VEX/ First Robotics Competition Assistant

The VEX/FRC Assistant supports students and faculty with their learning activities in the high school maker space, works closely with the Computer Science and Engineering (CSE) teachers and the Director of Education Technology to make sure pupils enjoy learning in a safe and caring setting.

Essential duties and responsibilities

1. Planning and Preparation

1. Demonstrating knowledge of the SSIS Mission, Core Values, and Curriculum Framework

2. Demonstrating knowledge of high school faculty, staff, and students

3. Understand instructional outcomes for learning experiences with making and coding and help communicate them to students

4. Demonstrate knowledge of making tools and techniques, electronics, and coding related resources within the school and Vietnam

5. Demonstrate high school level knowledge of science, technology, engineering, and science

6. Contribute to the design of learning experiences in making, electronics, and coding

7. Contribute to the creation of student assessments in making, electronics, and coding

8. Work closely with and support the CSE Teachers

2. Classroom Environment

1. Contribute to a positive maker space and school environment, including assisting children with practical or interpersonal situations and supporting positive behavior throughout the school.

2. Contribute to a culture of academic excellence, particularly in the maker space.

3. Establish and support classroom procedures to ensure smooth management of the maker space and related facilities.

4. Manage student behavior: supervise and help students learn respectful and safe behavior in the maker space.

5. Enhance the learning environment of the maker space: prepare lesson supplies/materials/equipment, repair and maintain equipment, display interactive learning displays in room and hallways, locate and/or purchase local materials, organize and retrieve store room supplies.

3. Instruction

1. Communicate with students; establish positive and professional relationships

2. Use questioning and discussion techniques that promote critical thinking, design thinking, and scientific method

3. Engage students in learning through differentiating activities and use of the design cycle

4. Contribute to assessment for learning, help differentiate learning for individual students

5. Demonstrate flexibility and responsiveness in a dynamic learning environment

4. Professional Responsibilities

1. Reflect on the teaching and learning process; make suggestions for improvement

2. Maintain accurate records, including schedules, use of facilities, materials, and supplies

3. Communicate with faculty and staff

4. Maintain effective relationships with faculty and colleagues

5. Participate in the professional community, connect with all members of the school community

6. Grow and develop skills to become a better educator. This includes obtaining training on the correct and safe use of resources and equipment, as needed.

7. Demonstrate professional behavior, including dress, speech, and interactions.

8. Execute assignments with efficiency and precision and report to Teacher

Knowledge, Education and Experience:

• Technical Knowledge: BA degree, preferably in the area(s) of science and/or technology education.

• Understanding of VEX and FRC robotics systems, including hardware, software and programming fundamentals. Ability to troubleshoot and maintain robotic components, tools, and equipment. Familiarity with competition rules and guidelines for both VEX and FRC.

• Knowledge of mechanical systems, electronics, and pneumatics used in robotics competitions.

• Experience with CAD software (Onshape, Fusion 360, and SolidWorks for higher level CAD) for designing and prototyping robotics parts.

Abilities and Skills

• Program Coordination & Organization

● Strong project management skills to assist with event planning, team organization, and deadlines.

● Ability to track and manage inventory of consumables and robotics parts to ensure smooth operations.

● Capable of maintaining documentation, including safety protocols, technical guides, and institutional knowledge for program sustainability.

● Skilled at organizing events, from practice sessions to large-scale competitions.

• Leadership & Mentorship

● Ability to mentor and guide students in technical skills, teamwork, and leadership development.

● Strong collaborative mindset to work effectively with students, coaches, and mentors.

● Encourages a growth mindset, helping students learn from failures and iterate on their designs.

● Supports student leadership development, helping to foster a culture of mentorship within the program.

• Safety & Workspace Management

● Knowledge of workshop safety procedures and ability to enforce safety protocols during all robotics activities.

● Experience maintaining a safe and organized workspace, including proper handling of tools and materials.

● Ability to train students on safe tool use (power tools and machining).

• Communication & Team Collaboration

● Strong written and verbal communication skills to assist with documentation, training materials, and program updates.

● Ability to work closely with coordinators, mentors, and students to align activities with competition schedules.

● Effectively liaises with external organizations, such as vendors, sponsors, and competition organizers.

● Encourages a collaborative team environment, fostering teamwork and problem-solving.

• Event Planning & Logistics

● Experience in event coordination, including setting up competition fields, managing schedules, and troubleshooting logistics.

● Ability to coordinate travel arrangements and equipment transport for competitions.

● Skilled in organizing team meetings, training sessions, and outreach events.

• Adaptability & Problem-Solving

● Strong problem-solving skills to address challenges in robotics builds, programming, and team dynamics.

● Ability to adapt to evolving needs of the robotics program, including changes in competition rules and new technologies.

● Willingness to learn new tools and technologies that can enhance the program’s effectiveness.