Robotics Program Director

Overview:

The Robotics Program Head oversees the entire 7th –12th robotics program, serving as the primary Head Coach for the high school FIRST Robotics Competition (FRC) team while building and managing a strong coaching structure for the middle school VEX Robotics program. This role is responsible for competitive success, operational efficiency, scheduling discipline, and budget adherence across all robotics teams.

This position requires strong leadership, logistical organization, and a willingness to be hands-on, both in the lab and on the road.

Primary Responsibilities:

Program Leadership & Coaching

• Serve as Head Coach for the FRC team, leading all aspects of design, build, programming, strategy, competition preparation, and student development.
• Recruit, hire, train, and supervise assistant coaches for the middle school VEX program.
• Establish consistent coaching expectations, communication standards, and competitive goals across FRC and VEX.
• Ensure alignment between middle school and high school programs to support long-term student growth.
• Establish connections with outside agencies (engineering) to assist the program.

Scheduling & Competition Planning

• Develop a streamlined, strategic robotics calendar that prioritizes high-value tournaments at both the VEX and FRC levels.
• Finalize 90% of all practice, competition, and event schedules by the start of the school year to:
  • Secure school vehicle reservations
  • Communicate expectations clearly to families
  • Establish attendance requirements for practices and competitions
• Limit participation to priority events to maximize resources, student performance, and staff efficiency.

Transportation & Logistics

• Drive school vehicles to approximately 95% of off-campus competitions and events.
• Coordinate with the maintenance team to ensure proper transport of robots, tools, equipment, and materials.
• Maintain equipment readiness and ensure safe, organized travel procedures for all events.

Budget & Operations

• Develop and manage the robotics program budget, ensuring fiscal responsibility throughout the school year.
• Track expenses related to registration, equipment, travel, and supplies.
• Work collaboratively with administration to align spending with program priorities.

Communication & Expectations

• Clearly communicate schedules, attendance expectations, and program commitments to students and families.
• Establish and enforce attendance standards for practices and competitions at both the VEX and FRC levels.
• Serve as the primary point of contact for robotics-related questions and concerns.

Required Qualifications:

• Experience coaching or mentoring competitive robotics programs (FRC experience strongly preferred).
• Strong organizational and time-management skills.
• Ability and willingness to drive school vehicles and travel frequently during the season.
• Proven ability to manage budgets and operate within financial constraints.
• Strong communication and leadership skills with students, staff, and families.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Previous experience overseeing multiple teams or program levels.
• Technical knowledge in mechanical design, programming, electronics, or systems integration.
• Experience recruiting and supervising assistant coaches or volunteers.

Work Environment & Expectations

• Evening and weekend commitments are expected during build and competition seasons.
• Travel to local and regional competitions is required.
• This role is hands on, fast paced, and accountability driven being ideal for someone who likes structure, competition, and building something sustainable.

Harvard-Westlake School:

We are an independent school consisting of two campuses located in Los Angeles, California. We have approximately 1,600 curious, thoughtful, and inspiring students enrolled in grades seven through twelve.

We are committed to creating a community of belonging and actively strive to be a diverse and inclusive community. We do not discriminate on any basis. 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 diverse set of backgrounds; and have the capacity to serve as a model of openness, generosity, and acceptance.

Compensation:

Anticipated base compensation is $80,000-$100,000 depending on experience.

Great benefits we offer:

• Top-tier medical, dental, and vision coverage with zero to low premium contributions for you and eligible dependents
• 403(b) retirement with a 10% match and immediate vesting
• Cafeteria allowance – lunch is on us!
• Professional development support including continuing education.
• Personal growth grants
• Relocation assistance
• Employee Affinity and Resource Groups
• Mental wellness resources and workshops
• Partially subsidized employee housing (subject to availability)
• Tickets to local sporting and entertainment events
• Discount at the school bookstore (get your HW swag!)

Equal Employment Opportunity

Harvard-Westlake School is an equal opportunity employer. We seek to recruit, develop, and retain a diverse workforce and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, or any other legally protected status.