26-27 Robotics Coach

Job Title: First Tech Challenge (FTC) Robotics Coach Position Type Seasonal / Stipend Reports To Building Administrator / Activities Director Joe Maloney/ Digital Lit Director Julie Lange Position Summary The First Tech Challenge (FTC) Coach is responsible for guiding and mentoring a team of students as they design, build, program, and compete with a robot in the FIRST Tech Challenge program. The coach fosters teamwork, problem-solving, innovation, and professionalism while supporting students in developing technical and leadership skills aligned with FIRST core values. Key Responsibilities Team Leadership & Mentorship Recruit, organize, and mentor a team of students in grades ___ (typically middle or high school). Promote FIRST Core Values: Gracious Professionalism, teamwork, inclusion, and ethical competition. Guide students in project planning, time management, and collaborative problem-solving. Technical Guidance Support students in robot design, construction, testing, and iteration using FTC-approved materials. Assist with programming using FTC-supported languages (e.g., Java, Blocks). Encourage safe tool use and adherence to lab/shop safety procedures. Help students understand game rules, engineering constraints, and scoring strategies. Competition & Event Management Register the team for FTC events and competitions. Prepare students for league meets, qualifiers, and championship events. Attend competitions and supervise students during events- on 3-4 Saturdays. Ensure compliance with FTC rules, documentation, and inspection requirements. Program Management Schedule and supervise regular team meetings and build sessions. Manage inventory of tools, parts, and equipment. Assist with budgeting, fundraising, sponsorships, and grant opportunities as needed. Communicate regularly with students, parents/guardians, and school administration. Outreach & Documentation Encourage community outreach, STEM advocacy, and team promotion activities. Support students in maintaining an engineering notebook and preparing for judging interviews. Qualifications Required Ability to work positively and effectively with students. Strong organizational and communication skills. Willingness to learn FTC rules, hardware, and software. Availability during after-school hours and weekends during the competition season. Preferred Background or interest in STEM fields (engineering, computer science, robotics, or related areas). Experience with robotics, programming, or engineering design. Prior coaching, teaching, or youth mentoring experience. Familiarity with the FIRST Robotics programs. Physical & Time Requirements Ability to supervise students in a lab or workshop environment. Occasional lifting of robotics equipment (up to ~25 lbs). Time commitment varies but typically includes 2-3 meetings per week during the season plus competitions. Compensation Stipend $3,055