VASFA Coding & Robotics Instructor- Space Adventure Camp

Science Systems and Applications, Inc. (SSAI) is seeking a Coding & Robotics Instructor to join the Space Adventure Camp team at the Virginia Space Flight Academy (VASFA), located at NASA Wallops Flight Facility. The Coding & Robotics Instructor at Space Adventure Camp develops and delivers an innovative coding and robotics curriculum for campers aged 11-16. This includes hands-on learning, integrating new technology, and connecting lessons to behind-the-scenes tours at NASA Wallops Flight Facility. As a Coding & Robotics Instructor, you’ll have the exciting opportunity to guide campers through hands-on experiences in programming, robotics, and cutting-edge technology, preparing them for future careers in the aerospace industry and beyond. This position blends the realms of space exploration and education to inspire the next generation of coders, engineers, and robotics enthusiasts. This role involves leadership, mentorship, and ensuring a safe and inclusive camp environment.  This is a temporary position. Pre and Post Camp are telework. Position is on-site during the 8 week camp program; Food and Lodging are provided.

Key Responsibilities

1. Coding & Robotics Curriculum Research & Development:

• Design and develop engaging lesson plans and projects focused on coding, robotics, and automation for Base Camp, ages 11 – 15, and Advanced Coding & Robotics Camp, ages 12 – 16.
• Lessons include hands-on learning experiences that cater to age groups and skill levels.
• Lessons incorporate relevant coding and robotics advancements in aerospace technology into the curriculum.
• Lessons integrate real-world examples from activities highlighted at NASA, NOAA, Rocket Lab, and Virginia Spaceport Authority.
• Integrate space exploration themes and real-world applications into the curriculum to inspire creativity and curiosity among camp participants.
• Collaborate with other instructors to incorporate STEM principles into coding and robotics activities, highlighting the interdisciplinary nature of aerospace and technology.
• Facilitate cross-disciplinary projects that combine coding, robotics, and science concepts to simulate real-world space missions and exploration scenarios.
• Showcase the interconnectedness of coding and robotics with other fields, such as physics, mathematics, and engineering.
• Stay abreast of emerging technologies and educational trends in coding and robotics to enhance the camp experience.  

 2. Instruction and Facilitation

• Implement a comprehensive coding and robotics curriculum that meets the needs and interests of the camp’s target populations and ensures its delivery in a safe and high-quality manner.
• Deliver interactive and informative lessons that inspire curiosity and critical thinking among camp participants.
• Deliver interactive workshops and coding labs that introduce campers to basic programming concepts like iterative design and flow control, as well as Python and block coding.
• Guide students in designing, building, and programming robots using LEGO Spike Prime and Arduino.
• Organize and oversee robotics competitions and challenges where campers can apply their coding skills to navigate obstacles, complete missions, and solve complex problems.
• Support campers with assistance and technical support as they build and refine their robotic designs.
• Encourage teamwork and sportsmanship while promoting innovation and creativity in robotics projects.
• Foster a collaborative and inclusive learning environment where campers can explore, experiment, and problem-solve together.
• Offer personalized feedback and assistance to campers as they work on projects and experiments.
• Demonstrate proper safety procedures and techniques during hands-on activities to ensure a secure learning environment.
• Collaborate with the leadership team and counselors to adapt the camp curriculum to meet the needs of campers when needed.
   

3. Mentorship and Career Guidance

• Serve as a mentor and role model for campers, sharing your passion and expertise in coding, robotics, and technology and offering insights into potential career pathways.
• Facilitate opportunities for campers to connect with industry professionals, participate in tech challenges, and explore internship or apprenticeship programs.

 4. Management and Operations

• Work with camp directors to ensure appropriate time is secured for instruction and activities.
• Create a positive and supportive environment for camp staff by proactively identifying needs and facilitating solutions.
• Foster a positive work environment that promotes teamwork, creativity, and accountability.
• Participate in other camp activities and roles as needed.
• Maintain clear and positive communication with all camp staff.
• Participate in weekly pre and post-camp crew meetings.
   

5. Camper Safety and Well-Being

• Follow camp procedures and safety protocols and implement crisis and risk management procedures in accordance with camp standards and regulations.
• Monitor camper health and well-being and coordinate with camp directors to secure medical professionals as needed.
• Work with camp directors and staff to address camper behavior, assess its appropriateness, enforce appropriate safety regulations and emergency procedures, and apply proper behavior management techniques.
   

6. Community Relations

• Be an exemplary role model by displaying a positive attitude, interest, and motivation while working with staff, campers, other team members, and community partners.
• Maintain a professional working relationship with all partnering organizations, including NASA, NOAA, Rocket Lab, Virginia Spaceport Authority, and various community and business partners.
• Build positive relationships to promote the camp.
   

7. Materials and Resource Management

• Identify and procure supplies, materials, and equipment needed to implement the coding & robotics curriculum and oversee their inventory and organization throughout the camp season.
• Assist camp directors with coordinating the logistics for facilities, resources, equipment, and transportation for coding & robotics instruction.
• Responsible for managing and caring for all coding & robotics program areas’ physical facilities and equipment.
• Implement risk management procedures.
   

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree (in progress) in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Robotics, or a related field 
• Experience in programming languages such as Python, Java, C++, or Scratch.
• Proficiency in robotics platforms and tools such as LEGO Mindstorms, Arduino, Raspberry Pi, or similar.
• Previous teaching or mentoring experience with youth in coding, robotics, or STEM education settings.
• Strong communication skills with the ability to explain complex concepts in a clear and accessible manner.
• Strong organizational and interpersonal skills.
• Work as a member of a team and complete tasks with minimal supervision.
• Ensuring the health and safety of the campers and staff is a priority.
• Display maturity of judgment and behavior.
• Current CPR and First Aid certification (or willingness to obtain).
• Visual and auditory ability to identify and respond to environmental and other hazards related to the activity.
• Physical ability to respond appropriately to situations requiring first aid. Must be able to assist campers in an emergency (fire, evacuation, illness, or injury) and possess the strength and endurance needed to maintain constant supervision of campers.
• Ability to work in an outdoor environment in hot/humid conditions.
• Willingness to live in a camp setting and work irregular hours. 
• Must be a U.S. Citizen.
• Must be able to pass a NASA and criminal background investigation.
• Must pass drug and alcohol screen.
• During pre-camp season work, you must be able to work independently and remotely. 
• Must work the entire 4-month summer camp operation, including the pre-camp season.
• Work full-time during the summer camp season; other work-related activities are not permitted during camp operations as maximum flexibility is required.
• Must possess a valid driver’s license. 
• Maintain appropriate interpersonal and personal boundaries.
• Adheres to VASFA safety protocols and requirements.
• Upholds in a highly professional manner.  

EOE, including disability/vets

Physical Requirements:  While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to stand, walk, and use hands to touch, handle or feel objects, tools or controls. The employee frequently is required to talk and hear and occasionally required to reach with hands and arms and stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl. Must regularly lift and/or move up to 10 pounds, and occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, peripheral vision, depth perception and the ability to adjust focus.