I thought some folks might be interested in the following. The opportunity is available through the ARRA funded BTOP program at the University of Minnesota. I know nothing more about the opportunity than I’ve posted below…

University of Minnesota – Broadband Apprenticeship Position
(Classification 4912 Community Program Assistant)

The University of Minnesota invites applications for eight one-year positions as Broadband Apprentices to work on the Urban Research and Outreach/Engagement Broadband Access Project (BAP). These positions are funded by a grant from the U.S. Department of Commerce, (Award #27-42-B10003) and a $750k match from the University. BAP will enhance broadband access, awareness, and use in one new and ten existing public computer centers located in the urban cores of Minneapolis and St. Paul.

The apprentices will have an opportunity to learn marketable new technology skills that can be used to find employment in a computer lab, help center, or other jobs requiring computer knowledge after the yearlong apprenticeship ends. Broadband technology is expanding and creating opportunities for those with the skills the apprentices will acquire. Apprentices will be assigned to one of four teams that includes community residents with varying levels of technology skills and experience: those interested in technology but with little background, those with a technical school or college technology background, current computer center employees seeking additional training, and leaders with strong technology and computer lab skills.

Apprentices will receive initial and ongoing training and will augment current staff by providing computer support in the public computer labs and training community residents (using training materials provided) to use technology for internet access and to access information about education, jobs, health care, and economic and community development.

These apprenticeships will be full-time for one year; there is no guarantee of reappointment. Schedules may vary due to the hours of the computer centers. Apprentices may need to travel among the 11 computer centers, so Metropasses will be provided. The salary will be $13.78 per hour and full University benefits will be provided, including medical and dental insurance, vacation, and sick leave. The positions will begin May 1, 2010 and end April 30, 2011.

Responsibilities

Receive initial and ongoing training to be able to successfully:

o Provide technical support and other assistance to computer users to help them access the internet and other technology tools (40%)
o Train new computer users using standard training materials so they are able to meet their information and technology needs (30%)
o Help troubleshoot and fix hardware and software problems in the public computer labs (20%)
o Assist the computer center personnel with managing the lab including maintaining logs, servicing equipment, and other duties. (10%)

Required qualifications

o High school diploma or GED and two years of work experience or additional education
o Ability to write and speak English clearly enough for others to easily understand
o Experience interacting with diverse and multicultural groups
o Ability to learn technical skills, computer operations, and basic computer problem-solving, and to conduct basic computer training and assist computer users
o Ability to work cooperatively as part of a team and to take direction from supervisors and managers
o Willingness and ability to work flexible hours and to travel between computer centers in St. Paul and Minneapolis
o Must be dependable with good attendance and timeliness
o Must have the legal right to work in this country

Preferred Qualifications
In addition to the above, fluency in a second language – especially Spanish, Hmong, Somali and other languages commonly spoken in Minneapolis and St. Paul – is a plus.

APPLICATION PROCESS

Applications must be submitted on-line through the University of Minnesota Office of Human Resources Web site at www.umn.edu/ohr/employment/. Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until filled. The positions will begin as soon as possible. Use requisition number 166129 to access the online application.

A completed application packet includes a letter outlining your interest in and qualifications for the position, a resume, and the names and contact information for three professional references. A background check will be required for the person to whom the position is offered. For questions about the position please contact Kathy Yaeger at 612-624-5841 or yaeger@umn.edu. For questions about the online application process please contact Human Resources at 612-625-2000.

The University of Minnesota shall provide equal access to and opportunity in its programs, facilities, and employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression.