Upper School Robotics Associate Coach

Competition Season: January Through April

Practice Schedule: Regular participation in after-school practices, Monday through Friday, with some flexibility based on availability.

Times: 3:30 PM to 5:30 PM

Competitions: 2 - 4 weekend competitions during the competition season

Pre-Season: November - December, 2-3 days per week, with some scheduling flexibility

Stipend: $7,500

The Upper School FIRST Robotics Competition (FRC) Associate Robotics Coach plays a supportive role in guiding and mentoring a robotics team of students in grades 9-12. This position involves supporting team members in the design, construction, and programming of robots for competition in an action-packed game on a themed field as part of a three-team alliance. The coach fosters a positive and inclusive team culture, collaborates with team members to develop and refine strategies, and emphasizes critical thinking and creativity.

Essential duties include:

• Guiding and mentoring the team, promoting Gracious Professionalism and FIRST Core Values.
• Instructing and supporting team members in robot design, construction, and programming.
• Collaborating on competition strategies and emphasizing problem-solving abilities.
• Conducting practice sessions and attending weekend events, providing guidance and technical support.
• Handling administrative tasks such as managing paperwork, permission slips, and student registration.
• Ensuring activities adhere to safety guidelines and competition rules.
• Maintaining records of team activities, designs, and results.
• Assisting in fundraising and seeking sponsorship opportunities.

A good coach brings technical expertise to the team, provides opportunities for students to learn through experience, and helps build their leadership and problem-solving skills, as well as their sense of belonging and self-confidence. Mentors and coaches can come from various backgrounds, including FIRST alumni, community members, parents, teachers, professionals, and college students.

Interested applicants should apply through the SSSAS website at https://www.sssas.org/about-us/employment