Head Men’s and Women’s Track & Field, Cross Country

Position Summary

Paine College, a historic HBCU, seeks a dynamic, student-centered leader to serve as the Head Men’s and Women’s Track & Field/ Cross Country Coach. The Head Coach is responsible for the overall administration, organization, development, and leadership of the men’s and women’s Track & Field/ Cross Country programs. The successful candidate will foster academic excellence, spiritual development, competitive success, and personal growth while supporting the mission and values of Paine College and its affiliation with the National Christian College Athletic Association.

The Head Coach will recruit and develop student-athletes, oversee daily operations, manage budgets, coordinate competition schedules, and promote a culture of integrity, sportsmanship, and excellence.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Program Leadership

• Provide strategic leadership and vision for the Men’s and Women’s Track & Field/ Cross Country programs.
• Develop and implement comprehensive training and conditioning programs that enhance athletic performance and student-athlete development.
• Foster a positive, inclusive, and competitive team culture aligned with the mission of the College.
• Establish team standards for conduct, academic achievement, and athletic excellence.

Student-Athlete Recruitment

• Identify, recruit, and retain qualified student-athletes who can succeed academically and athletically.
• Develop and maintain relationships with high school, prep school, club, and community coaches.
• Coordinate campus visits and recruitment activities in accordance with institutional and NCCAA guidelines.
• Assist with enrollment and retention efforts for recruited student-athletes.

Coaching and Player Development

• Plan and conduct practices, workouts, competitions, and training sessions.
• Evaluate and improve individual and team performance.
• Monitor student-athlete academic progress and collaborate with academic support services.
• Promote student-athlete wellness, leadership, and life-skills development.

Program Administration

• Manage all aspects of program operations, including scheduling, travel, equipment, uniforms, and facilities.
• Prepare and administer program budgets responsibly.
• Maintain accurate records and reports related to team operations.
• Ensure compliance with all institutional, conference, and NCCAA regulations.

Fundraising and Community Engagement

• Assist with fundraising initiatives, alumni engagement, and community outreach activities.
• Represent the College positively at campus, community, and athletic events.
• Promote the visibility and growth of the Men’s and Women’s Track & Field/ Cross Country programs.
• Support athletic department initiatives and special events.

Staff Supervision

• Recruit, train, supervise, and evaluate assistant coaches and support staff.
• Coordinate responsibilities among coaching staff to ensure effective program management.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution required; Master’s degree preferred.
• Collegiate coaching and/or competitive experience in Track & Field/ Cross Country.
• Demonstrated success in recruiting student-athletes.
• Knowledge of Track & Field/ Cross Country training methodologies, event management, and athlete development.
• Strong organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to mentor and support diverse student populations.
• Valid driver’s license and ability to travel extensively.
• CPR, First Aid, and AED certification (or ability to obtain upon hire).

Preferred Qualifications

• Previous head coaching experience at the collegiate level.
• Experience working at an HBCU or faith-based institution.
• Demonstrated success in building and growing athletic programs.
• Experience with budget management, fundraising, and community engagement.
• Strong commitment to student-athlete academic achievement and holistic development.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Leadership and team-building skills.
• Effective recruitment and talent evaluation abilities.
• Strong understanding of NCAA, NCCAA, and collegiate athletics operations.
• Ability to work evenings, weekends, and travel as required.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and student success.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to demonstrate and supervise athletic activities.
• Ability to stand, walk, run, and travel for extended periods.
• Ability to lift and move athletic equipment weighing up to 50 pounds.

Mission Alignment

The Head Men’s and Women’s Track & Field / Cross Country Coach is expected to support the educational mission of Paine College by fostering academic achievement, leadership development, Christian values, community service, and competitive excellence. The successful candidate will serve as a mentor and role model while contributing positively to the overall student-athlete experience.

Application Materials

Interested candidates should submit:

• Cover Letter
• Resume/Curriculum Vitae
• List of Three Professional References
• Copies of Academic Transcripts (if requested)

Paine College is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to creating an inclusive environment that values diversity, academic excellence, and student success.