Application Guide

How to Apply for Contract Curriculum Writer , Robotics Education (Remote)

at NYC FIRST

🏢 About NYC FIRST

NYC FIRST has been a transformative force in STEM education for 25 years, inspiring tens of thousands of young New Yorkers through robotics and hands-on learning. Their city-wide STEM Centers and partnerships with schools create a unique opportunity to shape the future of education and make a lasting impact on students' lives.

About This Role

As a Contract Curriculum Writer, you will be a key architect of a four-year high school robotics curriculum that will anchor a New York State CTE Pathway. This role is perfect for someone who wants to blend their deep robotics expertise with curriculum design, directly influencing how students across NYC learn and engage with STEM.

💡 A Day in the Life

A typical day might involve reviewing existing curriculum materials, drafting lesson plans or unit outlines, and participating in virtual meetings with the advisory board to align on scope and sequence. You'll also spend time researching standards and best practices in robotics education, and revising content based on feedback, all while managing your own schedule and deadlines.

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🎯 Who NYC FIRST Is Looking For

  • Deep experience in robotics education, including familiarity with FIRST Tech Challenge (FTC) or similar programs.
  • Proven curriculum development skills, especially in high school settings, with knowledge of standards like NYS CS, Engineering, and CDOS.
  • Ability to collaborate with an advisory board and adapt to feedback while maintaining a clear vision.
  • Excellent remote communication and time management skills, with availability for meetings between 9:00-6:00 EST.

📝 Tips for Applying to NYC FIRST

1

Highlight any experience you have with FIRST programs, especially FTC, and be explicit about how you've integrated it into curriculum.

2

Showcase your familiarity with NYS learning standards (CS, Engineering, CDOS) and how you've aligned curriculum to them in past projects.

3

Provide concrete examples of curriculum you've written, including scope and sequence documents, lesson plans, or unit overviews.

4

Emphasize your ability to work independently in a remote, contract role, and your flexibility with EST hours.

5

Tailor your cover letter to address the specific goal of creating a CTE pathway and your vision for a four-year robotics curriculum.

✉️ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter

["Your passion for robotics education and how it aligns with NYC FIRST's mission to empower young problem solvers.", "Specific examples of curriculum you've developed that align with standards and promote student engagement.", 'Your experience with FIRST Tech Challenge or similar robotics programs, and how you can bring that insight to the curriculum.', 'Your ability to collaborate with an advisory board and your vision for a cohesive, four-year scope and sequence.']

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🔍 Research Before Applying

To stand out, make sure you've researched:

  • → Explore NYC FIRST's website to understand their STEM Centers, programs, and impact on NYC education.
  • → Familiarize yourself with the FIRST Tech Challenge program, including its yearly challenges and resources.
  • → Review New York State learning standards for Computer Science, Engineering, and CDOS to understand alignment requirements.
  • → Look into NYC FIRST's recent initiatives and news to understand their current priorities and how this role fits in.
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💬 Prepare for These Interview Topics

Based on this role, you may be asked about:

1 How would you approach developing a four-year robotics curriculum that aligns with NYS standards and the FIRST Tech Challenge framework?
2 Describe a time you had to balance multiple stakeholders' input while developing curriculum. How did you handle it?
3 How do you ensure curriculum is accessible and engaging for a diverse range of high school students?
4 What is your experience with remote collaboration and managing your time in a contract role?
5 How would you integrate the 'Portrait of a Graduate' competencies into the robotics curriculum?
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⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Don't submit a generic cover letter—make sure it's tailored to NYC FIRST and this specific role.
  • Avoid focusing solely on your robotics experience without connecting it to curriculum design and standards.
  • Don't overlook the remote and contract nature of the role—emphasize your ability to work independently and manage your schedule.

📅 Application Timeline

This position is open until filled. However, we recommend applying as soon as possible as roles at mission-driven organizations tend to fill quickly.

Typical hiring timeline:

1

Application Review

1-2 weeks

2

Initial Screening

Phone call or written assessment

3

Interviews

1-2 rounds, usually virtual

✓

Offer

Congratulations!

Ready to Apply?

Good luck with your application to NYC FIRST!

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