on problem-solving, and a growth-oriented, can-do attitude towards challenges.
• Excellent communication and problem-solving skills.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with digital fabrication tools like laser cutters, vinyl cutters, or CNC machines.
• Background in workforce development, career readiness, or certification pathways.
• Bilingual in Spanish or Navajo.

How to Apply

Send your résumé, a letter of intent, and (if available) a portfolio or examples of relevant technology or MakerSpace projects or programs to the contact listed in this posting. Please include Digital Innovation Manager in the subject line.