FLL Challenge Lead Research Coach

FLL Challenge Research Coach
Part-time | Regionals: Sept–Nov/Dec (States training through Dec /Jan if advancing) | Washington Yu Ying Public Charter School (220 Taylor St NE, Washington, DC 20017) | 2–3 hours/week

About the Role

Lead the Innovation Project side of an Odin Wise Academy FIRST® LEGO® League Challenge team. You’ll partner with the team’s FLL Robotics Coach, each focusing on your respective area, while staying closely coordinated so students experience a unified season. You’ll guide students (grades 4–8) through the full Innovation Project process: identifying a real-world problem, developing a creative solution, and presenting their findings to judges at competition. You’ll be expected to run classes by keeping the team on track across both areas. Travel for competition dates is part of the role.

Compensation (Stipend)

• Regionals (Sept–Nov/Dec): $900–$1,050 total stipend, based on experience and team assignment.
• If advancing to States (training through Dec): additional $300–$400 stipend.

What You’ll Do

• Plan and run weekly practices focused on the Innovation Project: problem identification, solution development, research, and presentation skills.
• Guide students through all required Innovation Project steps — identifying a real-world problem tied to the season’s theme, developing an innovative solution, and sharing it with relevant experts or community members.
• Coordinate closely with the FLL Robotics Coach to align on team progress, Core Values integration, and competition preparation.
• Hold a weekly check-in with the FLL Robotics Supervisor and Director of Robotics to coordinate strategy, report team progress, and surface needs or blockers.
• Teach teamwork, research skills, and presentation etiquette; ensure a positive, safe, and inclusive environment.
• Prepare students for the Innovation Project judging session at competition, including their 5-minute presentation to a panel of judges.
• Provide brief weekly updates to parents on student progress.
• Travel to and supervise students at official competitions (regional qualifier and, if applicable, state championship).
• Coordinate with Odin Wise HQ on any needs or issues — competition logistics and practice announcements are handled by admin.

What You Bring

• Strong research, critical thinking, and communication skills; comfort guiding others through a structured problem-solving process.
• Prior coaching, mentoring, or teaching experience with grades 4–8.
• Ability to facilitate group discussions, manage a team session independently, and keep students engaged and on task.
• Reliable transportation; weekend competition availability; ability to pass a background check; valid U.S. work authorization.

Nice-to-Have

• Previous FLL coaching or participant experience, particularly with the Innovation Project.
• Background or interest in STEM, public policy, social impact, or research-based fields.
• CPR/First Aid certification.

Time Commitment

• Regionals (Sept–Nov): 2 practices/week alongside or in coordination with the FLL Robotics Coach.
• If advancing to States: additional practices through December/January.
• Competitions: 1–2 full Saturdays (regional qualifier and, if applicable, state championship); travel within VA/DC/MD.
• Brief weekly check-in with the FLL Robotics Supervisor and Director of Robotics.

Support You’ll Receive

• Season playbook, challenge materials, and Innovation Project resources.
• Support from the FLL Robotics Supervisor and Director of Robotics for strategy guidance — you drive day-to-day execution with your team.
• Close collaboration with the paired FLL Robotics Coach to ensure a cohesive team experience.
• Access to equipment, challenge sets, and mentor resources.

About Odin Wise Academy

Odin Wise Academy is a leading tutoring and education support company dedicated to empowering students and helping them reach their full potential. We offer a wide range of educational services, including personalized tutoring, academic support, and enrichment programs. Our team of experienced educators and subject matter experts are committed to providing high-quality instruction and fostering a love for learning in every student we work with. With a focus on evidence-based teaching methods and a holistic approach to education, we strive to make a positive impact on students' academic performance and overall development.

EEO Statement

We are committed to creating a diverse and welcoming workplace that includes partners with diverse backgrounds and experiences. We provide equal employment opportunities to all persons regardless of race, color, ancestry, citizenship, national origin, religion, veteran status, disability, genetic characteristic or information, age, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, family status, pregnancy, or other legally protected status (collectively, “protected statuses”). We do not tolerate unlawful discrimination in any employment decisions, including recruiting, hiring, compensation, promotion, benefits, discipline, termination, job assignments or training. People of color, women, LGBTQIA+, veterans and persons with disabilities are encouraged to apply.

Disclaimer

The above job definition information has been designed to indicate the general nature and level of work performed by employees within this classification. It is not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities, and qualifications required of employees assigned to this job. Job duties and responsibilities are subject to change based on changing business needs and conditions.

Join us and be part of something bigger. Apply today!

Job Type: Part-time

Pay: $1,000.00 - $1,250.00 per year

Application Question(s):

• Do you have FLL Challenge Competition or Robotics experience?
• Class hours will be between 6:30 PM and 7:30 PM on Wednesdays and Thursdays. Are you available during those times?

Experience:

• teaching/tutoring: 1 year (Preferred)

Ability to Commute:

• Washington, DC 20017 (Required)

Willingness to travel:

• 100% (Required)

Work Location: In person