Jobs

The Philadelphia Robotics Coalition seeks to hire a full-time Program Coordinator who will work with the Program Manager and other staff to provide training and support to robotics coaches and teams, and to support the planning and execution of robotics events. Please review the application requirements in full. Applicants who do not submit all requested materials may not be considered.

ABOUT THE COALITION
The Philadelphia Robotics Coalition has a vision that every Philadelphia public school student will have access to a high-quality robotics program in their school or community. Our mission is to build an ecosystem that supports the next generation of STEM and community leaders through skills development, collaboration, and mentorship. We seek to drive equity and diversity within STEM education.

Coalition robotics teams participate in the FIRST program (“For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology”), which is a global network with a progression of team-based robotics challenges. Robotics’ interdisciplinary model combines computer programming, mechanical and electrical engineering, and applied mathematics, as well as design and manufacturing. The competitive, team-based approach develops students’ ability to collaboratively problem-solve, communicate effectively, and develop leadership capacity. The combination of technical and life skills creates a learning environment that leads to success in college, career, and life.

The Coalition partners with under-resourced Philadelphia public schools that would otherwise be unable to afford robotics programs. Our core program helps schools launch and sustain their own after school robotics teams through administrative support, team funding, tools and supplies, coach training, and mentorship. The Coalition also hosts FIRST competitions and events for the entire region. Coalition programs increase access for those historically left out of the STEM pipeline, including low-income youth, BIPOC youth (Black, indigenous, and/or people of color), and women/girls. The Coalition was launched as a project by high school students in 2016, and incorporated as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization in 2018. We have robust partnerships with the School District of Philadelphia, Naval Surface Warfare Center Philadelphia Division, Pennsylvania FIRST Robotics, FIRST Mid-Atlantic, and numerous schools and organizations that make our programs possible.

ABOUT THE POSITION
The Program Coordinator reports to the Program Manager. The Coordinator shall work collaboratively
with the Program Manager and other staff to:
● Provide email, telephone, or in-person advice, guidance, and information to coaches to promote team success.
● Maintain regular communication with coaches to monitor and support team activities virtually and in-person.
● Assist in planning and delivering coach training.
● Assist in planning and executing Coalition events.
● Monitor team mentorship needs, mentor availability, and mentor engagement.
● Maintain coach, participant, and Coalition databases
● Demonstrate growth mindsets by creating a work environment that is supportive, positive, highly collaborative, and open to giving and receiving constructive feedback.

The position requires a commitment to community-building and a passion for bringing ideas to life. Candidates should have experience with youth based programs, STEM education, and/or Philadelphia public schools. Candidates must have excellent oral and written communication skills, excellent computer skills, which includes knowledge of spreadsheets, Google drive, etc., comfort with and some experience working with K-12 students and adults. Experience with FIRST Tech Challenge or FIRST LEGO League robotics programs or similar is a plus. Post-secondary educational experience (degree/s, coursework, certificate program, etc.) is preferred. This position requires significant weekend and evening work.

Starting salary is $45,000–$50,000 per year, based on experience, with PTO, flexible hours, and partial work-from-home opportunities. Benefits include health and disability insurance and a retirement contribution of 7% of salary. Position requires being present in Philadelphia and able to travel around the city to visit schools. Clearances/background checks mandatory, per Pennsylvania school laws.

TO APPLY
To apply, please submit the following material to jobs@roboticscoalition.org:
● A cover letter describing your interest in this position and how it connects with your qualifications and experience
● A resume
● 3 references

The Coalition is committed to building a diverse team that represents our student participants. We strongly encourage applications from BIPOC, women, LGTBQ individuals, and other under-represented communities. The Philadelphia Robotics Coalition does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, age, creed, religion, sex, sexual orientation, ancestry, national origin, disability, or gender identity.