Robotics Program Director

Overview

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

Program Leadership & Student Development

• 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

Team Leadership & Collaboration

• 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

Harvard-Westlake School

Harvard-Westlake is an independent school with two campuses in Los Angeles, California, serving approximately 1,600 students in grades 7–12. Our mission is to provide an educational experience grounded in academic excellence, integrity, and a commitment to the development of the whole child.

We are committed to fostering a community of belonging and to building a diverse and inclusive environment. We seek candidates who demonstrate sensitivity, knowledge, and understanding of the diverse backgrounds of community members; have the ability to work flexibly, independently, and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment with individuals from a wide range of backgrounds; and have the capacity to serve as a model of openness, generosity, and acceptance.

Work Environment & Schedule

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.