Job Summary and Basic Function
The Head Softball Coach is responsible for providing visionary leadership and oversight of Dickinson College's NCAA Division III softball program. The position is responsible for building a competitive championship‑caliber program while supporting the academic, personal, and leadership growth of student‑athletes.
Position Summary
This position is responsible for the administration of a designated Dickinson sport program. The Head Coach manages a sufficient roster of student‑athletes while making both academic and athletic success a priority and embracing the DivisionIII liberal arts experience. Key duties include recruiting and developing student athletes, organizational and fiscal management of the program, scheduling and conducting games and practices, and implementing game strategies.
Essential Functions
- Educate and develop student‑athletes to prepare them for success within the athletic program, classroom, and community.
- Plan and implement valuable learning experiences where student‑athletes are challenged to excel both in the classroom and within their respective sport.
- Focus on supporting academic and leadership expectations through mentoring and individual check‑ins.
- Prepare individual student‑athletes for success in competition through physical conditioning, instruction of competitive strategies, and demonstration of proper technique.
- Provide coaching during practice sessions as well as during competition.
- Conduct team‑building activities to create a cohesive environment.
- Recruit qualified student‑athletes to Dickinson through attending camps, showcases, games, practices, etc.
- Initiate and maintain communication with prospective recruits through letters, email, telephone calls, social media, home visits and hosting/coordinating on‑campus visits based on NCAA compliance standards and regulations.
- Manage operational/administrative functions, oversee fiscal/budgetary components for the intercollegiate program, schedule all practices and competitive events, and organize team travel, meals, and overnight accommodations.
- Participate in live scouting, utilize video, and develop winning traditions within the sport.
- Hire and supervise assistant coaching staff in collaboration with the Athletic Director.
- Maintain relationships and engage with alumni athletes and parents through telephone calls, social media, letters, emails, and attendance at alumni events.
- Assist in raising funds for the athletic department.
- Plan and implement community programming such as clinics, camps, and service opportunities.
- Build and sustain a highly competitive NCAA Division III softball program that competes for Centennial Conference championships and NCAA postseason opportunities.
- Recruit, retain, and develop student‑athletes who are committed to excellence academically, athletically, and personally.
- Ensure compliance with all NCAA, Centennial Conference, and Dickinson College policies and regulations.
- Foster a positive, inclusive, and accountable team culture that supports student‑athlete well‑being, personal growth, and competitive excellence.
- Develop student‑athlete leadership by creating opportunities for leadership development, accountability, and service.
- Develop annual recruiting and competitive plans to continually increase the competitiveness of the program.
- Support fundraising, alumni engagement, and program promotion in collaboration with the Office of Advancement and Athletics staff.
- Manage the softball operating budget and maintain accurate program records, including purchasing documentation and credit card receipts.
- Work cooperatively with department offices, including marketing and communications, athletic training, strength and conditioning, sports medicine, and equipment staff in the promotion and operation of the intercollegiate program.
- Participate in game administration for department events, attend monthly department meetings, and serve on various Athletics Department committees.
- Promote the mission and values of Dickinson College and contribute positively to the overall success of the Athletics Department.
- Perform other duties as assigned.
Supervision
Supervises work of others, including planning, assigning, and scheduling work, reviewing work, and ensuring quality standards, training staff and overseeing their productivity. May offer recommendations for hiring, termination, and pay adjustments, but does not have responsibility for making these decisions.
Education and Requirements
- Bachelor's degree, required.
- Master's degree, preferred.
- Position is subject to the Pennsylvania Act153 clearance: Pennsylvania Criminal History Record Information Check, Pennsylvania Child Abuse Certification, and Federal Criminal History Record Information Check pursuant to Pennsylvania law and Dickinson College policy.
- Valid driver's license.
Experience
5 to 8 years of relevant experience.
Work Environment
- Outdoor environment with exposure to weather conditions; temperatures may fall below 32°F or rise above 100°F for extended periods.
- Noise level requires shouting to be heard above ambient noise.
- Hazards include proximity to moving mechanical parts, moving vehicles, electrical current, working on scaffolding and high places, and exposure to chemicals.
EEO/Diversity Statement
The college does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, disability, religion, age, veteran status, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation or any other protected class. We encourage applications from all qualified persons.
Benefits
- Comprehensive medical insurance plan.
- Life insurance.
- Flexible spending accounts.
- Generous time off and parental leave.
- Homebuyer assistance.
- Tuition benefits for eligible employees and dependent children under 24.
- Retirement contribution of 8% of base salary with an additional 0.5% matching contribution, fully vested immediately.