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Associate Athletic Director Internal Operation Jobs

$74K - $76K/yr

Senior Associate Athletic Director of Internal Operations Working Title Senior Associate Athletic Director of Internal Operations Posting Number Posting Number NFE03171P Department Department SDSMT ...

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Associate Athletic Director Internal Operation information

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$16.5K

$62.2K

$118.5K

How much do associate athletic director internal operation jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for associate athletic director internal operation in the United States is $62,246.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $40,500.00 and $77,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an associate athletic director internal operation?

Associate Athletic Directors of Internal Operations are senior administrators in collegiate or university athletic departments who oversee the internal functioning of athletic programs. Their responsibilities typically include managing budgets, facilities, compliance, event operations, and staff within the athletics department. They ensure that all internal processes run smoothly, support coaches and teams, and help enforce institutional and NCAA policies. This role is essential for maintaining organizational efficiency and supporting the overall mission of the athletic program.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an associate athletic director internal operation?

To excel as an Associate Athletic Director Internal Operation, you need strong organizational, financial management, and compliance skills, typically supported by a bachelor’s or master’s degree in sports management or a related field. Familiarity with NCAA compliance systems, budgeting software, and event management platforms is often required. Exceptional communication, leadership, and problem-solving abilities help build effective teams and manage complex internal operations. These skills are crucial for ensuring the smooth, compliant, and efficient functioning of athletic departments.

What are the typical challenges faced by an associate athletic director internal operation, and how can they be managed effectively?

An Associate Athletic Director of Internal Operations often faces the challenge of balancing multiple priorities, such as facility management, event coordination, and compliance with regulations. Managing limited resources while ensuring all athletic programs run smoothly requires strong organizational and communication skills. Collaborating with coaches, administrative staff, and external vendors is crucial for effective problem-solving and maintaining operational excellence. Staying proactive, fostering teamwork, and leveraging technology can help address these challenges and support the overall mission of the athletic department.

What is the difference between Associate Athletic Director Internal Operation vs Associate Athletic Director External Relations?

AspectAssociate Athletic Director Internal OperationAssociate Athletic Director External Relations
Primary FocusManaging internal athletic department operations, compliance, and administrationBuilding external relationships, community engagement, and media relations
Required CredentialsRelevant bachelor’s degree, experience in athletic administration, knowledge of NCAA rulesSimilar credentials, with emphasis on communication and public relations experience
Work EnvironmentOffice-based, internal meetings, administrative tasksExternal meetings, media events, community outreach
Industry UsageCommonly used within athletic departments for internal management roles

While both roles require similar educational backgrounds and experience, the Associate Athletic Director Internal Operation primarily focuses on internal department management, compliance, and administration. In contrast, the Associate Athletic Director External Relations emphasizes external communication, community engagement, and media relations. Understanding these differences helps clarify career paths and job expectations within athletic departments.

What are popular job titles related to Associate Athletic Director Internal Operation jobs?

For Associate Athletic Director Internal Operation jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Associate Athletic Director Internal Operation job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 95% In-person, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $62,246 per year, or $29.9 per hour.

Senior Associate Athletic Director of Internal Operations

Pierre, SD • On-site

South Dakota Board of Regents
Education Programs Administration • 1 - 5K employees

$74K - $76K/yr

Other

Retirement, PTO

Posted 12 days ago


Job description

Senior Associate Athletic Director of Internal Operations

Working Title Senior Associate Athletic Director of Internal Operations

Posting Number

Posting Number NFE03171P

Department

Department SDSMT-Intercollegiate Athletics

Physical Location of Position (City)

Physical Location of Position (City) Rapid City

Posting Text

Position Information: South Dakota Mines is seeking a confident, energetic, and highly organized servant leader to serve as Senior Associate Athletic Director of Internal Operations. This is a full-time, benefited position. Located in Rapid City, South Dakota Mines is an NCAA Division II institution and member of the Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference (RMAC). Hardrocker Athletics sponsors 13 NCAA Division II sports.

The Senior Associate Athletic Director serves on the Athletics leadership team and advises the Director of Athletics on departmental operations and strategic priorities. The successful candidate will value collaboration, accountability, gender equity, and academic success, health, and overall well‑being of student‑athletes.

Responsibilities
  • Provide leadership, direction, and supervision for the internal operations of Hardrocker Athletics, which may include business operations, student‑athlete academic services, compliance, event management, facilities, and ticketing.
  • Following the selection and appointment of the successful candidate, additional administrative responsibilities may be assigned based on departmental needs and the qualifications of the successful candidate, consistent with applicable NCAA and institutional requirements. Such responsibilities may include, but are not limited to, serving as the institution’s Senior Woman Administrator (SWA) and/or a Title IX liaison for Athletics. In these roles, the successful candidate would promote gender equity, support compliance with applicable laws and policies, foster a positive work environment, and support the success and well‑being of student‑athletes and staff.
  • Coordinate all home athletic events, including scheduling, staffing, facility readiness, ticket and ramp operations, visiting‑team communication, athletic training coverage, and collaboration with campus departments and participating organizations.
  • Assist with managing departmental operating budgets and discretionary accounts while ensuring fiscal responsibility and compliance with university policies.
  • Supervise assigned sports and support head coaches in budgeting, scheduling, personnel matters, compliance, facilities, student‑athlete welfare, recruiting, and postseason planning.
  • Oversee the Student‑Athlete Advisory Committee, including meetings, leadership development, NCAA legislative engagement, and community service activities.
  • Serve as the primary liaison to the RMAC office and represent South Dakota Mines at RMAC, NCAA, and professional meetings and conventions.
  • Collaborate with campus leaders to develop and implement policies and procedures that strengthen departmental effectiveness.
  • Participate in Athletics leadership meetings, contribute to the department’s strategic plan, serve on assigned committees, and perform other duties assigned by the Director of Athletics.
Qualifications
  • Minimum of three to five years of collegiate athletics administration, coaching, business operations, academic services, compliance, event management, or related experience.
  • Working knowledge of NCAA rules, Title IX requirements, and intercollegiate athletics administration.
  • Previous collegiate student‑athlete experience is welcomed but not required.
Required Skills
  • High personal integrity, sound professional judgment, and commitment to accountability.
  • Demonstrated ability to lead, collaborate, delegate, and build trusted relationships.
  • Strong organizational, problem‑solving, decision‑making, and time‑management skills.
  • Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast‑paced environment and work evenings, weekends, holidays, and athletic events as required.
  • Strong written, oral, and interpersonal communication skills.

South Dakota Mines is committed to recruiting and retaining a talented workforce and offers an excellent comprehensive benefits package for employees, spouses and dependents; retirement plans; paid holidays; and a generous vacation and sick day allowance.

Review of applications will begin August 17, 2026.

Employment is contingent upon completion of a satisfactory background investigation.

Posting Date 08/12/2026

Closing Date Open Until Filled Yes

First Consideration Date 08/19/2026

Advertised Salary $74,761 - $76,000 depending on education and experience

Duration of the Term 12 months

Appointment Percent 100

Appointment Type Regular

Faculty Status No

Scope of Search External (includes Internal)

Department Description and Cultural Expectations: Founded in 1885, South Dakota Mines is the premier destination for ambitious students seeking bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degrees in STEM fields. Our vibrant community of supportive faculty, tenacious students, and passionate alumni fosters a culture of ingenuity, collaboration, and lifelong success. South Dakota Mines is recognized frequently for its rigorous curriculum, groundbreaking research, and return on investment.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement: South Dakota Mines is an Equal Opportunity Employer. South Dakota Mines and the Board of Regents ensure that all employment practices are free of discrimination.

South Dakota Board of Regents

306 E. Capital Ave, Suite 200

Pierre, SD 57501

605-773-3455

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