Full-Time Robotics Coach And Part-Time Computer Science Teacher

Upper Campus (Grades 7-12) Robotics Coach and Part-Time Computer Science Teacher

POSITION SUMMARY:

Pinewood School seeks a dedicated and innovative individual to serve in a dual role as a Robotics Coach and a Part-Time Computer Science Teacher for the 2024-25 academic year. This unique position offers the opportunity to inspire and guide students through the challenges and rewards of both competitive robotics and computer science education. The ideal candidate will be committed to fostering an environment that nurtures learning, innovation, and personal growth in students from grades 7 through 12.

ROLES & RESPONSIBILITIES:

Robotics Coach:

As the Robotics Coach, you will oversee the entire FIRST Robotics program at Pinewood School, guiding students through the exciting journey of the FIRST Robotics Competition (FRC). Your role is pivotal in creating an environment where students are safe, productive, and engaged, learning valuable skills in teamwork, problem-solving, and technical proficiency. Through your leadership, students will compete in robotics competitions and grow as individuals and team members, ready to tackle future challenges. Note that Pinewood has had a competitive FRC program for several years. This program has historically been supported by a combination of parent and outside volunteers and a part-time staff member. Due to institutional growth in various tech and engineering programs, especially with robotics, we seek an individual to take over the leadership of the robotics program.

• FRC Season Planning and Execution: Organize and supervise the FRC build season and team organization, ensuring tasks are available for all students, including safe manufacturing practices.

• Jr. High Robotics Club: Managing an after-school Jr. High (7th/8th grade) robotics club that works with both VEX EXP and BotBall.

• Technical Skills: Specific technical skills in programming, wiring, and mechanical design are not initially required, but a qualified candidate should have a solid grounding in some of these areas and a keen interest in developing knowledge in these areas over time.

• Mentor Coordination: Develop and coordinate a team of adult part-time staff and volunteer mentors, leveraging their expertise to build a robust, supported program.

• Financial Management: Keep accurate records of expenditures and manage the robotics program's budget.

• Competition Preparation: Manage logistics for competitions, including when necessary accommodation and transportation.

• Safety and Conduct: Lead discussions on build season protocols, safety procedures, and team conduct.

• Creative Direction: Oversee the team's thematic elements, including artwork and team apparel.

Computer Science Teacher:

• Course Instruction: Teach one to two computer science courses each semester for students in grades 7 through 12, adapting the curriculum to meet diverse learning needs.

• Curriculum Development: Develop and implement comprehensive Computer Science and Engineering Technology curricula and lessons, ensuring the curriculum is engaging, current, and promotes a deep understanding of computer science and engineering principles.

• Professional Development: Actively pursue professional growth opportunities to stay abreast of the latest developments in Computer Science, Engineering, and Technology.

• Lab Maintenance: Oversee the upkeep and maintenance of computer and maker labs as related to your courses, ensuring resources are well-organized and conducive to learning.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

• Ability to spend long hours in stationary positions, using computers and office equipment

• Ability to communicate/exchange information accurately and effectively with others in person and on the phone

• Ability to work indoors and outdoors

• Ability to lift up to 20 lbs.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Engineering or related field

• Solid understanding of Computer Science, Engineering, Design, and Technology educational methods

• Demonstrated knowledge of computer science and engineering technology

• Interest in learning and teaching programming languages and robotics concepts

• Ability to travel occasionally for Robotics competitions

• Ability to work some evenings and weekends for Robotics Coach role

• Proficiency in using macOS and iPadOS

• Experience teaching at the middle or high school level is preferred

• Experience working in First Robotics FRC/FTC or similar robotics spaces is preferred

• Enthusiasm for adopting new technologies and methodologies relevant to the curriculum

• Familiarity with and/or the ability to learn and teach using block-based programming language(s)

• Familiarity with and/or the ability to learn and teach text-based programming language(s)

• Experience with the Schoology Learning Management System is preferred

COMPENSATION & BENEFITS:

Salary range is $81,390-$144,300 annually. Pinewood offers comprehensive benefits to employees. Our benefits include medical insurance, dental insurance, vision insurance, a retirement plan with an employer match, life insurance, and more. Pinewood promotes a healthy work-life balance among our community by offering employees a generous holiday and PTO policy that includes school breaks during the academic year. Find a full list of our employee benefits here.

HOW TO APPLY:

Please send your resume, a letter outlining your interest and qualifications in the position, and three professional references to Bill Bates, Director of Technology, at bbates@pinewood.edu by April 19, 2024 with the subject line: Robotics Coach and Computer Science Teacher.

Requirements / Qualifications

Requirements / Qualifications