First Robotics Competition Coach

Uncommon Schools; Newark (NJ); On-site; USD 5,000 - 7,000; Part time

Job summary

Uncommon Schools in Newark is seeking a part-time First Robotics Competition coach to mentor students at Washington Park High School. The coach will lead practice sessions and competitions to enhance students' skills and prepare for college admissions.

This position offers an annual stipend of $5,000 to $7,000 based on experience. Ideal candidates have prior experience in FRC or similar activities and will be instrumental in fostering a supportive environment for the team.

Qualifications

• Experience in guiding students in robotics or similar activities.
• Preference for candidates who competed in FRC while in high school.

Responsibilities

• Lead robotics practices and competitions for students.
• Prepare students for regional and district competitions.
• Communicate with families regarding practices and commitments.

Job description

Job Description

Overview

We are seeking an experienced First Robotics Competition (FRC) coach to guide a team at Washington Park High School. On our students' paths to and through college, nationally recognized competitive programs provide an edge for college admissions, but also for college persistence. The coach will lead a "Project," a class that meets twice a week for two hours, and continue work into after-school hours. During build season, the coach will work with students for several hours after school and on weekends to prepare for competition. Candidates who competed in FRC while in high school are preferred. The coaching role is part‑time and will report to the Enrichment Program Manager.

Responsibilities

Preparation & Practice Time:

• Up to 2 hours per week preparing for Projects, competitions, and after school practices.
• Fall Semester Practices: 4 hours a week total
  • Long‑term coaching during "Projects": Meet with students Tuesdays and Thursdays, 1 hour each day, from August to June.
  • Continue practices after school on Tuesdays and Thursdays, 1 hour each day.
• Build Season (January - April): 8 hours a week total
  • Long‑term coaching during "Projects": Meet with students Tuesdays and Thursdays, 1 hour each day, from August to June.
  • At least 6 hours of practice outside of school hours weekly, working directly with students to prepare for competition. Practices will continue into after school on Tuesdays and Thursdays and additional practice hours are required on other days of the week, in line with the after‑school schedule at the school.
• Spring (April-June): 2 hours a week total
  • During Projects, wrap up the competition year, inventory and order new materials, prepare student leaders for the following year, and begin recruitment of new team members.

Competitions

• Register for and participate in the off‑season competition.
• Register for and participate in at least one regional/district competition.

Family Communication

• Because of the significant time required for after‑school practices, the school-based Student Talent Manager and coaches identify team members and confirm commitment via signed parent permission form indicating after‑school commitment.
• In partnership with the school-based Student Talent Manager, establish a family communication protocol using the Remind app to update families about competition, after‑school practices, and any other time outside of school that students will be doing club‑related activities.

Additional Information

Our people are what make us Uncommon.

Compensation

Coaches will receive an annual stipend of $5,000-$7,000 based on experience and contracted hours per week, paid semi‑monthly.

If at any point during the year, you stop performing these responsibilities before they are fully completed, for any reason, your stipend will be adjusted in accordance.

At Uncommon, we believe that a supportive and welcoming environment helps our students, staff, and community thrive. We are dedicated to building a team that brings a wide range of perspectives and experiences, reflective of the communities we serve—with over 70% of our staff identifying as people of color. Our organization values respect and open dialogue on important topics that shape our school culture.

As an equal opportunity employer, Uncommon provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. We also ensure that individuals with disabilities receive all privileges and benefits associated with employment and are provided reasonable accommodations for the interview process and to perform core job functions. If you would like to request an accommodation, please email [e-mail].