RESOURCE LIBRARY

The Judge Advisor for FIRST Robotics Competition is a key volunteer position. They are responsible for training the Judge Panel pre-event and leading the Judge Panel on-site. Judge Advisors do not participate in selecting awards but rather facilitate that process. This position requires a high level of organization and interpersonal skills and can affect the quality of the event.

The Judge Advisor is submitted by the Planning Committee via the Program Delivery Partner. Once submitted, the individual must be approved through FIRST and the Global Judge Advisors. Once approved the candidate will be contacted and assigned by FIRST.

*Must sign a Conflict of Interest and Disclosure Statement prior to start of service.

Responsibilities

• Complete FIRST’s Data Privacy and Protection training
  • Maintain confidentiality of personal information in compliance with the FIRST Privacy Policy
• Participate in all required Judge Advisor training provided by FIRST and the GlobalJudge Advisors, including reading the Judge manual and other materials yearly
• Ensure the judging panel has completed the require training pre-event & Lead the Judge Panel on-site
• Facilitate award decisions, clarify award guidelines, and ensure the overall consistency of the awards process in accordance with FIRST policy and guidelines noted in the Judge Manual
• Opportunity to contribute to the successful execution of the competition
• Opportunity to cultivate support for FIRST programs
• Must communicate with their group of Judges prior to their event. This may include email or phone communication starting at least one month before and leading up to the event.
• Work with the Volunteer Coordinator and assist as needed
• Judge Advisors may be asked to recruit or help recruit Judges. Judge Advisors should work with their Planning Committee and Volunteer Coordinator to understand who will be doing the Judge recruiting.
• Submit Judge Evaluations to FIRST post-event
• Must understand and advise judges regarding any relationships with FRC teams at the event
• Must pass the JA Certification by the deadline set by FIRST each year
• Attend the daily morning meeting if directed by the Event Manager
• Volunteers should only congregate around the scoring table or playing field as is necessary to fulfill the duties of their volunteer position
• No one in official event apparel (volunteer shirt or FIRST/Partner staff clothing) around the playing field should be openly cheering for one team

Experience and Skills Needed

• Minimum of 3 years as a Judge at an FRC event (Exceptions may be granted by FIRST)
• Minimum age: 23
  • Exceptions may be granted by FIRST 
• Understand the FIRST mission
• Excellent organizational and communication skills required
• Strong assessment skills
• Strong critical thinking skills
• Strong interpersonal/communication skills
• Ability to work as a member of a team

Note: Event schedules vary. Please check the event schedule and talk to your Volunteer Coordinator for detailed information on when you are expected to arrive. Volunteers should arrive on site 15-20 minutes prior to the start of every shift to allow time to check in at the Volunteer Registration table.

Training

Pre-event training by Global Judge Advisors and FIRST. Pre-event certification provided by FIRST prior to start of competition season. Judge Advisors are responsible for reviewing materials, slack messages and email blasts beginning in January.

Reporting Relationships and Supervision

Judge Advisors work in partnership with FIRST staff and Program Delivery Partners (PDPs) to deliver a high-quality event experience to teams. JAs collaborate closely with event staff, the Volunteer Coordinator (VC), FIRST staff, and PDPs to ensure a successful event. JAs may also consult with the Co-Global JAs or FIRST staff on aspects related to their role responsibilities.

* Must read and comply with the Volunteer Handbook