FIRST Robotics Competition Volunteer Roles

The Robot Inspector is a key volunteer position. Robot Inspectors perform mandatory robot inspections, including weight and size, to ensure compliance with robot rules. They determine inspection outcome decisions (pass/fail) and work under the directions of the Lead Robot Inspector. The RI provides technical support to teams to help to resolve issues with their robots. This is a physically active role.

*Must sign a Conflict of Interest and Disclosure Statement prior to start of service.

Responsibilities

• Perform robot inspections and weigh-ins for each team assigned using the Inspection Checklist
• Obtain mentor and student signatures on the Inspection Checklist and sign and date the Checklist when all sections are complete.
• Participate in deliberations regarding inspection decision issues
• Assist with breakdown of robot inspection/weigh-in areas
• If affiliated with a team(s), cannot inspect affiliated team’s robot
• Any other tasks as directed by the Lead Robot Inspector

Experience and Skills Needed

• FIRST experience not required, but strongly preferred
• Must be post-high school or equivalent (minimum age of 18 at time of service)
  • Exceptions may be granted by event Volunteer Coordinators after review and approval by FIRST HQ
• Two years of experience with FIRST Robotics Competition robot build experience strongly preferred
• Mechanical and electrical aptitude required
• Ability to follow and enforce electrical wiring diagrams
• Ability to follow and enforce pneumatics diagrams
• Strong interpersonal/communication skills
• Ability to collaborate with others; work as a member of a team
• Ability to move about the facility, and stand for long periods of time

Volunteer Time Commitment

• Must pass online Robot Inspector Certification minimum one week prior to the event
• Minimum 1 full day commitment (preferably on first day of inspections)
• Note: Event schedules vary. Please check the event schedule and talk to your Volunteer Coordinator for detailed information on when you are expected to arrive. Volunteers should arrive on site 15-20 minutes prior to the start of every shift to allow time to check in at the Volunteer Registration table.

Training

Lead Robot Inspector conducts training onsite and provides guidance during the competition.

Judges for FIRST Robotics Competition select team award recipients with the help of a Judge Advisor through interaction with teams. They review team information and serve as role models for the students. Judges have the ability to positively impact the quality of event and have an opportunity to coach students on career paths.

There are separate volunteer roles within the system called “Judge – FIRST Impact Award” and “Judge – Dean’s List Award”. These volunteers focus on those specific awards but much of this role description still applies to those roles.

*Must sign a Conflict of Interest and Disclosure Statement prior to start of service.

Responsibilities

• Attend and complete required judge training
  • Learn and understand award criteria and selection process
• Read the judge Manual
• Wear provided judge shirt, closed toed shoes, and safety glasses
• Interview, take notes and observe teams in the Pit, on the playing field, and other areas
• Review all information given by teams while at the event
• Participate on judge panel to help decide team/student awards recipients
• Write short awards scripts extolling merits of winning teams
• Assist with award presentations to teams
• Must disclose all relationships with FIRST Robotics Competition teams at the event and must follow the directions given to you by the Judge Advisor

Experience and Skills Needed

• FIRST experience not required
• Must be post-high school or equivalent (minimum age of 19 at time of service). Post-college or equivalent preferred (23 years old or older)
• Strong assessment skills
• Strong critical thinking skills
• Strong interpersonal/communication skills
• Ability to collaborate with others, work as a member of a team
• Ability to balance the nature of the position as one of ensuring fair judging, while acting as a mentor and role model to students participating in the FIRST Robotics Competition
• Ability to move about the facility 

Volunteer Time Commitment

• Remote pre-event training 
• Could include some pre-event online reading and interviews
• Minimum 2 full day commitment at event

Training

Training is provided remotely by FIRST HQ and the Judge Advisor prior to the competition. The Judge Advisor will email the Judge Manual will be emailed to all judges prior to the competition.

The Control System Advisor (CSA) assists teams with Robot Control System-related issues. Works in collaboration with the FIRST Technical Advisor and/or Robot Inspectors, who may direct teams experiencing issues on the field or in the pits to the CSA for assistance. This position requires a high level of technical knowledge and interpersonal skills and can affect the quality of the event.

Responsibilities

• Assist teams in correcting Robot Control System Issues such as those related to the roboRIO, support boards such as the Pneumatics Control Module or Pneumatics Hub, wiring, programming, sensors, Driver Station software, and laptop-roboRIO interface
• Assist teams with obtaining additional support as required
• Be aware of problems that arise and be ready to take steps to quickly diagnose and correct, with the goal of getting teams’ robots running and on the field
• Obtain a radio from event management office to keep aware of event information and issues, return it to office at end of day
• Participate in training opportunities offered by FIRST and other parties

Experience and Skills Needed

• Recent hands-on experience with the FIRST Robotics Competition Control System and diagnostic tools required
  • Team mentors or alumni strongly encouraged
• Must be post-high school or equivalent (minimum age of 19 at time of service)
  • Exceptions may be granted by event Volunteer Coordinators after review and approval by FIRST HQ
• Understanding of basic Control System wiring guidelines and rules
• Proficiency in at least one of the FIRST Robotics Competition software languages (LabVIEW, C++, or Java)
• Strong problem-solving skills
• Strong time management and prioritization skills
• Strong interpersonal/communication skills in a high stress environment
• Ability to stand for long periods of time and move about the pit area
• Knowledge of the competition game and robot rules

Volunteer Time Commitment

• Pre-event Training calls
• Minimum 2 full day commitment (Districts)
• Minimum 3 full day commitment (Regionals)

Training

CSA Trainer: Kevin O’Connor

Training Schedule: CSAs should plan to attend all webinars and review all training materials provided on the FRC CSA Thinkscape course.

Training Sessions – Introductory Training Materials provided within Thinkscape by TBD.

Follow up Sessions – Follow up webinars will be held on TBD. 

Joining Thinkscape

Note: All CSA communication and trainings occur through Thinkscape. This requires CSAs to create an account on Thinkscape and then join the FRC Control System Advisor Course.

• To access the training, create your Thinkscape account. You will be placed into the Control System Advisor course.
  • Please note, if you already have a Thinkscape account (example FLL coach account), you can add the Control System Advisor course by logging in, clicking “Join a Course” and entering this code: 8AA06DCA.
    • If you aren’t seeing the course content, ensure that you have selected the correct institution. In the Switch Institution dropdown in the top left corner, choose FIRST Robotics Competition.
• When you log into Thinkscape for the first time, you will need to accept the terms & conditions and privacy policy.
• You will see your Course icon listed on the main dashboard. Click on the Course title. Then you will see training modules within the course.

The Referees observe matches, identify and “call” rule infractions, and participate in deliberations with other referees and the Head Referee regarding contested calls. They work under the direction of the Head Referee, and play a critical role in ensuring a positive, fair environment with a smooth flow of match play, and maintaining the pace of the event. This role is physically active and positioned on the perimeter of the playing field.

*Must sign a Conflict of Interest and Disclosure Statement prior to start of service. A conflict of interest does not necessarily preclude an individual from being assigned the Referee role.

 Responsibilities

• Must participate in pre-event conference call and/or onsite meeting conducted by the Head Referee
• Contribute to a positive and fair competition environment for all participants
• Display Gracious Professionalism at all times, even in stressful situations
• Participate in discussions with Head Referee and other Referees to determine official penalty or scoring rulings
• Monitor/promote safe practices on and around the playing field – lead by example
• Wear safety glasses and provided Referee shirt when in the arena
• Obtain a radio from the Head Referee to discuss rule infractions
• Observe matches and “call” rule infractions

Experience and Skills Needed

• Must be post-high school or equivalent (minimum age of 19 at time of service)
  • Exceptions may be granted by event Volunteer Coordinators after review and approval by FIRST HQ
• Thorough knowledge of the competition game and rules of play, including staying up-to-date with Team Updates (must pass certification test prior to first Referee shift each season based on the timeline established by the Chief Referees)
• Work and interact with volunteers, team members and students, contracted and FIRST staff
• Approachable personality; high energy
• Ability to balance the nature of the position as one of ensuring fair play, while acting as a mentor and role model to students participating in the FIRST Robotics Competition
• Strong communication skills and ability to “take charge”; be assertive, but tactful
• Ability to collaborate with others, work as a member of a team
• Ability to move about the field and stand for long periods of time

Volunteer Time Commitment

• Must pass online Referee certification by deadline set by FIRST HQ
• Minimum 2 full day commitment (Districts)
• Minimum 3 full day commitment (Regionals)

Training

Pre-event certification provided by FIRST HQ prior to start of competition season. Head Referee conducts training during a teleconference approximately one week in advance of the event and/or onsite meeting. The Head Referee provides guidance during the competition.

Field Assembly and Disassembly volunteers assist with assembly of the playing field and the practice field on event set-up day, and/or disassembly on event break-down day. Volunteers are not required to do both assembly and disassembly.

Responsibilities

• Assemble playing field and practice field including electronics
• Strict adherence to the FIRST safety practices, specifically for lifting and other physically challenging tasks
• Disassemble playing and practice fields including electronics and pack in travel crates
• Assist in loading and unloading travel crates and carpet rolls onto and off of the truck, as needed

Experience and Skills Needed

• FIRST experience not required
• Physical strength; ability to lift heavy objects (no more than 50 lbs.) and push large crates
• Basic mechanical/technical skills
• Ability to work as a member of a team
• Ability to move about the facility
• Ability to listen to and follow instructions

Volunteer Time Commitment

• Setup Day – approx. 8 hours
• Disassembly day – approx. 4 hours

Training

Field Supervisor and the FIRST Technical Advisor provide on-the-job training and direction.

The Safety Manager will work with the Safety Attendants to increase the awareness of safety. Volunteers in this role will work with teams to ensure they understand, comply with, and practice the fundamentals of safety to ensure the safety of all FIRST event participants.  The FIRST Safety program nurtures a positive reinforcement model that emphasizes safe behavior and coaching to correct unsafe behavior. The goal is to have a safe event and to promote safety as a holistic life skill. Safety Advisors will receive training prior to the event and maintain a high level of safety as stated in the FIRST Safety Manual and the FIRST Game & Event Rules Manual.

Responsibilities

• Knowledge of safety issues
• Conduct Safety Captains Meeting at event
• Manage the daily Safety Recognition awards
• Attend the daily morning meetings if directed by the Event Manager 
• Monitor overall event safety, observe unsafe actions, and coach teams in appropriate safe behavior
• Oversee Pit safety from beginning to the end of the event including Load in and Load out
• Monitor Safety glasses tables to ensure safety glass stations are properly stocked and running efficiently

Experience and Skills Needed

• Must be post-high school or equivalent (minimum age of 19 at time of service)
  • Exceptions may be granted by event Volunteer Coordinators after review and approval by FIRST HQ
• FIRST experience not required; general knowledge of FIRST preferred
• Thorough knowledge of the safety principles required, work related safety background preferred
• Ability to “take charge”; be assertive
• Ability to link FIRST principles to a safety approach and move teams to compliance
• Ability to move about the facility
• Ability to work and interact with volunteers, team members, contracted staff and FIRST staff
• Approachable and friendly personality
• Strong interpersonal/communication skills focused on a coaching approach

Volunteer Time Commitment

• Pre-event training (online certification)
• Minimum 2 full day commitment (Districts)
• Minimum 3 full day commitment (Regionals)

Training

Pre-event certification provided by FIRST HQ prior to the start of competition season. Please review the following resources before the event:

• Safety Glass Station Guidelines
• Safety Glasses Sign Out Sheet
• Return Safety Glasses Sign

Safety Attendant volunteers work together under the Safety Manager to help keep the event safe. Some volunteers may help by greeting visitors and handing out safety glasses at Safety Glass Stations. Others may help with pedestrian traffic flow throughout the facility, monitoring the audience, and keeping walkways and aisles clear.

Maintain an adequate supply of safety glasses at Safety Glass Station, alert the Safety Manager when more glasses, supplies, or volunteers are needed. Maintain a high level of safety as stated in the FIRST Safety Manual and FIRST Game & Event Rules Manual.  

Responsibilities

• Provide visitors with safety glasses needed to enter the pit area and clean safety glasses when returned
• Demonstrate Gracious Professionalism when explaining FIRST safety policies
• Provide visitors with earplugs as requested
• Keep aisles, hallways and team traffic pathways clear in the Pit, near the playing field
• Limits team, volunteer, and public access to field
• Ensure that all Safety Glasses Stations are adequately supplied with safety glasses, cleaning supplies, earplugs, and other items as needed throughout the day
• Properly secure safety glasses at the end of each day during the competition
• Complete Safety Glasses Inventory at end of competition
• Communicate with Event Manager and Safety Manager if additional supplies are needed, either for your own event or an upcoming event

Experience and Skills Needed

• FIRST experience not required
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills
• Approachable and friendly personality
• Ability to collaborate with others, work as a member of a team
• Ability to take charge; be assertive, but tactful
• General knowledge of facility and event layout

Volunteer Time Commitment

• Minimum 1/2 day commitment
• Preferred 2 full day commitment (Districts) or 3 full day commitment (Regionals)

Training

Please review the following resources before the event:

• Safety Glass Station Guidelines
• Safety Glasses Sign Out Sheet
• Return Safety Glasses Sign

The Field Supervisor supervises field assembly and disassembly in collaboration with the FIRST Technical Advisor (FTA). This is a critical role in the competition as they direct activity on the field to ensure efficient execution of the matches, maintain the pace of the event, and smooth flow of match play. Field Supervisors work in collaboration with the FIRST Technical Advisors who provide support and advice during the event. Field Supervisors also lead the Field Resetters.

*Must sign a Conflict of Interest and Disclosure Statement prior to start of service.

Responsibilities

• Implement FIRST safety standards and help manage safety for the event 
• Participate in pre-event trainings provided by FIRST
• Review the Roles and Expectations document for the Field Supervisor
• Review all game and field documents provided for the Field Supervisor
• Supervise field constructions (including practice field) in collaboration with the FIRST Technical Advisor (FTA)
• Lead Field Resetters; Direct field reset process and manage field repairs
• Facilitate adherence to match timing
• Monitor placement of robots on field
• Promote and monitor the safety of volunteers and team members
• Collaborate with the Lead Queuer, Game Announcer, Emcee, FIRST Technical Advisor Assistant (FTAA), and FTA to monitor and set/adjust game pace
• Conduct volunteer training for and supervise Field Assembly/Disassembly and Field Resetters at event
• Obtain a radio from event management office to keep aware of event information and issues, return it to office at end of day 
• Attend the daily morning meeting if directed by Event Manager

Experience and Skills Needed

• FIRST experience required including an understanding of event match cycles
• Team experience preferred but not required; Team match participation ideal
• Must be post-high school or equivalent (minimum age of 19 at time of service)
  • Exceptions may be granted by event Volunteer Coordinators after review and approval by FIRST HQ
• Knowledge of the competition game and rules
• Construction experience ideal
• Strong leadership skills
• Strong interpersonal/communication skills
• Ability to stand for long periods of time and move about playing field

Volunteer Time Commitment

• Pre-event Training calls
• Setup Day
• Practice Day (if applicable)
• Minimum 3 full day commitment

Training

Field Supervisor Trainer: Scott Goering and Ayla Delaat

Training Conference Calls:

• Dial In Information
  • Coming Soon!
• Access Code: Coming Soon!
• Calls:
  • Coming Soon!

 *An invitation to join the Box.com training folder will be sent via email by the Trainer/FIRST HQ

The Scorekeeper manages and operates the Field Management System (FMS) software for scoring and field control of FIRST Robotics Competition matches. They communicate scores, play a critical role in ensuring smooth flow of match play, and assist with maintaining the pace of the event.

*Must sign a Conflict of Interest and Disclosure Statement prior to start of service.

Responsibilities

• Primary operator of the Field Management System software
• Work with the FTA to test and operate the playing field electronics
• Communicate with Game Announcer, MC, and A/V staff to display Match Results and Awards
• Enter alliance team pairings and award winners into FMS
• Print materials to be distributed to Lead Queuer, Pit Administration Supervisor, etc.
• May assist with assembly and disassembly of Field Management System and playing field

Experience and Skills Needed

• Must be post-high school or equivalent (minimum age of 19 at time of service)
  • Exceptions may be granted by event Volunteer Coordinators after review and approval by FIRST HQ
• FIRST experience is preferred, but not required
• Ability to collaborate with others, work as a member of a team
• Detail oriented and able to focus on the task for long periods of time
• Concise communication skills
• Working knowledge of the competition game and tournament rules
• Competent computer skills; experience with Microsoft Word and Excel
• Self-directed individual
• Strong assessment skills

Volunteer Time Commitment

• Pre-event training calls and pre-recorded training videos
• Set-Up Day (Optional but preferred)
• Minimum 2 full day commitment (Districts)
• Minimum 3 full day commitment (Regionals)

Training

Scorekeeper Trainer: Jason Proulx

Training Sessions: All training sessions contain different content. Scorekeepers should plan to attend all webinars and review all training materials provided on the FRC Scorekeeper Box Folder.

Training Conference Calls: Coming Soon!

*An invitation to join the Box.com training folder will be sent via email by the Trainer/FIRST HQ

Event Photographer volunteers for FIRST Robotics Competition photograph and document the event via digital images. Photographs should be professional in nature, and not include selfies or inappropriate behavior or language. The photographs should be provided to the Event Leadership within 2 weeks of conclusion of the event so that teams, volunteers, and Event Leadership can utilize the pictures.

Responsibilities

• Possess and bring camera equipment (not cell phones). The event will not be responsible for nor provide equipment.
• Work with Event Planning Committee and/or Event Leadership to develop a shot list. Pictures should include teams, robots, and volunteers
• Share pictures with Event Leadership within 2 weeks of the event

Experience and Skills Needed

• FIRST experience not required; Event Leadership may request samples or a portfolio
• Self-directed individual
• Attention to detail
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills
• Experience shooting in fast-paced environment
• Experience shooting indoors in low light
• Access to Digital SLR camera or equivalent
• Experience using photo processing software
• Ability to collaborate with others, work as a member of a team
• Ability to stand for long periods of time, as well as quickly navigate crowds, the pits and potential obstacles throughout the event

Volunteer Time Commitment

• Can be divided among multiple volunteers for the duration of the event
• Time commitment varies by event
  • Preferred 2 full day commitment (Districts) or 3 full day commitment (Regionals)

Training

No training will be conducted for this role.

The Queuer plays a critical role in ensuring smooth flow of match play and maintaining the pace of the event. The Queuer is responsible for managing team traffic to and from the playing field and restricting access to field for unauthorized individuals. This is a physically active role.

*Must sign a Conflict of Interest and Disclosure Statement prior to start of service.

Responsibilities, as determined by the Lead Queuer, may include

• Implement FIRST safety standards and help manage safety for the event 
• Stage and position teams for matches
• Restrict access to field for unauthorized individuals
• Obtain a radio from event management office to keep aware of event information and issues, return it to office at end of day 
• Communicate with the Lead Queuer regarding team competition schedule and timing, working with the match schedule
• Maintain an uninterrupted flow of teams to the playing field
• Direct teams to player stations, and facilitate team departure from field

Experience and Skills Needed

• FIRST experience not required, but preferred
• Ability to “take charge”; be assertive, but tactful
• Basic knowledge of the match process is helpful
• Strong leadership, interpersonal and communication skills
• Ability to collaborate with others, work as a member of a team
• Self-directed individual 

Volunteer Time Commitment

• Minimum 2 full day commitment (Districts)
• Minimum 3 full day commitment (Regionals)

Training

The Lead Queuer will conduct training on site and provide guidance during the competition.

Field Resetters repair and reset the playing field after each team match. They play a critical role in ensuring smooth flow of match play and maintaining the pace of the event. Duties need to be done efficiently. This position is normally very physically active.

Responsibilities, as assigned by the Field Supervisor, may include

• Strict adherence to the FIRST safety practices
• Reset field after each team match – replace game pieces and field elements to their starting position for the next match
• Between matches check for and remove debris from the playing field
• Check carpet for runs and loose seam tape; apply/replace as needed
• Retrieve objects that fall outside the playing field
• Protect the scoring table from objects that leave the playing field
• Prepare the field at end of the day for the following day’s matches
• Open the field’s gates at the end of each match and close them prior to the next match
• Monitor and safeguard team members and robots during field reset

Experience and Skills Needed

• FIRST experience not required
• Friendly personality
• Strong interpersonal/communication skills
• Ability to take charge; be assertive, but tactful in safeguarding team members and volunteers on and around the playing field
• Ability to move about the field and stand for long periods of time
• Both teens and adults encouraged

Volunteer Time Commitment

• Minimum 1 full day commitment
• Preferred 2 day (District) or 3 day (Regional)

Training

The Field Supervisor conducts training on site and provides guidance during the competition.

Machine Shop Staff volunteers assist teams with robot repair and modifications. Some volunteers may help with processing orders while others may use machines and tools to make requested modifications. This role requires a significant level of responsibility and provides the opportunity to utilize and further develop coaching skills and mechanical knowledge. This is an active role, not sedentary.

Responsibilities

• Process work orders in a timely manner
• Use tools and machines supplied to make modifications requested by teams
• Promote and instruct teams on tool safety practices depending on insurance and shop regulations
• Maintain safe work environment
• Maintain an organized area

Experience and Skills Needed

• FIRST experience not required, general knowledge of FIRST preferred
• Must be able to work in a fast-paced environment
• General knowledge of robot parts
• Experienced machinist/welder, or significant machine shop experience
• Strong mechanical/technical skills
• Experience using a variety of machine tools (See the list at end of position description)
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills
• Self-directed individual
• The list below includes equipment that is typical of most event Machine Shops, which any volunteer assigned to the Machine Shop Staff role should be qualified to operate. Please note that additional equipment may be present. Machine Shop Staff will not operate any equipment they are not trained or otherwise qualified to operate.
  • Vertical milling machine
  • Engine lathes
  • Acetylene torches
  • Drill press
  • Band saw
  • Disc sander
  • TIG welder
  • Finger brake
  • MAPP gas torch
  • Portable band saw
  • Saber saw
  • Router or roto-zip
  • Circular saw

Volunteer Time Commitment

• Minimum 1 full day commitment
• Preferred 2 full day (Districts) or 3 full day (Regionals)

Training

Training is on-site.

The webcast operator controls the FIRST Webcast Unit at selected events, creating a live video stream for engagement outside the arena. This volunteer works under the direction of the FIRST Technical Advisor (FTA) to create an exciting, cohesive experience for web spectators, and create an archive for teams to re-live the event.

Responsibilities

• Wear safety glasses when in the arena
• Create exciting experience for online spectators
• Switch between available video feeds to create a cohesive, exciting story
• Follow direction from FIRST Robotics Competition support to solve technical problems related to the equipment

Experience and Skills Needed

• FIRST experience not required, but preferred
• Must be post-high school (minimum age of 18 at time of service)
  • Exceptions may be granted by event Volunteer Coordinators after review and approval by FIRST HQ
• Basic knowledge of the competition game, rules of play, and flow of an event
• Work and interact with volunteers, team members and students, contracted and FIRST staff
• Basic technical skills (computer proficiency)
• Strong communication skills and an eye for detail
• Ability to collaborate with others, work as a member of a team
• Ability to stay focused and concentrated

Volunteer Time Commitment

• Pre-event training (2-3 hours online)
• Minimum 3 full day commitment (Regionals)

Training

Pre-event certification provided by FIRST HQ prior to the start of the competition season.

*An invitation to join the Box.com folder with training materials will be sent via email by the Trainer/FIRST HQ

Webcast Operator Trainer: Jacob Komar

Training Conference Calls:

• Dial In Information
  • Coming Soon! 

The Pit Administrator role provides direction, assistance, information, and support to teams and guests in the Pit. Volunteers in this role may be asked to make general announcements via the public-address (PA) system in the Pit area but this varies by event. This is a physically active, fast-paced role. 

Responsibilities

• Set-up the Pit Administration station (varies by event)
• Assist with team check-in
• Answer questions from teams, and visitors in the Pit area
• Assist with distribution of the daily match schedule to teams
• Maintain an adequate supply of printed materials at the Pit Administration station
• Prohibit teams and guests from entering Pit prior to scheduled opening time; facilitate the on-time departure of teams after Pit closes
• Manage lost and found items
• Collaborate with EMTs on preparing Incident Reports as required
• Communicate with the Queuers to coordinate team line-up for matches, for events that require these announcements
• Make general “housekeeping” announcements
• Help facilitate teams needing parts or assistance by making announcements
• Break down and pack up Pit Administration station during the final awards ceremony

Experience and Skills Needed

• Must be post-high school or equivalent (minimum age of 19 at time of service)
  • Exceptions may be granted by event Volunteer Coordinators after review and approval by FIRST HQ
• General knowledge of the FIRST Robotics Competition
• Customer-facing, must be friendly and behave professionally at all times 
• General knowledge of facility and event layout
• Strong interpersonal/communication skills
• Strong organizational skills

Volunteer Time Commitment

• Minimum 2 full day commitment (Districts)
• Minimum 3 full day commitment (Regionals)

Training

Pit Administration Supervisor conducts training onsite* and provides guidance during the competition.

The Volunteer Room Assistant assists the Volunteer Coordinator with volunteer check in and/or monitors the volunteer room.

Responsibilities

• Work with the Volunteer Coordinator to be trained in the process of checking in registered volunteers, assigning “walk-on” volunteers, issuing name badges, volunteer t-shirts, and other volunteer recognition items. Must be familiar with the Walk-On Event Volunteer Policy
• Establish that the volunteer registration process is set and organized prior to check-in
• Obtain all necessary forms and documents from the Volunteer Coordinator before the start of the event. This may be in the form of links or paper documents.
• If equipment will be used during the registration process, ensure equipment is in working order and secure/store equipment at the end of each day
• Greet and check in volunteers as they arrive at the event; ensure that all volunteers check-in daily before starting their volunteer duties (ideally before breakfast)
• Check for proper authorization for presence and upon entry into the volunteer room; i.e. volunteers wear a FIRST “Volunteer” shirt and volunteer name badge identifying their status
  • A counter may be used  to get an accurate number of volunteers that eat in the facility.
• Gather all completed necessary paper forms from volunteers and send them back to FIRST HQ at the close of the event
• Break down registration table and equipment at the close of the event, and other duties as requested by the Volunteer Coordinator

Experience and Skills Needed

• FIRST experience not required
• An understanding of office technology, and the ability to utilize them is helpful (e.g., spreadsheets, printers, copiers)
• Self-directed individual
• Strong interpersonal, communication, and leadership skills
• Willingness to collaborate with others

Volunteer Time Commitment

• Can be divided among multiple volunteers for the duration of the event
• Preferred 2 full day commitment (Districts)
• Preferred 3 full day commitment (Regionals)

Training

Training will be provided by the Volunteer Coordinator on site.