The Spare Parts Attendant for FIRST Robotics Competition manages the distribution and loaning of spare materials to teams.

Responsibilities

• Set up and breakdown of spare parts table and parts
• Populate distribution log, and ensure teams complete required paperwork
• Track parts exchanged and loaned, enforce exchange/loaner requirements and restrictions
• Work with the FTA and CSA to get approval to loan out specific parts
• Ability to work and interact with team students and mentors

Experience and Skills Needed

• FIRST experience preferred; knowledge of current season kit of parts is preferred
• Minimum age: 13
• Strong interpersonal/communication skills
• Strong organizational skills
• Self-directed individual
• Ability to work as a member of a team

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

Training will be conducted on-site

• Events use the Spare Parts Loaner Form to track parts that are loaned to teams. Some copies are available in the spare parts road case, but if you need additional copies, please print out the Spare Parts Loaner Form. 

Reporting Relationships and Supervision

• Direct Supervision: Pit Administration Supervisor
• On-Site Support: Volunteer Coordinator

* Must read and comply with the Volunteer Handbook

The Inspection Manager for FIRST Robotics Competition manages the paperwork and details associated with the inspection process and tracks the progress of all teams at the event through inspection. Provides support to the Lead Robot Inspector in prioritizing team inspections based on match schedule. Identifies issues and potential bottlenecks. Provides recommendations on physical flow of teams through the inspection station. 

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

Responsibilities

• Assist with set-up of inspection station
• Support the Lead Robot Inspector as needed including conveying team inspection assignments
• Track progress of all teams through the inspection process, and ensures the information is accurately displayed
• Perform robot weight and size checks as necessary, and helps sequence teams
• Ensure team inspection status is current and prominently displayed
• Provide info to Lead Robot Inspector and other key volunteers on progress and issues
• If affiliated with a team, cannot make decisions about or inspect affiliated team’s robot
• Manages the inspection station including when the Lead Robot Inspector is away 

Experience and Skills Needed

• FIRST experience not required; team experience preferred
• Must be post-high school or equivalent
• Minimum age: 18
  • Exceptions may be granted by event Volunteer Coordinators after review and approval by the local Program Delivery Partner.
• Strong organization skills and attention to detail
• Strong interpersonal/communication skills
• Ability to collaborate with others & work as a member of a team

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/Resources

Lead Robot Inspector conducts training day of and provides guidance during the competition. Please review the following resource before the event: 

• Inspection Manager Best Practices

Reporting Relationships and Supervision

• Direct Supervision: Lead Robot Inspector
• On-Site Support: Volunteer Coordinator

* Must read and comply with the Volunteer Handbook.

The Robot Inspector (RI) for FIRST Robotics Competition 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: 18
  • Exceptions may be granted by event Volunteer Coordinators after review and approval by the local Program Delivery Partner
• 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

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

Pre-event certification provided by FIRST HQ prior to the competition season. The Lead Robot Inspector conducts training onsite and provides guidance during the competition.

Reporting Relationships and Supervision

• Direct Supervision: Lead Robot Inspector
• On-Site Support: Volunteer Coordinator

* Must read and comply with the Volunteer Handbook.

The Referee for FIRST Robotics Competition is a key volunteer position. 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 (used to discuss rule infractions)
• Observe matches and "call" rule infractions

Experience and Skills Needed

• Must be post-high school or equivalent
• Minimum age: 18
  • Exceptions may be granted by event Volunteer Coordinators after review and approval by the local Program Delivery Partner
• 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

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

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

Reporting Relationships and Supervision

• Direct Supervision: Head Referee
• On-Site Support: Volunteer Coordinator

* Must read and comply with the Volunteer Handbook

Machine Shop Staff volunteers for FIRST Robotics Competition 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 post-high school or equivalent
• Minimum age: 18
• 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

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

Training is on-site

Reporting Relationships and Supervision

• Direct Supervision and On-Site Support: Event Manager

* Must read and comply with the Volunteer Handbook

The Lead Queuer for FIRST Robotics Competition is a key volunteer position. They direct and supervise the Queuers, help determine team traffic flow on and off the field, and monitor flow during the competition. They play a critical role in ensuring smooth flow of match play and maintaining the pace of the event. This is a physically active role.

*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
• Contribute to the success of the competition by maintaining match pace
• Collaborate with Field Supervisor and FIRST Technical Advisor on team traffic flow pattern to/from the playing field
• Train, direct, and supervise Queuers
• Restrict access to field for unauthorized individuals
• Stage and position teams in preparation for the start of matches
• Stage and position team representatives for Alliance Selection
• Maintain uninterrupted flow of teams to the playing field
• Direct teams to player stations, and facilitates team departure from field
• 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 Pit Announcer regarding team competition schedule and timing, working with the match schedule
• Create proper markings for team flow direction
• Attend the daily morning meeting if directed by Event Manager

Experience and Skills Needed

• Must be post-high school or equivalent
• Minimum age: 18
  • Exceptions may be granted by event Volunteer Coordinators after review and approval by the local Program Delivery Par
• Queuer experience is helpful
• Ability to "take charge"; be assertive, but tactful
• Ability to collaborate with others; work as a member of a team
• Basic knowledge of the game and match process is helpful
• Strong leadership, interpersonal and communication skills
• Self-directed individual
• Ability to stand for long periods of time

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

Pre-event certification provided by FIRST HQ prior to the competition season. FIRST Technical Advisor provides advice during the competition. 

Reporting Relationships and Supervision

• Direct Supervision: FIRST Technical Advisor (FTA)
• On-Site Support: Volunteer Coordinator

* Must read and comply with the Volunteer Handbook.

The Quiet Room Attendant for FIRST Robotics Competition oversees the Quiet Room and helps to ensure that individuals using the room respect the nature of the space. The volunteer in this position will monitor the Quiet Room, supervise activities, answer questions, and provide gentle reminders of the purpose of this space. The Quiet Room is a place for individuals to step away from the excitement and pressure of a FIRST event to decompress in silence.

Responsibilities

• Set the tone by doing your own quiet/silent activity while monitoring the room.
• Arrange space and (possible) supplies to be welcoming.
• Maintain the room and any equipment in good order (for example, moderate lighting and minimal visual stimuli, organized supplies for activities)
• Answer questions and provide general assistance
• If empty, take a walk and invite people to use the space
• Take short breaks as needed.  Coordinate with the Volunteer Coordinator if someone needs a break. There should be at least two people monitoring the room at all times.  
• Keep room quiet, maintain supplies, contact appropriate people in emergency (EMT or other Emergency Services – phone numbers, how to call 911, etc.)
• Know what is and what is not allowed in the Quiet Room. Reference the Expanded Quiet Room Guide for more details.

Experience and Skills Needed

• FIRST experience not required
• Must be post-high school or equivalent
• Minimum age: 18
• Self-directed individual
• Does NOT need to be professionally trained

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

Volunteers should coordinate with the Volunteer Coordinator in advance to understand what materials will be available for the room. Volunteers should also read the Expanded Quiet Room Guide prior to arrival on site to understand additional details.

Reporting Relationships and Supervision

• On-Site Support: Volunteer Coordinator

* Must read and comply with the Volunteer Handbook

The Lead Robot Inspector (LRI) for FIRST Robotics Competition is a key volunteer position. The LRI oversees and performs mandatory robot inspection and weigh-in processes to ensure compliance with the current season robot design and construction rules. They train, supervise, and direct the Robot Inspectors and Inspection Managers; make final decisions regarding inspection decision disputes; provide general technical support for teams by helping to resolve issues with their robots; and ensure all teams are inspected and ready to play when matches begin.

The Lead Robot Inspector is submitted by the Volunteer Coordinator. Once submitted, the individual must be approved through FIRST; including the Chief Robot Inspectors. Once approved the candidate will be contacted and assigned by FIRST HQ.

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

 Responsibilities

• Help recruit Robot Inspectors for your event
• Work with your Volunteer Coordinator and assist as needed
• Set up inspection and weigh-in areas
• Perform robot inspections and weigh-ins using the inspection checklist
• Obtain mentor and student signatures on the Inspection Checklist and sign and date the Checklist when all sections are complete
• Ensure the robot inspection process supports the competition schedule
• Assist Inspection Manager to complete inspection paperwork
• Be present at the Driver’s Meeting to remind teams about inspections and the need to be re-inspected when making changes to the robot. Answer any questions from teams at that time
• Lead deliberations with Robot Inspectors regarding inspection decision issues or discrepancies; makes the final decision (in case of a dispute, collaborate with FIRST or a Chief Robot Inspector if needed)
• Determine need for re-inspections
• Supervise, direct and act as a resource for Robot Inspectors
• Break down inspection and weigh-in areas and pack for transport
• Maintain consistency throughout the inspection process
• Meet with the FIRST Technical Advisor and Head Referee throughout competition to discuss robot issues and other items that affect the competition
• If affiliated with a team, cannot make decisions about or inspect affiliated team’s robot
• Attend daily morning meeting conducted by the Event Manager
• Be present on the field during elimination matches and be available to both the Head Ref and FTA for consultation
• Only individuals who have been issued the FIRST role specific apparel may wear it for both official and non-official FIRST events
• LRI’s are required to use the FIRST Slack channel and fill out the feedback survey after the event

Experience and Skills Needed

• Minimum 2 years prior FIRST Robot Inspection experience required; 2 years prior team robot build experience required (exceptions may be approved by FIRST HQ)
• Minimum age: 21 
  • Exceptions may be granted by FIRST HQ
• Knowledge of robot inspection and other competition rules
• Mechanical and electrical aptitude required
• Ability to follow and enforce electrical wiring diagrams
• Ability to follow and enforce pneumatics diagrams
• Ability to "take charge", be assertive, but tactful
• Strong interpersonal, communication, and leadership skills
• Ability to collaborate with others
• Self-directed individual
• Ability to move about the facility, and stand for long periods of time

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 training is provided by FIRST HQ prior to start of competition season. May include: live and/or recorded web conferences, teleconference(s), manual and other support materials, and email communications. All LRI’s are responsible for watching LRI Training videos, reviewing presentation and training materials, and passing the Robot Inspector test each season.

All Rookie Lead Robot Inspectors must participate in training prior to serving as a Lead Robot Inspector. Existing Lead Robot Inspectors may be asked to participate in order to remain qualified. Any exceptions requests will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis by FIRST HQ. 

The Lead Robot Inspector is expected to conduct training for Robot Inspectors and Inspection Managers for their event.

Reporting Relationships and Supervision

• Support by Planning Committee, FIRST HQ, and Co-Chief Robot Inspectors
• On-Site Support: Volunteer Coordinator

* Must read and comply with the Volunteer Handbook.

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The Judge Advisor for FIRST Robotics Competition is a key volunteer position. They are responsible for training the Judge Panel pre-event and leading the Judge Panel on-site. Judge Advisors do not participate in selecting awards but rather facilitate that process. This position requires a high level of organization and interpersonal skills, and can affect the quality of the event.

The Judge Advisor is submitted by the Planning Committee via the Program Delivery Partner. Once submitted, the individual must be approved through FIRST HQ and the Chief Judge Advisors. Once approved the candidate will be contacted and assigned by FIRST HQ.

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

Responsibilities

• Complete FIRST’s Data Privacy and Protection training
  • Maintain confidentiality of personal information in compliance with the FIRST Privacy Policy
• Participate in all required Judge Advisor training provided by FIRST HQ and the Chief Judge Advisors, including conference calls and webinars and reading the Judge manual and other materials yearly
• Training the Judge Panel pre-event & Leading the Judge Panel on-site
• Facilitating award decisions & clarifying award guidelines and ensuring the overall consistency of the awards process in accordance with FIRST policy and guidelines
• Opportunity to contribute to the successful execution of the competition
• Opportunity to cultivate support for FIRST programs
• Must communicate with their group of Judges prior to their event. This may include email or phone communication starting at least one month before and leading up to the event.
• Work with the Volunteer Coordinator and assist as needed
• Judge Advisors may be asked to recruit, or help recruit Judges. Judge Advisors should work with their Planning Committee and Volunteer Coordinator to understand who will be doing the Judge recruiting.
• Submit Judge Evaluations to FIRST HQ post-event
• Must understand and advise judges regarding any relationships with FRC teams at the event
• Must pass the JA Certification prior to the start of events
• Attend the daily morning meeting if directed by the Event Manager

Experience and Skills Needed

• Minimum of 3 years as a Judge at an FRC event (Exceptions may be granted by FIRST HQ)
• Minimum age: 23
  • Exceptions may be granted by FIRST HQ
• Understand the FIRST mission
• Excellent organizational and communication skills required
• Strong assessment skills
• Strong critical thinking skills
• Strong interpersonal/communication skills
• Ability to work as a member of a team

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

Pre-event training by Chief Judge Advisors and FIRST HQ. Pre-event certification provided by FIRST HQ prior to start of competition season. Judge Advisors are responsible for reviewing materials, slack messages and email blasts beginning in January.

Reporting Relationships and Supervision

Judge Advisors work in partnership with FIRST staff and Program Delivery Partners (PDPs) to deliver a high-quality event experience to teams. JAs collaborate closely with event staff, the Volunteer Coordinator (VC), FIRST staff, and PDPs to ensure a successful event. JAs may also consult with the Co-Chief JAs or FIRST staff on aspects related to their role responsibilities.

* Must read and comply with the Volunteer Handbook