Associate Head Coach

Atlantic Coast Athletic Clubs; Charlottesville (VA); On-site; USD 45,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

The acac USA Swim Team is seeking an Associate Head Coach to support the growth of our year-round program serving athletes from introductory levels through national-level competition. The role works closely with the Head Coach to lead training groups, develop technique, and oversee daily coaching operations.

The ideal candidate has 3+ years of coaching competitive swimmers, ASCA Level 2 (Level 3 preferred), strong organizational and communication skills, and a team-first mindset.

Qualifications

• 3+ years coaching competitive swimmers.
• ASCA Level 2 certification (Level 3 preferred).
• Strong understanding of stroke technique and training progression.

Responsibilities

• Lead and assist with training groups, focusing on developmental and age group athletes.
• Design and implement practices emphasizing technique, skill progression, and training habits.
• Provide consistent technical instruction, feedback, and race preparation.

Skills

Coaching experience

Leadership abilities

Communication skills

Time management

Organizational skills

Education

ASCA Level 2 (Level 3 preferred)

Tools

TeamUnify

SportsEngine

Job description

The acac USA Swim Team is seeking a motivated, detail-oriented, and relationship-driven Associate Head Coach to support the continued growth and success of our program. This role works directly alongside Head Coach and plays a key part in daily coaching operations, athlete development, program leadership, and administrative management, with a strong emphasis on building a foundation for long-term success across the team.

We are looking for a coach who is passionate about developing athletes, teaching skills the right way, staying organized, and helping lead a high-functioning, team-centered program.

The acac USA Swim Team is a year-round competitive swim program serving athletes from introductory levels through national-level competition. We believe in a “One Team, One Family” environment that prioritizes both performance and personal development.

Key Responsibilities

Coaching & Athlete Development

• Lead and assist with training groups, with a primary focus on developmental and age group athletes
• Design and implement practices that emphasize technique, skill progression, and training habits
• Provide consistent technical instruction, feedback, and race preparation
• Help guide athletes through long-term progression within the program
• Identify and support athletes transitioning to higher levels of training

Program Leadership

• Work closely with the Head Coach to implement training structure and program direction
• Take ownership of assigned training groups and their development
• Assist in mentoring and supporting assistant coaches
• Maintain consistency in coaching standards, expectations, and messaging across groups

Administrative & Operational Leadership

• Assist with meet entries, deadlines, and roster management
• Help coordinate practice schedules, group placements, and attendance tracking
• Support team communications (emails, updates, reminders to families)
• Assist in organizing team events, meets, and program logistics
• Help manage and maintain team systems (TeamUnify/SportsEngine or similar platforms)
• Ensure organizational consistency across groups and help streamline day-to-day operations
• Take initiative in identifying ways to improve efficiency within the program

Culture & Communication

• Build strong, positive relationships with swimmers and families
• Foster an environment centered on effort, accountability, and team culture
• Communicate clearly and professionally with athletes, parents, and staff
• Uphold and model the values of the acac USA Swim Team

Qualifications & Physical Demands

• Previous coaching experience with competitive swimmers (3+ Years)
• Minimum ASCA Level 2 (ASCA Level 3 Preferred)
• Strong understanding of stroke technique, skill development, and training progression
• Experience working with age group swimmers is highly valued
• Strong organizational and time management skills
• Excellent communication and leadership abilities
• Ability to lead groups independently while collaborating within a coaching staff
• Current USA Swimming certifications (or ability to obtain prior to start)
• Passion for developing athletes and teaching fundamentals
• Highly organized and detail-oriented
• Proactive and dependable with a strong sense of ownership
• Positive energy and presence on deck
• Team-first mindset with a desire to grow within a program
• Must be able to work in an often warm and humid environment with heightened noise

Schedule & Commitment

• Includes weekday practices (afternoon/evening and some mornings as needed)
• Regular weekend meet attendance and travel required
• Year-round position aligned with USA Swimming seasons
• Locations vary during the year and must be able to work at Crozet Park, Adventure Central and Albemarle Square locations