Upper School Robotics Assistant Coach

St. Stephen • Alexandria, VA

3d

About The Position

The Upper School FIRST Robotics Competition (FRC) Assistant Robotics Coach supports and mentors a team of students in grades 9–12 as they design, build, and program robots for competition. The role helps students prepare for an action-packed game on a themed field as part of a three-team alliance. The coach encourages critical thinking, creativity, collaboration, leadership, hands-on learning, and a positive, inclusive team culture while supporting the team’s strategies and development. Coaches may bring experience from a variety of backgrounds, including FIRST alumni, community members, parents, teachers, professionals, and college students.

The competition season runs January through April, with after-school practices Monday through Friday from 3:30 PM to 5:30 PM and two to four weekend competitions. Pre-season runs November through December, with meetings two to three days per week; the schedule is negotiable. The stipend is $5,000.

Responsibilities

• Support and mentor students while promoting Gracious Professionalism and FIRST Core Values.
• Provide consistent adult supervision during practices, particularly when students use power tools and other shop equipment.
• Assist students with robot design, construction, programming, and troubleshooting in areas aligned with the coach’s experience and expertise.
• Encourage student problem-solving, collaboration, leadership, and hands-on learning.
• Attend weekend competitions and events and help supervise and support team members.
• Assist with competition-day activities and team logistics as needed.
• Ensure students follow school safety guidelines and FIRST competition rules.
• Collaborate with the Head and Associate Coaches to support a positive, inclusive, and productive team environment.
• Help students develop leadership and problem-solving skills, belonging, and self-confidence.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Part-time
• Education Level: No Education Listed