What are the responsibilities and job description for the Head Football Coach position at Lewis & Clark College?
Working at Lewis & Clark College
The campus is located on 137 acres of beautifully landscaped grounds in Portland’s southwest hills. Our strong commitment to sustainability is reinforced through recycling programs, energy conservation, alternative transportation options, and farm to fork initiatives. For benefit-eligible positions, we offer a competitivebenefits package that includes options for health, dental, vision, tuition, life insurance, retirement and more.
Lewis & Clark College is committed to achieving a diverse workforce. Candidates from diverse backgrounds are encouraged to apply. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to status as a protected veteran or a qualified individual with a disability, or other protected status, such as race, religion, color, national origin, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, marital status or age.
PRIMARY PURPOSE
The Head Football Coach within the Department of Athletics & Physical Education reports directly to the Director of Athletics & Physical Education. This role is primarily responsible for leading and directing all phases of a competitive NCAA Division III football program. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of NCAA regulations and a strong commitment to the student-athlete experience in a liberal arts educational setting. To be successful in this position, the individual must excel at recruiting quality student-athletes, developing and implementing game strategies and practice schedules, managing the football program budget, and promoting the academic, personal, and athletic development of student-athletes.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES
Program Leadership and Development
Direct all aspects of the NCAA Division III football program, ensuring compliance with all College, Northwest Conference (NWC), and NCAA rules and regulations.
Develop strategic plans that aim to enhance team performance and achieve competitive
Recruitment and Retention
Design and implement a comprehensive recruiting plan to identify and attract potential student-athletes who align with the academic and athletic standards of Lewis & Clark College.
Maintain retention strategies that support the academic and athletic success of student-athletes.
Coaching and Team Management
Conduct daily practices and coordinate game strategies to maximize team performance.
Oversee the physical and skill development of student-athletes through well-planned and executed training programs.
Administrative Duties
Manage the football program budget, ensuring funds are allocated effectively and expenses are tracked meticulously.
Schedule games and coordinate logistics for team travel, accommodations, and equipment needs.
Hire, mentor, and supervise assistant coaches and support staff, fostering a collaborative team environment.
Community and Stakeholder Engagement
Serve as an ambassador for the Lewis & Clark football program, engaging with alumni, donors, and community members to build support and enhance the program’s visibility.
Collaborate with the Director of Athletics & Physical Education and other college departments to support the mission and vision of Lewis & Clark College.
Other Duties as Assigned
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, ABILITIES, & BEHAVIORS
Proficient understanding of NCAA Division III regulations and compliance requirements.
Proficient in budget management and financial tracking software to oversee program finances.
Excellent communication skills, both oral and written, for effective interaction with student-athletes, staff, college administration, and external stakeholders.
Excellent strategic planning and organizational skills to manage multiple aspects of a football program.
Superior coaching abilities to develop and execute game strategies that maximize team performance.
Superior leadership abilities to mentor and develop assistant coaches and program staff.
Extremely committed to promoting inclusion and diversity within the football program and the broader athletic community.
Demonstrates sensitivity and awareness in managing a culturally diverse team.
REQUIRED EDUCATION / EXPERIENCE
Bachelor’s degree in Sports Management, Physical Education, or a related field.
Minimum of three years of coaching experience at the collegiate level.
Current CPR / AED certification.
PREFERRED EDUCATION / EXPERIENCE
Master’s degree in Sports Management, Athletic Administration, or a related field.
Previous head coaching experience in NCAA Division III football.
Experience with recruitment management software and athlete performance analytics tools.
WORK SCHEDULE
This is a full-time, 12-month position.
Requires flexibility to work evenings, weekends, and holidays to accommodate practices, games, and recruiting events.
Travel is required for away games, recruiting trips, and conferences.
Extended hours are common during the sports season and as part of postseason competitions.
Benefits Eligible : Yes
PAY RATE
FLSA Status : Exempt
Commensurate with experience
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
Ability to stand for extended periods during practices and games.
Frequent walking, running, or movement to demonstrate techniques and coach athletes during practices and games.
Ability to handle outdoor conditions, including exposure to varying weather conditions typical of athletic fields.
Capability to lift and transport athletic equipment weighing up to 50 pounds.
