Mentor for High School Robotics Team (Studio City)

About This Job

Bridges Academy, located in Studio City and operating as a non-profit organization, is in search of a mentor for its high school robotics team. This opportunity is for the upcoming season, with potential for continued involvement in future years. It is an ideal position for individuals who have a passion for robot construction or engineering in general, enjoy guiding young people, and wish to contribute positively to their community. Participants will work with a dedicated and enthusiastic group of students in a rewarding endeavor that combines hard work with enjoyment. The program has historically received support from major corporations including NASA, Tesla, Boeing, Home Depot, and SolidWorks.

Role and Qualifications

The primary need is for a Technical Mentor with an engineering background. Extensive expertise in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, and Fabrication/Construction is essential. A secondary, though not mandatory, advantage would be proficiency in 3D Modeling and 3D Printing, particularly with software such as OnShape or SolidWorks. Familiarity with robotics applications or direct experience with the FIRST Robotics Competition is also considered highly beneficial.

Bridges Academy is a private institution serving twice-exceptional (2e) students, each with unique learning profiles. Every student demonstrates significant talent in at least one area while also navigating specific cognitive or learning challenges.

Time Commitment and Schedule

The commitment is divided into two distinct periods:

• During the Fall Semester (September through December), the team convenes once per week on Wednesdays from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM.
• Throughout the Spring competition season (January to mid-March), meetings are held Monday through Thursday from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM for approximately eight weeks. Dinner is provided for the team on these days.

While preference is given to candidates who can attend all sessions, the program is open to discussing flexible arrangements if full attendance is not feasible.

Competition Details

The team participates in the Southern California regional of the international FIRST competition in mid-March. For mentors, the expenses for food and lodging during this three-day event are covered annually. This year\'s competition will be held in Ventura/Port Hueneme. Locations vary by year and have previously included Los Angeles, Long Beach, San Diego, and Pomona.

Compensation and Career Path

This position is primarily a volunteer role within the school\'s after-school program. However, a yearly stipend is offered, the amount of which is determined by the mentor\'s experience and availability and is subject to negotiation with the Director of the Robotics Program and the Head of School. Furthermore, for individuals considering a career in education, this mentorship has served as a pathway for some previous mentors to secure full-time teaching positions at the academy.

Previous experience in teaching, working with neurodiverse students, or involvement with a robotics team is considered a significant asset.

• Compensation: A modest annual stipend based on experience and availability.
• Employment Type: Part-time / Volunteer
• Job Title: Bridges Academy Robotics Technical Mentor