Head Coach, Cross Country and Distance Track

About the role

Palm Beach Atlantic University (PBA) invites applications for the full-time position of Head Coach, Cross Country and Distance Track. We are seeking a dynamic and energetic leader focused on the comprehensive management of the Cross Country and Distance Track programs and whole-person development of student athletes.

Responsibilities

• Supports the mission of Sailfish Athletics to be a premier Christian program competing at the highest level while preparing students to be lifelong leaders and outstanding citizens in their communities.
• Leads all aspects of a competitive program, including daily operations, team practices, competitions, and overall performance.
• Recruits, develops, and graduates student-athletes who uphold the academic and character standards of the university and department.
• Manages all logistical aspects of the program, including scheduling practices, games, transportation/accommodations and travel itineraries for road games with the approval of the Athletic Director and in coordination with the Assistant to the Athletic Director.
• Mentors student-athletes in their personal and spiritual growth, encouraging a balance of academic, athletic, and faith development.
• Fosters a team culture of self-discipline, respect, and teamwork, while encouraging each student-athlete to thrive in their university experience.
• Prepares, oversees, and manages the program’s budget, ensuring all financial activities are in compliance with university guidelines as well as SSC and NCAA rules and regulations.
• Ensures responsible allocation of funds for travel, equipment, and other program needs, maintaining transparency and accountability in budget management.
• Recruits and hires assistant coaches and team managers, ensuring competency, and that they effectively contribute to the program and support the growth of student-athletes.
• Supervises, mentors, and guides assistant coaches and team managers.
• Holds regular meetings to ensure support staff have clear direction and expectations for practices and competitions.
• Provides regular feedback to and professional development opportunities for support staff.
• Ensures that all aspects of the program adhere to NCAA, SSC, and university rules and regulations.
• Attends mandatory compliance and departmental meetings, stays current on NCAA and SSC policies.
• Represents the university at SSC and national meetings as assigned, contributing to the advancement of the program and university athletics.
• Collaborates with the Assistant Director of Athletic Communications to coordinate program marketing, media, and public relations to increase visibility and support for the program.
• Supports fundraising efforts by engaging with donors, facilitating charitable giving, and helping with fundraising events that benefit PBA Athletics.
• Represents the program and university at community outreach events, alumni gatherings, and other public relations opportunities to build relationships and increase support for PBA Athletics.
• Fosters a positive image for the program within the university and local community by emphasizing the importance of faith, academics, and athletics.

Qualifications

• Education: Bachelor's degree required; Master's degree preferred, or equivalent experience.
• Experience: 3+ years of experience coaching cross country and/or distance track, preferably at the collegiate level, with a demonstrated ability to recruit, develop, and mentor student-athletes; proven success in building a competitive Christ-centered program; expert knowledge of the sport; knowledge of NCAA compliance and regulations.
• Essential Competencies: Customer Service Orientation, Professionalism, Christ-first Faith, Adaptable/Flexibility, Analytical Thinking & Decision Making, Change Management, Confidentiality, Conflict Management, Continuous Improvement, Develops Others, Effective Communication, Establishes Trust, Leadership/Influence, Strong supervisory skills, Problem-solving, Project and Time Management, Results Orientation & Accountability, Self-development, Strategic Mindset, Teamwork & Collaboration.
• Additional Requirements: Ability to travel 50% of the time, Ability to work non-routine regularly, Ability to sit for prolonged periods of time, Ability to traverse campus and stairs, Ability to lift/move objects up to 25 pounds, Must be willing to authorize a background check, including a motor vehicle record (MVR) check, as a condition of employment.