Head Coach Cross Country / Assistant Coach Distance (5527)

Thank you for your interest in positions at Idaho State University. Once you have applied, the most updated information on the status of your application can be found by logging into your profile and reviewing your status. For answers to additional questions, please review our frequently asked questions.

Head Coach Cross Country / Assistant Coach Distance (5527)
Pocatello - Main
NOT eligible for remote work, on-campus position
Priority Date: June 29, 2026

Institution Information

Idaho State University, established in 1901, is a Carnegie-classified doctoral research and teaching institution, with a culture built on trust, compassion, stability, and hope. ISU serves over 12,000 students in Pocatello, Meridian, Twin Falls, and Idaho Falls. Students and faculty at ISU are leading the way in cutting-edge research and innovative solutions. We are proud to offer exceptional academics nestled in the grand, natural beauty of the West. We invite you to apply to be a part of our University community!

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. These may span a variety of tasks such as recommendations for competition schedules, meet entries, event management, scheduling, supervision of program personnel, budget management, campus visits, student-athlete academic success, mentoring, team travel, equipment and gear, meal planning, technical and video logistics, youth meets and camps, nutrition, facility upkeep, fundraising, alumni relations, and media/marketing.
• 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. Schedule, plan, and execute pre-season, post-season, and in-season practices and competitions. Log all CARA activities.
• 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. Make professional decisions with adherence to NCAA, Big Sky Conference, University, and Department rules, regulations, and codes of conduct.
• 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. Develop strategies and collaborate on solutions to limitations and challenges.
• Assist the Director in creating an 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.

• 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.

You must submit your CV/resume, cover letter, and list of three (3) professional references, including current contact information. This position will remain open until it is filled; however, priority consideration will be given to applications received on or before June 29, 2026. Salary will be between $52,000 and $55,000 per year, commensurate with education and experience. Benefits include comprehensive health, dental, and vision; life insurance; disability plan; employee assistance program (EAP); excellent retirement options and company contribution; and generous paid time off/sick leave accrual. All offers of employment are conditional pending the successful completion of a background investigation, provided by HireRight.

Note: Thank you for your interest in positions at Idaho State University. Once you have applied, the most updated information on the status of your application can be found by logging into your profile and reviewing your status. For answers to additional questions, please review our frequently asked questions.

Posting Number: req2757
Type: Working 12 months per year
Position: Non-classified Staff
Division: Athletic Administration

Idaho State University is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer, including Veterans and individuals with disabilities.

The State of Idaho is committed to access and reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities, auxiliary aids and services are available upon request. If you require an accommodation at any step in our recruitment process, you are encouraged to contact (208) 334-2263 (TTY/TTD: 711), or email ada.coordinator@dhr.idaho.gov.

Preference may be given to veterans who qualify under state and federal laws and regulations.

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