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Event Volunteer Role

Pit Runner

Pit Runners are the communication bridge between teams and event staff. This energetic and team-facing role helps distribute match schedules and guides teams from the Pit area to the competition floor, keeping the event running on time and smoothly.

Volunteer as a Pit Runner

Pit Runners are responsible for ensuring teams receive critical event information and are guided efficiently to the competition area. They may distribute match lists or reminders and help answer basic questions from teams and guests. Pit Runners play a vital role in maintaining match flow and ensuring teams stay informed and supported throughout the day.

Minimum Age: 13 years old

Experience: No FIRST and related field experience required

Training: No pre-event training required

Role Details / Responsibilities:

  • Deliver messages and updates to teams in the Pit area
  • Assist with distribution of printed match schedules or important event communications
  • Escort or direct teams from the Pit area to the competition field as needed
  • Be available to answer questions from teams and spectators about schedules or venue layout
  • Help maintain a professional, welcoming, and organized pit environment
  • 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

Reports to: Varies by program

Currently a Pit Runner and looking for a challenge? Queuer, Practice Field Attendant, or Field Resetter might be great roles for you!

Volunteer as a Pit Runner in two distinct FIRST programs

 Learn more about volunteering as a Pit Runner in each program.

Program Role Details

Pit Runner with FIRST LEGO League Challenge

  • Assigned to support one or more competition tables by helping move teams on schedule
  • Should be comfortable walking, talking to teams, and being a visible support presence
  • Work with Field Manager or Queuer to coordinate timing and match flow support
  • May coordinate with Announcer or Queuer when needed

Role Training:

  • Event-day briefing provided by Field Manager or Queuer

Reports to: Field Manager

Role Resources:

Program Role Details

Pit Runner with FIRST Tech Challenge

  • Should be comfortable walking, talking to teams, and being a visible support presence
  • Work with Lead Queuer to coordinate timing and match flow support

Role Training:

  • Event day training provided by Lead Queuer

Reports to: Lead Queuer

Role Resources:

Championship Role Details

Pit Runner at FIRST Championship

This role is available in the following programs at Championship with the additional requirements below:

FIRST LEGO League Challenge:

  • Distribute messages, match schedules, and updates to teams in a high-energy Championship setting
  • Help guide teams to their scheduled matches and act as a point-of-contact for questions
  • Serve in shifts and collaborate closely with the Lead Robot Game Queuer to maintain match flow
  • Experience:
    • FIRST experience preferred but not required
    • Should be comfortable moving around a large venue and interacting with many teams
  • Championship Volunteer Time Commitment:
    • Thursday and/or Friday, 8:45 AM – 4:00 PM
    • Volunteers may serve full-day or in assigned shifts
  • Number of Volunteers in Role: 6
  • Reports to: Lead Robot Game Queuer

FIRST Tech Challenge:

  • This role is available at Championship with the same requirements as during the season.

Volunteer at a FIRST event near you

Find a local event to volunteer in one of our many event volunteer roles.