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Athletic Development Specialist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Head Athletic Trainer (1102)

Springfield, VA ยท On-site

$23.50 - $32/hr

Serve as the liaison with external healthcare providers, specialists, and hospitals. Communication ... Infrastructure Development * Build and refine protocols, workflows, and emergency response plans ...

Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist(CSCS)fromtheNational Strength and Conditioning ... Strong knowledge of youth athletic development, strengthand conditioning principles, and coaching ...

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Athletic Development Specialist information

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$33.5K

$81.6K

$141K

How much do athletic development specialist jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for athletic development specialist in the United States is $81,632.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $51,500.00 and $99,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an athletic development specialist, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Athletic Development Specialist, you need expertise in exercise science, kinesiology, and sports performance, often backed by a relevant bachelor's degree and certifications such as CSCS or NASM. Familiarity with performance testing tools, athlete management systems, and strength training equipment is commonly required. Exceptional communication, motivational skills, and the ability to build rapport help you effectively coach and inspire athletes. These skills and qualifications are vital for optimizing athletic performance, ensuring safety, and fostering long-term athlete development.

How does an athletic development specialist typically collaborate with coaches and athletes to create effective training programs?

Athletic Development Specialists work closely with coaches to assess individual and team needs, design training regimens, and monitor athlete progress. They regularly meet with athletes to conduct evaluations, provide feedback, and adjust programs based on performance data and goals. Collaboration often involves multidisciplinary teams, including physical therapists and nutritionists, to ensure a holistic approach to athletic improvement. This role requires strong communication skills and adaptability, as training plans must be tailored to the evolving needs of both athletes and the overall team.

What is an athletic development specialist?

An athletic development specialist is a professional who designs and implements training programs to improve athletes' strength, speed, agility, and overall performance. They often work with athletes of various levels, utilizing knowledge of sports science, biomechanics, and conditioning techniques, and may hold certifications such as CSCS or NSCA. Their role involves assessing athletes' needs, monitoring progress, and ensuring safe, effective training environments.

What does an athletic development specialist do?

An Athletic Development Specialist is responsible for designing and implementing training programs to enhance athletes' physical performance, strength, agility, and overall athletic ability. They assess individual and team needs, create personalized workouts, and monitor progress to help athletes reach their peak performance. These specialists often collaborate with coaches, physical therapists, and nutritionists to ensure a holistic approach to athlete development. Their work is crucial in both injury prevention and performance optimization for athletes at various skill levels.

What is the difference between Athletic Development Specialist vs Strength and Conditioning Coach?

AspectAthletic Development SpecialistStrength and Conditioning Coach
CertificationsCSCS, NASM, or NSCA certificationsCSCS, NSCA, or CSCCa certifications
Work EnvironmentSchools, sports teams, youth programsColleges, professional teams, fitness facilities
Industry UsageFocuses on overall athletic performance and injury preventionFocuses on strength, power, and conditioning

The Athletic Development Specialist and Strength and Conditioning Coach roles share certifications and work environments, often overlapping in sports settings. However, the Athletic Development Specialist emphasizes holistic athletic performance and injury prevention, while the Strength and Conditioning Coach concentrates on improving strength and physical conditioning. Both roles are vital in sports performance but differ in their primary focus areas.

More about Athletic Development Specialist jobs
What cities are hiring for Athletic Development Specialist jobs? Cities with the most Athletic Development Specialist job openings:
What states have the most Athletic Development Specialist jobs? States with the most job openings for Athletic Development Specialist jobs include:
Infographic showing various Athletic Development Specialist job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $81,632 per year, or $39.2 per hour.

Lead Strength & Conditioning Coach (Sports Performance)

Dark Horse Athletics

Plymouth, MN โ€ข On-site

$43K - $53K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 28 days ago


Job description

Job Title: Lead Strength & Conditioning Coach - Sports Performance
Summary
The Lead Strength & Conditioning Coach is responsible for delivering high-quality strength and conditioning training while helping maintain a focused and positive training culture. This role supports athlete development through structured strength training, movement instruction, and performance coaching with the goals of improving athletic performance, reducing injury risk, and developing lifelong fitness and movement skills.
Purpose
Provide an exceptional training experience that supports measurable progress in strength, conditioning, and overall athletic development.
Key Responsibilities
  • Lead daily strength and conditioning training sessions for athletes
  • Coach proper exercise technique and movement mechanics
  • Provide feedback and motivation to athletes during training sessions
  • Track athlete attendance, testing results, and progress
  • Facilitate performance testing and assist with program adjustments
  • Provide small group performance training sessions (SPQ)
  • Support off-ice training programs for hockey and other athletes
  • Assist with mentoring part-time staff and interns during busy seasons
  • Maintain equipment safety and facility organization
  • Troubleshoot basic issues within the FHIT Performance App
  • Open and close the training facility as needed
  • Communicate with families regarding athlete development or concerns

Scope
Responsible for day-to-day athlete development in the training facility, ensuring athletes train safely, maintain proper technique, and stay engaged in a structured performance environment.
Physical Requirements
  • Coach up to 10 training groups per day
  • Demonstrate strength training movements and properly spot athletes
  • Move and set up training equipment as needed

Working Environment
A fun, safe, and challenging sports performance training environment.
Typical seasonal hours:
Spring/Fall: 2:00 PM - 10:00 PM (varies by training schedule)
Winter: 3:00 PM - 9:00 PM (varies by training schedule)
Summer: 6:00 AM - 8:00 PM (varies by training schedule)
Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Exercise Science, Kinesiology, Sports Performance, or related field
  • CPR / AED / First Aid certification
  • Experience coaching athletes in a strength and conditioning or sports performance environment preferred
  • CSCS (Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist) or similar certification preferred