"Strength and Conditioning Graduate Assistant"

The Strength and Conditioning Graduate Assistant supports the Head Strength and Conditioning Coach in developing, implementing, and monitoring comprehensive training programs that enhance the athletic performance, strength, speed, and injury resilience of student-athletes. This role is responsible for assisting with daily weight room operations, supervising training sessions, maintaining a safe and motivating training environment, and promoting proper technique and training discipline. The position collaborates closely with sport coaches, athletic trainers, and other support staff to ensure programs are aligned with the overall goals of the athletic department and the individual needs of each team.

Core Competencies:

1. Represents Aurora University in the most positive manner with prospective, former and current students, clients, suppliers and the community we serve. Interacts effectively with a diverse group of faculty, staff, students and other customers of our service, learns and uses operating practices of the department and Aurora University.
2. Upholds the Mission Statement: At Aurora University, our singular goal is to empower students to achieve lasting personal and professional success. We do this by being an inclusive community dedicated to the transformative power of learning. As a teaching-centered institution, we encourage undergraduate and graduate students to discover what it takes to build meaningful and purposeful lives.
3. Handles all information with tact and discretion and recognizes the confidential nature of university business.
4. Supports learning through performance of essential job functions and performing other duties and functions as necessary or as assigned, including voluntary participation in university committees, activities and events.

Essential Functions:

1. Program Implementation
   Assist in the development and delivery of sport-specific strength and conditioning programs in coordination with the Head Strength and Conditioning Coach.
2. Athlete Supervision
   Directly supervise training sessions to ensure proper technique, safety, and program adherence.
3. Instruction & Motivation
   Provide clear instruction and motivation to student-athletes in strength training, speed/agility development, flexibility, and recovery protocols
4. Monitoring & Assessment
   Track athlete progress using performance metrics and modify programs based on assessment data, feedback, and training responses.
5. Collaboration & Communication
   Communicate effectively with sport coaches, athletic trainers, and medical staff to coordinate training with practice schedules, injuries, and return-to-play protocols.
6. Facility & Equipment Management
   Maintain cleanliness, safety, and organization of the weight room and training equipment; report maintenance needs promptly
7. Record Keeping
   Maintain detailed records of athlete attendance, testing results, and training modifications
8. Professional Development
   Stay current with trends in sports performance, strength and conditioning, and injury prevention through continuing education and certification upkeep.
9. Mentorship & Leadership
   Serve as a positive role model for athletes and assist in mentoring interns or student workers involved in the strength and conditioning program.
10. Compliance & Risk Management
    Ensure training practices align with institutional, conference, and national governing body guidelines, as well as health and safety standards.

Education: Bachelor's degree (or equivalent experience) required. Candidates must have completed or be on track to complete the NSCA CSCS certification prior to the start date.

Experience: Minimum of 1 semester internship of relevant experience.

Skills:
• Knowledge of evidence-based strength, speed, and conditioning principles
• Ability to coach proper lifting techniques and movement mechanics
• Experience working with multiple sports and training needs
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills
• Excellent organization, time management, and attention to detail
• Ability to foster a positive, high-energy training environment
• Proficiency with training software and performance tracking tools
• Current CPR/AED certification
• Understanding NCAA Division III athletics

Physical Requirements:
• Ability to work with a computer for long periods of the day.
• Ability to attend off-campus meetings.
• Office setting, standing, walking, sitting.

Work Hours: This is a part-time, stipend-based position averaging approximately 20 hours per week during the academic year. Weekly hours may vary based on team coverage and seasonal needs. The position does not require work during institutional breaks or holidays.

Special Requirements:
• A valid driver's license and driving record which meets institutional requirements is required.
• Requires travel between campus locations or to attend off-site meetings.

Compensation includes full tuition for the master's program and $5,000.00 stipend.