About the Team FIRST Chesapeake is dedicated to providing all young people, irrespective of their backgrounds, with transformative STEM opportunities that prepare them for a successful future. We believe that a thriving, innovation-driven workforce begins with investing in hands-on STEM programs that cultivate technical skills, leadership, and confidence.
Our team collaborates with schools, mentors, volunteers, and industry partners across Virginia, Maryland, and DC to bring the excitement of competitive robotics to thousands of students every year. We actively listen to the needs of the communities we serve, aligning our programs with workforce and educational goals. Our focus remains on ensuring that youth-centered insights and accessibility are integral to our mission. Through collaborative efforts and innovative approaches, we're creating a brighter future-one student at a time.
Position Overview We are looking for a motivated and detail-oriented Program Operations Coordinator to enhance our FIRST Tech Challenge (FTC) and FIRST Robotics Competition (FRC) programs, as well as our initiatives centered on Women in STEM and Alumni Ambassadors. This vital role is essential for ensuring the effective operation and growth of our programs. It requires a proactive individual especially skilled in multitasking and communication.
This is an excellent opportunity for those who are adept at managing time, prioritizing multiple tasks, and keeping intricate projects on track. You will monitor registration data, coordinate team placements, maintain seamless communication with partners, and manage digital tools, all crucial for the successful continuation and expansion of our programs.
You will work closely with the FIRST Chesapeake staff on event logistics, community engagement, and program sustainability, particularly during the busy competition season.
Primary Responsibilities: - Team Management & Communication
- Oversee team registration, qualifier selection, and placement for FTC and/or FRC. Act as the primary point of contact for coaches, teams, volunteers, and partners, delivering clear and professional communication through email, in-person meetings, and calls. Maintain organized records and ensure timely responses to all stakeholders.
- Project Coordination
- Develop and coordinate detailed timelines and deliverables covering multiple events and initiatives. Collaborate with both internal teams and external partners to ensure all program aspects are delivered smoothly and on schedule.
- Digital Systems & Tools
- Manage and update digital databases, spreadsheets, calendars, and tracking tools to monitor team progress, logistical requirements, and overall program outcomes. Keep all information current, accurate, and accessible to the team.
- Event Support
- Assist in the planning and execution of events throughout the year, especially during competition season. Attend a minimum of six events annually to manage logistics and resolve on-site issues, and complete thorough post-event reports and staff debriefs.
- Content & Outreach
- Prepare and update program content for the FIRST Chesapeake website. Collaborate on mission-aligned messaging for social media and other public-facing communications.
- Customer Service & Stakeholder Experience
- Exemplify Gracious Professionalism while maintaining high standards of responsiveness for all stakeholders, ensuring a positive and supportive experience in all interactions.
- Mission-Driven Work
- Vigorously promote and represent FIRST Chesapeake's mission to provide equitable, high-impact STEM programming. Ensure that all responsibilities reflect our values of access, innovation, and community empowerment.
Qualifications - Experience in program coordination, youth development, education, or related fields.
- Exceptional time management and organizational abilities, capable of juggling multiple priorities while maintaining schedule adherence and attention to detail.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills that allow you to engage clearly and professionally in various settings.
- Proficient with tools like Google Workspace (Docs, Sheets, Calendar, Slides), Canva (or similar), AI tools, Slack, and project management software.
- Able to work both independently and as part of a collaborative remote/hybrid team environment.
- Enthusiastic about expanding access to STEM education and empowering youth through hands-on learning experiences.
- Dependable and adaptable, prepared to support occasional evening or weekend events during peak robotics season, with advance notice.
- Bonus: Familiarity with FIRST programs, STEM competitions, or other youth-focused initiatives is a plus but not mandatory.
- Willingness to learn, adapt, and contribute within a mission-driven team committed to educational equity and innovation.
- Training and onboarding will be provided to support your growth in this role, even if you are new to robotics or competition-based programs.
Work Conditions - This is a remote-first role, based in Virginia or Maryland, with travel required for in-person events across VA, MD, DC, and occasionally WV.
- Most tasks are performed during standard business hours, but some schedule flexibility will be necessary, particularly during the competition season and special events (evenings/weekends may be required).
- Event days can be very active-candidates should be comfortable standing for long periods and occasionally lifting up to 50 lbs.
We offer a supportive, mission-driven team environment where you are encouraged to learn, contribute, and grow in your professional journey.
Compensation At FIRST Chesapeake, we deeply value our team and their well-being. Our benefits are designed to support a healthy, flexible, and purpose-driven work experience.
- Competitive salary range of $45,000-$55,000 annually, based on experience.
- Universal Time Off (UTO): No accrual caps; take time off as needed for vacation, illness, mental health, caregiving, or personal responsibilities, with supervisor approval.
- Summer and Winter Recess: Paid office closures for time to rest and recharge.
- Paid Holidays: New Year's Day, Memorial Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving & the following day.
- Paid Leave options available.
- Medical insurance offered for employees working 30+ hours per week.
- Employer-supported 401(k) retirement plan available for eligible employees, with FIRST Chesapeake contributions beginning after one year of service; employees can contribute immediately.
- Bi-annual performance reviews and regular goal check-ins.
- Budget for professional development, including training, conferences, and memberships developed in partnership with your supervisor.
- A nurturing learning culture with opportunities to expand your skills and responsibilities.
- Hybrid schedule with remote work as the standard and in-person event support as needed.
- A trust-based work culture focused on flexibility, balance, and mutual accountability.
- Regular performance evaluations by the Associate Director, concentrating on growth, learning outcomes, and overall contributions to the organization.