RESOURCE LIBRARY

The Judge Advisor Assistant (JAA) role for FIRST Robotics Competition assists the Judge Advisor (JA) throughout the event. Collaborates with event management staff to ensure the judges are meeting the competition schedule and oversees the food and drinks delivered to the judge room. The JAA does not interview teams or participate in the awards selection process.

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

Responsibilities

• Ensure correct set-up for the judge rooms; keep rooms organized and clean throughout event
• Organize and ensure all materials and supplies needed are available
• Assist Judge Advisor to keep judge panel on schedule and meet deadlines
• Provide clerical assistance, such as typing up award scripts on laptop 
• Check with event management for specific event/on-site communication expectations. This may or may not include an event radio
• Obtain a radio from event management office (when available) to keep aware of event information and issues; inform Judge Advisor and Judge Panel of schedule changes
• Ensure all Judges sign a Volunteer Conflict of Interest and Disclosure Statement (if needed)
• Breakdown the Judge Room at the end of the competition, repack FIRST material (if applicable)
• Serve as a FIRST Impact Award/Dean's List Award Interview Room Runner (if applicable) 
• May be asked to assist with distribution of awards to teams during the Awards Ceremony
• Attend the daily morning meeting if directed by the Judge Advisor
• Perform other duties as assigned by Judge Advisor
• Volunteers should only congregate around the scoring table or playing field as is necessary to fulfill the duties of their volunteer position
• No one in official event apparel (volunteer shirt or FIRST/Partner staff clothing) around the playing field should be openly cheering for one team

Experience and Skills Needed

• FIRST experience not required
• 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 Progam Delivery Partner
• Approachable and friendly personality
• Strong interpersonal/communication skills
• Strong writing and organizational skills
• Basic computer skills
• Ability to keep information confidential

Note: Event schedules vary. Please check the event schedule and talk to your Volunteer Coordinator and Judge Advisor 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

The Judge Advisor Assistant is provided with a checklist of responsibilities before or at the event. The Judge Advisor provides guidance during the event.

Reporting Relationships and Supervision

• Direct Supervision and On-Site Support: Judge Advisor and/or Event Manager 

* Must read and comply with the Volunteer Handbook.