Robotics Program Director

Robotics Program Director
Harvard-Westlake School seeks a dynamic and experienced Robotics Program Director to lead and develop its 7–12 robotics program. This role serves as the primary leader of the high school FIRST Robotics Competition (FRC) team and provides strategic oversight of the middle school VEX Robotics program.

The Robotics Program Director is responsible for shaping the vision, structure, and student experience of the robotics program. Through mentorship, hands‑on learning, and competitive opportunities, this role fosters student growth in engineering, design, and collaborative problem‑solving. The position requires strong leadership, organizational judgment, and the ability to guide a complex, multi‑level program.

Primary Responsibilities

Lead the overall vision, direction, and growth of the 7–12 robotics program

Serve as Head Coach for the FRC team, guiding student learning in design, engineering, programming, and competition strategy

Mentor students in problem‑solving, collaboration, and iterative design processes

Establish program‑wide expectations, goals, and standards for student participation and performance

Ensure alignment between middle and high school programs to support long‑term student development

Cultivate relationships with external partners and mentors to enhance program opportunities

Program Planning & Oversight

Develop and oversee the annual robotics program plan, including key milestones, competitions, and events

Set priorities for competition participation and program activities aligned with student growth and program goals

Provide oversight of scheduling and program logistics to ensure consistency and clarity for students and families

Guide the coordination of robotics activities, events, and competition preparation

Recruit, train, and supervise assistant coaches and program support staff

Establish clear roles, expectations, and communication practices across the coaching team

Partner with colleagues and school leadership to support program success and alignment with institutional priorities

Operations & Resource Management

Develop and manage the robotics program budget, ensuring responsible stewardship of resources

Oversee use of equipment, materials, and facilities to support program needs

Support planning and coordination related to travel and competition participation

Communication & Community Engagement

Serve as the primary point of contact for robotics‑related communication

Clearly communicate program expectations, schedules, and commitments to students and families

Foster an inclusive, supportive, and high‑functioning team environment

Required Qualifications

Experience coaching or leading competitive robotics programs (FRC experience strongly preferred)

Demonstrated leadership and program management experience

Strong organizational, planning, and decision‑making skills

Ability to mentor and engage students in a hands‑on learning environment

Strong communication and interpersonal skills

Preferred Qualifications

Experience overseeing multiple teams or program levels

Technical knowledge in mechanical design, programming, electronics, or systems integration

Experience supervising staff, coaches, or volunteers

This is a part‑time position scheduled for approximately 25–30 hours per week. Evening and weekend commitments are expected during build and competition seasons, and weekly hours may vary during peak periods. Travel to local and regional competitions is required.

This role is well‑suited for someone who thrives in a dynamic, student‑centered environment and enjoys leading a complex, team‑based program.

Compensation
Anticipated base compensation is $40,000 – $60,000 annually, depending on experience. This is a part‑time, non‑benefits based, in‑person position.

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