FIRST Tech Challenge Robotics Teams Assistant Coach

(Part-Time; 10-12 hours per week; Begins as Soon as Possible through May 2026)

Francis W. Parker School is a renowned JK-12th grade independent day school. Founded in 1901 on the tenets of progressive education, the school currently enrolls 940 students and employs 200 dedicated faculty and staff members who, in addition to assistant teachers, substitute teachers and coaches, work together to ensure that the School lives up to its Mission to “educate students to think and act with empathy, courage and clarity as responsible citizens and leaders in a diverse democratic society and global community.”

We are currently seeking a dynamic, innovative and experienced Assistant Coach for our FIRST Tech Challenge (FTC) Robotics teams. Each team is composed of 10-15 student participants. This is a hands-on mentoring opportunity where the Assistant Coach will work with Upper School students in team building activities and engineering a robot for competition. Program initiatives are supported by the head coach, faculty, staff and other mentors.

This position averages 10-12 hours per week for approximately 30 weeks during the school year. Additional time will be required prior to and during large competitions.

Essential Functions:

• Oversee two weekly after school work sessions, weekly Saturday work sessions and competition events.
• Mentor and guide students through the process of researching, designing, building, programming, testing and driving robots for use in competitions.
• Foster and manage teamwork skills.
• Attend anywhere from 4 to 7 robotics competitions.
• Attend monthly mentor meetings.
• Other duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications:

• Affinity and enthusiasm to work with adolescents.
• Ability to communicate with Upper School students and adult mentors, as well as parents and administration.
• Substantial experience with FIRST Robotics as either a participant or mentor.
• Comprehensive knowledge of FIRST Robotics competition culture, rules, and game format.
• Specialized knowledge and experience in engineering and/or programming.
• Ability to demonstrate, model and guide students through the engineering process.
• Ability to demonstrate leadership skills with student team members and adult mentors.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Substantial programming experience
• Substantial CAD experience
• FIRST Robotics coaching experience
• 3D printing, laser cutting, and part fabrication experience

Compensation:

Approximately $24/hour; this position is not eligible for benefits

To Apply:
Please click here to submit your application (no telephone inquiries please).

The faculty, staff and administration of Francis W. Parker School are integral parts of the School's community. Through their passion, dedication and commitment to the School's mission, they create and support an environment where exceptional child-centered learning can occur.

Francis W. Parker School is committed to cultivating a community of dedicated students, parents, faculty and staff, trustees, administrators and alumni, who acknowledge, respect, and esteem diversity in our school; and who reflect, through their presence, the diversity of Chicago communities and the wider world.

Francis W. Parker School is an equal opportunity employer.

About Francis W. Parker School

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