Graduate Assistant Strength and Conditioning Coach

Position Summary

The Graduate Assistant Strength and Conditioning Coach will work under the direct supervision of the Head Strength and Conditioning Coach to design, implement, and coach strength and conditioning programs for an assigned caseload of 4–6 varsity athletic teams. This position is intended for a graduate student pursuing an advanced degree who is seeking hands-on, applied experience in collegiate sports performance while completing academic coursework. The Graduate Assistant will play an active role in athlete development, including program design, in-season and off-season training, injury-risk-reduction strategies, and day-to-day coaching of training sessions.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Design and write individualized and team-based strength and conditioning programs for 4–6 assigned varsity athletic teams, in alignment with each sport’s competitive calendar and the department’s overall training philosophy.

• Coach and supervise daily training sessions, including proper exercise technique, movement screening, and progression/regression of exercises based on athlete ability and training age.

• Monitor athlete readiness, workload, and performance data, and adjust programming accordingly in collaboration with the Head Strength and Conditioning Coach and sport coaches.

• Communicate and coordinate training schedules with sport coaches, athletic trainers, and other performance staff to ensure programs support both performance goals and athlete health.

• Assist with the return-to-play and injury-risk-reduction process for assigned teams in coordination with sports medicine staff.

• Maintain accurate records of training programs, attendance, and athlete progress using the department’s tracking and program-design software.

• Uphold and enforce all safety protocols, facility rules, and NCAA/conference regulations related to strength and conditioning activities.

• Assist with the maintenance, organization, and safe operation of the weight room and training facilities and equipment.

• Support summer, camp, and off-season training programs as assigned.

• Perform other duties as assigned by the Head Strength and Conditioning Coach or Director of Sports Performance.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree completed prior to the start of the assistantship, and current acceptance into (or enrollment in) a graduate degree program at the institution.

• Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS) through the NSCA, OR currently eligible to sit for the CSCS exam, OR hold the NSCA Certified Personal Trainer (NSCA-CPT) certification.

• Demonstrated background in strength and conditioning program development, including experience designing periodized training programs for individual athletes or teams.

• Current CPR/AED and First Aid certification (or ability to obtain prior to start date).

• Strong understanding of exercise science principles, periodization, and athletic movement mechanics.

• Excellent communication, organizational, and time-management skills, with the ability to balance coaching responsibilities alongside graduate coursework.

• Ability to work early mornings, evenings, and weekends as required by team training schedules.

Preferred Qualifications

• Prior experience coaching strength and conditioning at the collegiate, high school, or club level.

• Experience with athlete monitoring and program-design software (e.g., TeamBuildr, CoachMePlus, TrainHeroic, or similar).

• Additional certifications such as USA Weightlifting (USAW), USAPL, or Sports Performance Coach (SPC).

Time Commitment & Terms

This is a part-time graduate assistantship tied to concurrent enrollment in a graduate program. The position typically requires 20–29 hours per week, with schedule demands fluctuating based on team practice, competition, and testing calendars. Compensation includes a stipend and/or tuition assistance in accordance with department and graduate school policy; specific terms will be outlined at the time of offer.

To Apply

Interested candidates should submit a cover letter, resume, and contact information for three professional references to the Strength and Conditioning Coordinator Christian Ferrara (Christian.ferrara@aic.edu) and Director of Athletics Rob Kearney (Robert.kearney@aic.edu). Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled.

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