Job Description

Idaho State University is seeking applications for a Head Men's and Women's Cross Country Coach / Assistant Track and Field Coach (Distance) beginning in July for the 2026-2027 season. This is a full-time position that will report to the Director of Track and Field Cross Country and oversee all aspects of the men's and women's cross-country programs while assisting in the administration and coaching of middle-distance and distance events within the Track and Field Program.

This position is not eligible for new visa sponsorship at this time. Candidates who already hold valid U.S. work authorization may be considered.

Key Responsibilities

• Direct and manage all aspects of the Men's and Women's Cross Country Programs.
• Assist in all Track and Field Cross Country Program decisions and season operations as assigned by the Director of Track and Field Cross Country.
• Demonstrate excellent teaching and coaching competencies with regard to sport skill instruction, training and practice sessions, organization, motivation, and tactical strategies while assisting in designing competitive schedules that maximize student-athlete development for the cross-country team and middle-distance and distance athletes.
• Collaborate with strength and conditioning staff on the implementation of weight training and performance development programs for student-athletes.
• Recruit student-athletes with high academic achievement and athletic potential who can be competitive in the Big Sky Conference and continue to develop those athletes academically, athletically, and personally.
• Exhibit leadership and a commitment to excellence in professional standards and ethical behavior.
• Provide development and support in the mental, social, emotional, and overall welfare of student-athletes.
• Demonstrate excellent communication skills in writing, speaking, and listening and maintain positive collaborative working relationships with athletes, colleagues, university support personnel, parents, alumni, and community stakeholders.
• Identify strengths and areas for improvement within the program and analyze strengths and weaknesses of opponents.
• Assist the Director in creating a positive team and staff culture where all individuals are able to contribute, develop, and support each other in responsibilities and duties.
• Continually learn, grow, and participate in educational conferences, workshops, and meetings to increase professional skills and knowledge.

Work is done in the office and at athletic facilities and may often include early mornings, evenings, holidays, weekends, and overnight travel.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor's Degree.
• Coaching philosophy consistent and/or complementary to that of the existing program.
• Desire and ability to work collaboratively with others.
• Demonstrated successful coaching experience in Cross Country and/or Collegiate Track and Field distance events.
• Understanding of NCAA rules and regulations and commitment to adherence.
• Organizational and administrative skills, excellent verbal and written communication skills, and the ability to build strong relationships internally and externally.
• Satisfactory driving record and ability to operate university vehicles.
• Applicants must pass a criminal background check.

Preferred Qualifications

• Master's Degree.
• Three years of successful collegiate head coaching experience preferred; with NCAA Division I experience strongly preferred.
• Demonstrated success recruiting and developing conference-level and national-level distance runners.
• USTFCCCA and/or USATF Coaching Education Certifications.
• Experience coordinating camps, clinics, fundraising initiatives, and alumni engagement activities.