Program Operations Coordinator & Lead Coach

Twice; Southern Pines (NC); On-site; USD 40,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

First Tee - Sandhills is seeking a full-time Lead Coach to coordinate youth program logistics, deliver golf-based curriculum, and foster strong relationships with participants, families, volunteers, and partners. The role emphasizes data management, registration support, and on-site program delivery within the Southern Pines area.

The ideal candidate will have an associate degree with experience in youth development and a passion for coaching, plus the ability to lead summer and school-year

Qualifications

• Associate’s degree required; experience with youth programs is essential.
• Bachelor’s degree preferred in sports management, education, or recreation.
• Proficiency with CRM or registration systems is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Coordinate planning, logistics, and day-to-day operations of youth programs across the service area.
• Lead programming delivery as a First Tee coach and foster relationships with families and partners.
• Manage participant data, registration, and reporting; ensure accuracy and timeliness.

Skills

Youth development experience

Strong communication

Education

Associate's degree

Bachelor's degree in related field

Tools

Microsoft Office

Google Drive

Job description

Overview

At First Tee - Sandhills, we're building game changers. We are a youth development organization that enables kids to build the strength of character that empowers them through a lifetime of new challenges. By seamlessly integrating the game of golf with a life skills curriculum, we create active learning experiences that build inner strength, self-confidence, and resilience that kids can carry to everything they do.

Position Summary

This is a full-time, hands-on role responsible for coordinating the planning, logistics, and day-to-day operations of youth programs across the First Tee - Sandhills service area (Cumberland, Harnett, Hoke, Moore & Lee Counties). This individual is a skilled, self-directed professional who takes ownership of delivering high-quality program experiences by managing program administration, supporting participant and family communication, and maintaining program resources.

This role also serves as a Lead Coach, delivering First Tee programming and fostering positive relationships with participants, families, volunteers, and community partners.

Driven by a genuine passion for youth development, this person will champion the First Tee mission and serve as a visible, trusted representative of the organization in the community.

Duties & Responsibilities

Program Support

• Develop a working proficiency in Salesforce, our CRM platform, managing participant data, registration tracking, and program reporting with accuracy and consistency
• Own and manage the end-to-end registration experience for families and volunteers, including platform maintenance and ensuring all participant registrations are completed accurately and on time
• Serve as the primary point of contact for parents and guardians regarding online registration, program questions, and schedule changes
• In conjunction with the School & Partner Program Coordinator, execute program logistics and on-site delivery at school and community partner locations.
• Manage the preparation, distribution, and quality maintenance of all program-related equipment and collateral, including end-of-season clean up and breakdown
• In collaboration with the Operations Intern, oversee the Equipment Donation Program, Participant Equipment Loan Program, and resale of donated goods.
• In coordination with the program team, own the building, distribution, and analysis of seasonal program surveys; compile and deliver post-survey reports that translate findings into actionable insights.
• Actively engage in coach meetings and trainings to stay current and lead implementation of best practices for program activities, games, and themes
• Maintain and update Constant Contact on a bi-weekly basis to ensure accurate and current household and prospect records

Coaching

• Commit to ongoing growth as a First Tee coach, including completion of Level 1 & 2 coach training within the first 12 months
• Execute First Tee curriculum with fidelity and skill, incorporating golf instruction that engages and challenges youth participants
• Cultivate a welcoming, safe, and inclusive environment where all participants feel engaged, supported, and empowered to grow
• During fall and spring programs, lead a minimum of three (3) classes, including but not limited to, Green Grass, Swing Fore Success, and PE programs; own attendance and performance recordkeeping for participants, ensuring data is accurate and up to date
• Model professionalism and accountability by beginning and ending all scheduled programs on time
• Partner with school and youth-serving personnel to ensure seamless delivery of First Tee programming
• Take an active leadership role in summer outdoor camp operations
• Maintain continuing education through SafeSport Training and First Tee University

Organizational Support & Engagement

• Support First Tee - Sandhills staff and volunteers with the planning and execution of fundraising and community engagement initiatives.
• Represent First Tee - Sandhills at chapter special events including, but not limited to, fundraisers, tournaments, community outreach, and partner and school events
• Build relationships across the First Tee network, actively exchanging best practices and contributing to a culture of continuous improvement
• Serve as a skilled ambassador for First Tee - Sandhills in community settings, upholding and advancing the organization's brand voice and guidelines

Additional Areas for Review

TYGA Sandhills

• Schedule 6 - 8 Summer One Day events in coordination with Sandhills area facilities
• Prepare Facility Contracts and Finalize event details for each date/location
• Coordinate event details with TYGA liaison to ensure website landing page is accurate
• Recruit and schedule rules officials
• Work with TYGA liaison to finalize tee times; distribute pre-event emails to parents and participants
• In coordination with PGM Summer Intern, oversee all day of event operations
• Opportunity to expand program to Spring/Fall/Winter events as well as two day events

Sandhills Summer League

• Schedule Summer League Events in coordination with Sandhills area facilities
• Prepare Facility Contracts and Finalize event details for each date/location
• In coordination with PGM Summer Intern, plan and organize League Goals and Operations
• In coordination with PGM Summer Intern, oversee all day of League Play

Curriculum & Program Advancement

• Creates additional opportunities for participants to engage in beyond LSE classes (ie. Physical Fitness, Mentoring, Guest Speakers, College Tours, etc.)
• Develops Opportunities to enhance Parent Engagement in Chapter Activities (ie. Orientations, Parent/Child Events, Family Gatherings, etc.)
• Develops and Executes a plan to increase Teen Engagement across all chapter opportunities (ie. Program Registration & Attendance, National Opportunity Applications, Continued Education beyond the Course, Junior Coaching, Giving Back, etc.)
• Manages the National Participant Opportunity application process including event promotion, parent meetings, interviews, etc.
• In conjunction with Level 3 Coaches, plans and oversees the ACE Program

Experience Required

Minimum Requirements

• Associate's degree from an accredited college
• Prior experience working with youth, athletics, or a related field
• Proficient computer skills in Microsoft Office and Google Drive; database experience a plus
• Successfully pass a criminal background check
• Possess a valid Driver's License and reliable personal transportation, as schedules could require commutes across the chapter's service area
• Lift up to 25lbs and work in variable outdoor weather conditions for up to four (4) hours at a time
• Must be able to work between the hours of 2pm-7pm at least three days per week
• Able to work evenings and weekends as needed
• This role requires regular presence both at program locations (within the chapter's five-county service area) and in our Southern Pines administrative office. Time split will vary based on seasonal program schedules and organizational needs.

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor's Degree, preferably in sports management, education, recreation, or a related field
• Exceptional written and verbal communication, interpersonal relations, and organizational skills
• Knowledge of the game of golf, rules, and etiquette
• Demonstrated experience in youth development with measurable program outcomes
• Active in First Tee Coach or Program Director training track
• Ability to travel to meet with partner organizations, schools, trainings, chapter, and network events as required
• Proven ability to manage multiple priorities with strong time management skills and personal accountability