Machine Shop Staff

Volunteer as Machine Shop Staff

FIRST Robotics Competition Only

Machine Shop Staff volunteers  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.

Minimum Age: 18 years old (must be post-high school or equivalent)

• Exceptions may be granted by event Volunteer Coordinators after review and approval by the local Program Delivery Partner
  

Experience: Either FIRST or Related Field Experience required

Training: No pre-event training required

• Training will be conducted on site

Role Details:

• 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
• 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 below)
• 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

• Volunteers should focus on the role they are filling at that event. This includes:
  • Helping avoid the appearance of bias by not cheering for one specific team when wearing official event apparel (volunteer shirt or FIRST/Partner staff clothing). Instead, we encourage volunteers to cheer for all teams equally.  
  • Refrain from accessing sensitive event areas unless they are necessary to fulfill your volunteer role for this event. This can include playing field access, scoring table and judging rooms.
  • Wearing volunteer specific apparel (e.g. FTA shirt, Robot Inspector hat, etc) only when filling that specific role.  
• Must read and comply with the Volunteer Handbook

Volunteer Time Commitment:

• Minimum 1 full day commitment
• Preferred 2 full day (Districts) or 3 full day (Regionals)

Reports to: Event Manager

FIRST Championship

• Machine Shop Staff for the Championship Events are typically filled by the company that provides the Machine Shop.
• Championship Volunteer Time Commitment:
  • Volunteers are needed Wednesday Afternoon – Saturday Morning. Can be divided among multiple volunteers for the event.
  • More information with times will be sent before the event.
• Reports to: FIRST Robotics Competition Logistics Specialist