Off-Season Event Volunteer Descriptions

This list is not exhaustive and some off-season events may have unique roles. Please see the website or information for each off-season event to see unique volunteer roles if any.

The volunteer timeframe will also depend on the off-season event.

Most offseason volunteer roles are only one day in FRC offseason events.

However, the following volunteers would be needed on set up day and event day – See timeframes below.

  • Field Assembly and Disassembly (can be different people)
  • Pit Administration and Supervisor
  • FTA
  • Load In – Load Out Crew (can be different people)

Field Assembly Timeframe = 9:00am-5:00pm (Friday)
Field Disassembly = ~6:00pm-10:00pm (Saturday)

Head Referee/Lead Queuer/Pit Admin = 5:00pm-9:00pm (Friday) & 7:00am-6:00pm (Saturday)

Queuers/Referees/field-reset/scoring table roles = 7:00am-6:00pm (Saturday) These roles can be done in half day shifts if necessary.

Audio/Visual Attendant

The Audio/Visual (A/V) Attendant for FIRST Robotics Competition assists with lighting, sound, and any projections shown during the event. May be asked to help manage the live stream to create an exciting, cohesive experience for web spectators, and create an archive for teams to relive the event.

**The specific role responsibilities vary by district. Please reach out to your district leadership for specific responsibilities.

Responsibilities

  • Wear safety glasses as directed by the Event Manager or FTA
  • Set-up and take down all audio and visual needs for the event
  • Create an exciting experience for online spectators
  • Switch between available video feeds to create cohesive, exciting story

Experience and Skills Needed

  • FIRST experience not required, but preferred
  • Minimum age: 13
  • Basic knowledge of the competition game, rules of play, and flow of an event
  • Experience with equipment necessary to perform required duties in a professional manner. Thismay be specifically spelled out in the contract.
  • Work and interact with volunteers, team members and students, and other contracted 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
  • Direct Supervision and On-Site Support: Event Manager

Event Photographer

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. 

Responsibilities

  • Possess and bring camera equipment (not cell phones). The event will not be responsible for or provide equipment.
  • Work with the 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
  • Minimum age: 13 (preferred 18+)
  • 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

Field Assembly and Disassembly 

Field Assembly and Disassembly volunteers for FIRST Robotics Competition 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. Tools and hardware are provided, and volunteers are not required to bring any additional materials with them to the event. 

Responsibilities 

  • Assemble playing field and practice field including electronics
  • Strict Adherence to the FIRST safety practices, specifically for lifting and other physically challenging tasks, including adherence to the Event Rules and Safety Manual. This includes wearing safety glasses, wearing closed toed/heeled shoes, wearing appropriate clothing and adherence to any health/safety requirements in place for the event.
  • 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 the truck, as needed

Experience and Skills Required

  • FIRST experience not required
  • Minimum age: 13 (preferred 18+)
  • 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

Field Resetter 

Field Resetter volunteers for FIRST Robotics Competition 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 during matches
  • Prepare the field at end of each 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
  • Minimum age: 13 (preferred 15+)
  • Friendly personality
  • Strong interpersonal/communication skills as a part of a team
  • Ability to take charge; be assertive, but tactful in safeguarding team members and volunteers on and around the field
  • Ability to move about the field and stand for long periods of time
  • Both teens and adults encouraged

FIRST Technical Advisor Assistant (FTAA) 

The FIRST Technical Advisor Assistant for FIRST Robotics Competition is a key volunteer position. They help keep the FIRST Robotics Competition field and event running smoothly and work in collaboration with the FIRST Technical Advisor. The position requires a high level of responsibility and can impact the quality of the event. 

*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
  • Provide backup to the FIRST Technical Advisor (FTA)
  • Work with volunteers to monitor wireless communications and other aspects of the event using available diagnostic tools
  • Be aware of robot connection problems that arise and be ready to quickly diagnose and assist teams to assess and fix the problems
  • Assist teams with robot technical issues on the field including but not limited to robot connection issues
  • Review the Roles and Expectations document for the FTAA
  • Participate in training opportunities offered by FIRST
  • Attend the daily morning meeting if directed by the Event Manager

Experience and Skills Needed

  • FIRST experience required; Understanding of event match cycles recommended
  • 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
  • Familiarity or willingness to become familiar with one or more of the following roles/areas: robot control system, field management system, field electronics and diagnostic tools.
  • Should be ready to step in should the FTA become unavailable
  • Knowledge of the competition game and rules
  • Obtain a radio from event management office to keep aware of event information and issues; return it to office at end of day (as applicable)
  • Strong interpersonal/communication skills
  • Ability to stand for long periods of time and move about playing field

Lead Queuer 

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
  • Stagezand 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 the 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 Partner
  • 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 match process is helpful
  • Strong leadership, interpersonal and communication skills
  • Self-directed individual
  • Ability to stand for long periods of time

Load-In/Out Crew 

The Load-In/Out Crew for FIRST Robotics Competition is critical to the safety of the teams, volunteers and the public during these processes. This is a physically active position that requires facilitating smooth team traffic flow throughout the facility when the teams are transporting their materials, including their robots, in and out of the event venue at the start and end of an event. A volunteer does not need to fulfill both roles of Load-In Crew and Load-Out Crew; instead, they could fill either position independent of the other. 

Responsibilities 

  • Arrive early and walk-through Load-In plan with Event Manager to help determine best placements for all volunteers both inside and outside the venue. Ensure that you understand the flow and are prepared to communicate it to other volunteers and teams.
  • Work with the Safety Manager to ensure safety of all team members and volunteers that are taking part in the load-in/out process
  • Direct teams as they are transporting robots, tool crates, etc. into and out of the event venue
  • Keep aisles, hallways and team traffic pathways clear in the Pit at all times
  • Know the location to all important areas of the venue (e.g., first aid station, Pit area, etc.) to provide adequate instruction as requested
  • One volunteer may be asked to be the lead of this role to help direct others. Talk with your Volunteer Coordinator to understand who will be the lead.
  • May be asked to work outside directing traffic in the load-in/out area and/or teams entering, or exiting, the venue

Experience and Skills Needed

  • FIRST experience not required
  • Minimum age: 13
  • Approachable and friendly personality
  • Strong interpersonal/communication skills
  • Ability to take charge; be assertive, but tactful
  • Physically active position; ability to stand for long periods; walk the length of the facility
  • General knowledge of facility and event layout (can learn this on-site before shift begins)
  • Adults preferred but older teens may be considered

Pit Administration Supervisor 

The Pit Administration Supervisor for FIRST Robotics Competition is a key volunteer position. They manage all activities in the Pit, along with Pit area operations including coordination of the Pit Administration station, team interface, and collaborate with Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs). 

Responsibilities 

  • Maintain confidentiality of personal information in compliance with the FIRST Privacy Policy
  • Attend Volunteer Meeting and conduct training for Pit Administrator, Spare Parts Attendant, Machine Shop Shuttle Driver, and Pit Announcer (if one is assigned)
  • Set up the Pit Administration station and direct completion of team registration packet assembly prior to start of the event
  • Prohibit teams and guests from entering Pit prior to scheduled opening time; facilitate the on-time departure of teams after Pit closes
  • Ensure teams complete and submit required forms; coordinate resolution for teams that do not bring required forms to the event
  • Supervise Pit Administrators, including the Pit Announcer (if one is assigned)
  • Customer-facing, must be friendly and always behave in a graciously professional manner
  • Answer questions from teams and visitors in the Pit area
  • Primary interface with the EMTs; collaborate with EMTs on preparing Medical and Non-Medical Incident Reports as required
  • Return all team presentation materials to competing teams
  • Obtain a radio from the event management office to keep aware of event information and issues, return it to the office at end of day
  • Supervise Pit station break down process/repacking of Pit travel crates during the final award ceremony
  • Monitor team load out
  • Attend the daily morning meeting if directed by the Event Manager

Experience and Skills Needed

  • 1-2 years of experience as a FIRST Pit volunteer preferred, but not required
  • Minimum age: 21
  • Exceptions may be granted by event Volunteer Coordinators after review and approval by the local Program Delivery Partner
  • Ability to “take charge”; be assertive, but tactful
  • General knowledge of facility and event layout
  • Strong interpersonal/communication skills
  • Strong organizational skills
  • Self-directed individual
  • Ability to work as a member of a team
  • Must be willing to commit to the duration of the event and work extended hours

Pit Administrator

The Pit Administrator role for FIRST Robotics Competition 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 

  • Maintain confidentiality of personal information in compliance with the FIRST Privacy Policy
  • 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 Necessary

  • 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
  • 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

Queuer 

The Queuer role for FIRST Robotics Competition 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 the 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
  • Minimum age: 13 (Preferred: 15+)
  • 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

Referee

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. 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 an 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 Room Assistant

The Volunteer Room Assistant for FIRST Robotics Competition 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 work with the Volunteer Coordinator/Pit Administration Supervisor to 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
  • Minimum age: 13
  • 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