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Associate Athletic Director Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Director of Athletics

Madison, NJ · On-site

$125K - $135K/yr

Campus Recreation, Club Sports, and Intramurals indirectly report to the Director through an Associate Athletic Director. The Director is a visible campus leader who connects athletics to Drew ...

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Associate Athletic Director information

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$16.5K

$62.2K

$118.5K

How much do associate athletic director jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 18, 2026, the average yearly pay for associate athletic director 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 the difference between Associate Athletic Director vs Athletic Director?

AspectAssociate Athletic DirectorAthletic Director
ResponsibilitiesSupports senior management, manages specific departments or programs, oversees operationsOverall leadership of athletic department, strategic planning, budget management, hiring
Required CredentialsRelevant experience in sports management, often a master's degree, certificationsExtensive experience in athletic administration, advanced degrees often preferred
Work EnvironmentCollege or university athletic departments, sports organizationsSame as Associate Athletic Director, higher-level decision-making

The main difference between an Associate Athletic Director and an Athletic Director lies in scope and responsibility. The Associate Athletic Director typically supports the department's leadership by managing specific areas, while the Athletic Director holds overall responsibility for the entire athletic program. Both roles require relevant experience and credentials, but the Athletic Director has broader strategic and administrative duties.

What are Associate Athletic Directors?

Associate Athletic Directors are senior administrators within a college or university's athletic department who help oversee the daily operations, compliance, and strategic planning of sports programs. They often supervise specific areas such as compliance, facilities, marketing, or student-athlete services, and report to the Athletic Director. Their roles may include managing budgets, coordinating events, enforcing NCAA regulations, and supporting coaches and athletes. The position requires strong leadership, organizational, and communication skills, as well as a thorough understanding of collegiate athletics.

Can you be an athletic director with an associate's degree?

Typically, an associate athletic director position requires at least a bachelor's degree in sports management, business, or a related field, along with relevant experience. An associate's degree alone usually does not meet the educational requirements for this role, which often involves overseeing programs, managing staff, and coordinating athletic activities. Additional certifications or advanced degrees can enhance qualifications for higher-level athletic director positions.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Associate Athletic Director, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Associate Athletic Director, you typically need a solid background in sports administration, budgeting, and compliance, often supported by a bachelor’s or master’s degree in sports management or a related field. Familiarity with NCAA regulations, athletic management software, and event scheduling systems is crucial. Exceptional leadership, communication, and organizational skills set top candidates apart by enabling effective team management and stakeholder engagement. These abilities are vital for maintaining program integrity, ensuring regulatory compliance, and delivering successful athletic programs.

What does an associate director of athletics do?

An associate athletic director supports the overall management of an athletic department, overseeing areas such as compliance, student-athlete welfare, event operations, and staff coordination. They often assist with budgeting, strategic planning, and implementing policies to ensure smooth athletic programs and adherence to regulations.

How does an Associate Athletic Director typically collaborate with coaches and other department staff?

An Associate Athletic Director works closely with coaches, trainers, and administrative staff to ensure the smooth operation of athletic programs. This collaboration often involves coordinating schedules, managing compliance with regulations, and supporting the development of student-athletes. Regular meetings and open communication are essential, as the Associate Athletic Director often acts as a bridge between coaching staff and upper administration, helping to align departmental goals and address challenges as they arise.

Who is the highest paid athletic director?

The highest paid athletic directors are typically those at major Division I universities, with salaries often exceeding $1 million annually. Compensation varies based on the institution's size, revenue, and success, and may include bonuses and benefits. Top earners are usually involved in large-scale athletic programs with significant media rights deals and sponsorships.

How much do associate athletic directors make?

Associate athletic directors typically earn between $60,000 and $120,000 annually, depending on the institution, location, and experience. They often oversee sports programs, manage staff, and handle administrative duties within athletic departments.
More about Associate Athletic Director jobs
What cities are hiring for Associate Athletic Director jobs? Cities with the most Associate Athletic Director job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Athletic Director jobs? The most popular types of Athletic Director jobs are:
What states have the most Associate Athletic Director jobs? States with the most job openings for Associate Athletic Director jobs include:
Infographic showing various Associate Athletic Director job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 67% Full Time, 30% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $62,246 per year, or $29.9 per hour.
Assistant Athletic Director for Performance Nutrition

Assistant Athletic Director for Performance Nutrition

University of Idaho

Moscow, ID • On-site

$51K - $65K/yr

Full-time

Posted 8 days ago


University Of Idaho rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 30 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

326th of 555 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Position Details
Position Information
Internal Posting?
Posting Number
SP005366P
Position Title
Assistant Athletic Director for Performance Nutrition
Division/College
Athletics
Department
Intercollegiate Athletics Misc
Location
Moscow
Posting Context Statement
The Assistant Athletic Director for Performance Nutrition leads and manages a comprehensive nutrition program to enhance the performance and recovery of student-athletes during training, practice, rehabilitation and competition. The individual reports directly to the Senior Associate Athletic Director for Internal Operations.
Position Overview
The Assistant Athletic Director for Performance Nutrition leads and manages a comprehensive nutrition program to enhance the performance and recovery of student-athletes during training, practice, rehabilitation and competition.
Responsibilities include but are not limited to:
  • Managing Performance Nutrition fellows/interns and nutrition students; managing performance nutrition research efforts
  • Providing scientifically accurate and evidence-based sports nutrition education to student-athletes, coaches from 14 varsity teams and sport performance practitioners
  • Analyzing and educating athletes and staff on body composition testing and developing nutritional strategies essential to maximizing performance including enhancing and monitoring current nutrition resources and support, developing and implementing policies and protocols that ensure compliance with NCAA and Big Sky rules and regulations
  • Providing sports nutrition counseling to assist student-athletes seeking to change body composition for optimal health and performance, or who may have special dietary requirements
  • Directing all day-to-day sports nutrition related activities; address a wide range of sports related injuries and health issues including eating disorders, weight management, gastrointestinal complications, diabetes, sports related concussions, bone breaks, stress fractures and soft tissue injuries
  • Maintaining professional competency and skills required for professional practice. The individual reports directly to the Senior Associate Athletic Director of Internal Administration and Wellness

Unit URL
govandals.com
Position Qualifications
Required Experience
  • Experience in nutrition counseling and life skill development for athletes and coaches
  • Experience with research of the physiological, nutritional, motor movement and training principles that influence athletic performance
  • Building relationships with staff, clients and/or students
  • Multitasking and managing several projects simultaneously
  • Working in an athletic environment

Required Education
  • Master's Degree in nutrition science, kinesiology or exercise physiology

Required Other
  • Registered Dietitian with active registration by the Commission on Dietetic Registration of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics
  • LDN Certification by the state of Idaho (or the ability to immediately apply for certification upon hire)

Additional Preferred
  • Board Certified Specialist in Sports Dietetics (CSSD) or Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS) certifications
  • Excellent organizational, analytical and communication skills with the ability to design and conduct a sports nutrition program through empirically supported interventions
  • Attention to detail, strong organizational skills
  • Planning timeliness to turnaround of projects, and a strong work ethic
  • Ability to work withing framework of Federal (FERPA/HIPAA) and Idaho state laws and regulations regarding privacy and confidentiality
  • Highly developed creative and organizational skills
  • Ability to work collaboratively with a team of sport performance experts
  • Understanding of and alignment with the Core Values of University of Idaho

Physical Requirements & Working Conditions
  • None

Degree Requirement
Listed degree qualification is required at time of hire
Posting Information
FLSA Status
Exempt
Employee Category
Exempt
Pay Range
$51-65K or commensurate with experience.
Type of Appointment
Fiscal Year
FTE
1
Full Time/Part Time
Full Time
Funding
A visa sponsorship is available for the position listed in this vacancy.
No
Posting Date
07/10/2026
Closing Date
Open Until Filled
Yes
Special Instructions to Applicants
Applications received by 7/24/26 will receive first review consideration.
Applicant Resources
https://www.uidaho.edu/human-resources/careers/applicant-resources
Background Check Statement
Applicants who are selected as final possible candidates must be able to pass a criminal background check.
EEO Statement
The University of Idaho is an equal employment opportunity employer, including veterans and individuals with disabilities.

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