Head Men's and Women's Cross Country and Track Coach

Position Purpose

The Head Cross Country and Track Coach is responsible for leading all aspects of the cross country and track program in accordance with North Central University’s mission and values. This includes recruiting, developing, and retaining student-athletes who fit the university culture while fostering spiritual, academic and athletic growth. Additionally, this position supports the Director of Athletics and Administrative staff in fulfilling the mission and vision of NCU athletics and enhancing the overall experience and well-being of student-athletes.

Responsibilities

• Design and implement a comprehensive training program focused on fundamental and advanced skills, strength and conditioning, and tactical strategies.
• Develop practice plans and meet strategies to ensure competitive performance.
• Evaluate and analyze team and individual performance.
• Promote a positive and disciplined team culture that aligns with North Central’s values and university standards.
• Identify, recruit and retain student-athletes who support NCU’s mission and athletic vision.
• Establish and maintain relationships with high school and club coaches to develop a strong recruiting pipeline.
• Serve as a mentor to student-athletes, promoting spiritual development, leadership, and personal growth.
• Manage the team budget, including travel, equipment, and fundraising efforts, as assigned by the Director of Athletics.
• Plan and coordinate travel logistics.
• Schedule in-season and off-season training in compliance with university and NCAA/UMAC/NCCAA guidelines.
• Oversee marketing, fundraising initiatives, and community engagement activities.
• Maintain accurate inventory of team equipment and apparel.
• Ensure program adherence to NCAA, UMAC, and NCCAA rules and regulations, including recruiting and eligibility standards.
• Collaborate with university departments, including admissions, student development, and spiritual life, to support student-athlete success.
• Serve on departmental and university committees as assigned.
• Manage home events.
• Transportation care.
• Camps.

Qualifications

• Minimum Education and Experience: Bachelor’s degree. Previous coaching and/or playing experience in assigned sport.
• Knowledge, Skills and Abilities: Maintain a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. Ability to communicate the mission and vision of North Central University to prospective student-athletes. Knowledge and ability of the use of technological resources including a wide variety of computer programs and applications. Knowledge of compliance rules and regulations. Knowledge of institutional budgets and ability to manage fiscal responsibilities. Ability to successfully recruit and retain student-athletes aligned with NCU’s mission. Ability to work well with a variety of diverse personalities and departments. Valid driver’s license. Ability to pass a background check upon hire and periodically during employment.
• Preferred Experience/Skills: Master’s degree. Collegiate coaching and/or collegiate playing experience. Experience in scouting, recruiting, and player development at the collegiate level. Strong fundraising and community engagement experience. Strong knowledge of NCAA compliance requirements.

Environmental Conditions

Working environment involves work in an urban, Christ-centered university. Requires travel for games, recruiting and university-related activities. Position involves the use of multiple technologies including computer and its software. Use of standard office equipment. May require training and certification as needed.

Summary of Benefits

• Medical – Individual Coverage Health Reimbursement Arrangement (ICHRA). Employees receive a contribution from NCU towards an individual health insurance premium through SureCo.
• Dental – Employee funded. Health Partners
• HSA and FSA – available through Optum Bank
• Life Insurance – company funded life with option to add Voluntary Life through New York Life
• Long Term Disability – University paid through New York Life
• 403b Retirement – TIAA or AG Financial. Up to 3% match of employee contributions after 12 months.
• PTO – unlimited with black out periods dependent on departmental and academic calendars.