The Head Athletic Trainer for the United States Sports Academy is responsible for overseeing the comprehensive sports medicine program for student-athletes within the university’s athletic department. This role involves providing leadership, clinical expertise, and administrative oversight to a team of athletic trainers while collaborating closely with coaches, team physicians, and other healthcare professionals to ensure the health, safety, and well-being of student-athletes.
USSA sponsors men’s soccer, women’s soccer, women’s volleyball, baseball, softball, and track and field. The university is looking to compete in the United States Collegiate Athletic Association.
Key Responsibilities:
- Provide leadership, direction, and supervision to future athletic training staff, including contracted athletic trainers, graduate assistants, and student aides.
- Develop and implement policies, procedures, and protocols to ensure the delivery of high-quality athletic training services in compliance with regulations and best practices.
- Foster a culture of professionalism, teamwork, and continuous improvement within the athletic training department.
- Conduct pre-participation screenings and assessments (i.e. sports physicals and concussion baseline testing) to identify potential risk factors for injuries among student-athletes.
- Evaluate and diagnose injuries sustained during practices and competitions, utilizing appropriate diagnostic techniques and tools.
- Develop and implement evidence-based treatment plans and rehabilitation programs tailored to the individual needs of student-athletes.
- Provide immediate care and first aid for acute injuries, including on-field or sideline management when necessary.
- Collaborate closely with coaches, team physicians, physical therapists, strength and conditioning coaches, and other healthcare professionals to coordinate comprehensive care for student-athletes.
- Communicate effectively with student-athletes, coaches, and parents regarding injury prevention strategies, treatment plans, and return-to-play protocols.
- Maintain accurate and up-to-date medical records, injury reports, and documentation in accordance with HIPAA regulations and institutional policies.
- Manage and coordinate the institution’s drug testing program for student-athletes by ensuring integrity, accuracy, and confidentiality of drug testing procedures and results.
- Collaborate with the compliance office, athletic directors, and external testing agencies to implement and monitor drug testing protocols.
- Provide education and counseling to student-athletes regarding the drug testing policies, banned substances, and the consequences of non-compliance.
- Develop and deliver educational programs, workshops, and resources on topics such as injury prevention, nutrition, hydration, mental health, and substance abuse prevention for student-athletes, coaches, and staff.
- Engage with the campus community and external stakeholders through outreach events, health fairs, and partnerships to promote sports safety and wellness.
- Manage the budget, inventory, and procurement of medical supplies, equipment, and facilities for the athletic training department.
- Ensure compliance with institutional and athletic league regulations related to athletic training services, medical care, and student-athlete welfare.
- Participate in departmental meetings, committees, and strategic planning initiatives to support the overall mission and goals of the athletic department.
- Additional duties as assigned by the Assistant Athletic Director, Associate Athletic Director, and/ or Athletic Director.
Qualifications:
- Master’s degree in Athletic Training, Sports Medicine, or related field.
- Certified Athletic Trainer (ATC) credential from the Board of Certification (BOC).
- State licensure or eligibility for licensure as an Athletic Trainer.
- Minimum of 3 years of experience in collegiate athletics or a similar high-level sports environment, with supervisory or leadership experience preferred.
- Strong knowledge of rules and regulations governing sports medicine and athletic training.
- Excellent interpersonal, communication, and organizational skills.
- Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced and dynamic collegiate athletics environment, including evenings, weekends, and travel with athletic teams.
This is a full-time position with a starting salary range of $50,000 to $70,000 per year, dependent on credentials and experience, plus benefits.
This is a full-time position with a competitive starting salary range, dependent on credentials and experience, plus benefits. Position open until filled. To apply, please email a cover letter and resume to athletics@ussa.edu with subject line “USSA Athletic Trainer”.
