R.E.A.L. Lab Coordinator

­­­­­­­­­­­R.E.A.L. Lab Coordinator

AmeriCorps Service Position (300 or 450 hours term)

Job Summary:

JVRA, in partnership with AmeriCorps, is seeking an enthusiastic and driven college student to join our team as R.E.A.L. Lab Coordinator. This service role involves leading and managing the Robotics Engineering and LEGO Lab (R.E.A.L. Lab) program. The coordinator will provide hands-on, STEAM-focused education to students from grades 3 through 12, fostering creativity, problem-solving, and teamwork through the world of robotics and LEGO engineering.

This position offers a flexible term of service of either 300 or 450 hours, making it an ideal opportunity for college students looking to gain experience in education, robotics, and community service.

Key Responsibilities:

- Program Delivery: Lead and instruct students in the R.E.A.L. Lab, utilizing LEGO Spike Education Kits and LEGO MINDSTORM software to teach key concepts in robotics, programming, engineering, and the art of design.

- Curriculum Implementation: Adapt lesson plans to accommodate different age groups and skill levels, ensuring all students are both challenged and inspired.

- Hands-On Instruction: Guide students through building and programming robots, encouraging creativity, technical proficiency, and teamwork.

- Competition Facilitation: Organize in-class LEGO Robotics competitions, creating a fun and engaging learning environment.

- Program Flexibility: Work closely with schools to tailor the program structure (full-day or multiple sessions) based on your availability.

- Support & Collaboration: Work with JVRA’s Executive Board to assist schools in securing funding through grant writing and fundraising efforts to make the R.E.A.L. Lab accessible to all students.

Qualifications:

-  Educational Background: Current enrollment in a college or university program, preferably in Education, Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field.

- Technical Skills: Familiarity with or willingness to learn about LEGO Spike Kits, LEGO MINDSTORM, or other educational robotics platforms.

- Communication Skills: Strong verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to engage and inspire students of varying ages and skill levels.

- Problem-Solving: Excellent problem-solving skills, with the ability to guide students through technical and creative challenges.

- Teamwork & Leadership: Ability to collaborate effectively with students, school staff, and JVRA team members while also taking on a leadership role in the lab.

AmeriCorps Service Term:

- 1 Year Term: AmeriCorps through Strengthen ND starts November 1st and runs through October 31st

- 300 Hours Term: Ideal for students seeking a shorter-term commitment while gaining valuable experience in education and community service.

- 450 Hours Term: For those looking to dedicate more time to the program and develop a deeper impact within the schools and communities served.

Compensation & Benefits:

- AmeriCorps Benefits: Eligible participants will receive a monthly living stipend, and an education award upon successfully completing the service term, which can be used for college tuition or student loans. Members must complete a minimum of 1 hour per month to be eligible for their living stipend each month.

- Professional Development: Gain hands-on experience in STEAM education, leadership, and community engagement, building skills that are valuable for future careers.

- Networking Opportunities: Connect with professionals in the fields of education, engineering, and technology, and expand your professional network.

- Internship Credit: College Students with majors in Education, Computer Science, or Engineering may be eligible to receive college credit for this job. 

Application Instructions:

Interested candidates should submit a resume and a brief cover letter outlining their interest in the R.E.A.L. Lab Coordinator position, relevant experience, and commitment to community service through AmeriCorps.

Applications can be submitted to Jordan Montgomery at jordan.montgomery@jvrobotics.org

Questions about the R.E.A.L Lab or AmeriCorps can be directed to Jordan Montgomery at 701-320-9698. If there is no answer, please leave a voicemail stating your name, that this is related to the R.E.A.L Lab Coordinator position, and a return phone number. 

JVRA is committed to creating an inclusive and diverse environment including strict Equal Employment Opportunities in the Bylaws: 

Article X. Equal Employment Opportunity

Section 1          JVRA and its Board, Executive Officers, employees, and committees shall comply with equal opportunity laws as set forth in Executive Orders No. 11246 and No. 11375.

Section 2          No applicant or employee of JVRA shall be appointed, demoted, or dismissed from any position, or in any way favored or discriminated against with respect to employment in the department because of Race, Color, Religion or creed, National origin or ancestry, Sex (including sexual orientation and gender identity), Age, Physical or mental disability, Veteran status, Genetic information, Citizenship, or any other discrimination prohibited by federal or state law. 

Section 3          The application of this principle shall encompass all activities including recruitment, examinations, certifications, appointment, training, promotions, retentions, and all other related personnel functions.