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Athletic Development Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

About Us The Nurture Group specializes in youth athletic development through our signature Track Tots (ages 2-6) and Track Stars (ages 7-12) programs. We believe in creating positive, encouraging ...

This role is responsible for delivering high-quality on-field physical preparation, conditioning, speed development, recovery, and athlete development programmes that enhance the performance ...

This role is responsible for delivering high-quality on-field physical preparation, conditioning, speed development, recovery, and athlete development programmes that enhance the performance ...

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Athletic Development information

See California salary details

$22K

$51.7K

$113.6K

How much do athletic development jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 18, 2026, the average yearly pay for athletic development in California is $51,694.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $37,700.00 and $49,940.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in Athletic Development, and why are they important?

To excel in Athletic Development, you need a solid background in exercise science, kinesiology, or related fields, often supported by a relevant degree and practical coaching experience. Familiarity with performance analysis software, strength and conditioning certifications (such as CSCS), and modern training equipment is vital. Outstanding interpersonal skills, motivational ability, and adaptability help build rapport with athletes and tailor programs to individual needs. These competencies are crucial for maximizing athletic performance, ensuring safety, and fostering long-term growth in athletes.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in Athletic Development, and how can they be overcome?

Professionals in Athletic Development often encounter challenges such as balancing the diverse needs of athletes, integrating new training technologies, and staying updated with the latest research in sports science. Managing individual and team progress while preventing injuries requires strong communication skills and adaptability. Collaborating closely with coaches, medical staff, and athletes is key to creating tailored development plans and ensuring optimal performance. Continuous professional development and networking with industry peers can help overcome these challenges and promote career growth.

What can I do with an athletic development management degree?

An athletic development management degree prepares individuals for roles such as athletic development coordinator, sports performance coach, or fitness program manager. Graduates can work in sports teams, fitness facilities, or youth programs, often utilizing skills in training, injury prevention, and program planning, sometimes requiring certifications like NSCA or NASM. Career advancement may involve leadership positions or specialization in sports science or rehabilitation.

What do you do in sports development?

In athletic development, professionals focus on improving athletes' physical performance through training, conditioning, and skill development. They often design personalized programs, monitor progress, and may work with coaches and sports scientists to optimize training routines and prevent injuries.

What is the highest paid job in sports?

In sports, the highest paid roles are typically top-tier professional athletes, such as star quarterbacks in football, basketball players, or top soccer players, who can earn multi-million dollar salaries and endorsement deals. Athletic development professionals generally earn less, with salaries varying based on experience, location, and level of responsibility. Executive roles like team owners or high-level sports executives can also command significant compensation but are less common for individuals pursuing athletic development careers.

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

AspectAthletic DevelopmentStrength and Conditioning Coach
CredentialsCertifications like NSCA CSCS, NASM, or USAW; relevant degrees in sports science or kinesiologySimilar certifications; often holds NSCA CSCS or CSCCa certifications
Work EnvironmentWorks with athletes on skill, agility, and overall athleticism, often in training facilities or sports teamsFocuses on improving strength, power, and conditioning, typically in gyms or training centers
Employer & IndustrySports teams, youth programs, athletic training centersColleges, professional sports teams, fitness facilities

While both roles aim to enhance athletic performance, Athletic Development emphasizes overall athletic skills and sport-specific training, whereas Strength and Conditioning Coaches focus primarily on physical strength and conditioning. Both careers require similar certifications and often overlap in work environments, but their core focus areas differ slightly.

What is athletic development?

Athletic development refers to the process of improving an individual's overall physical abilities, skills, and performance for sports or physical activities. It involves structured training programs that focus on strength, speed, agility, endurance, flexibility, and sport-specific skills. Athletic development is essential for athletes of all ages and skill levels to maximize their potential, prevent injuries, and achieve long-term success in their chosen sport.

What jobs in the US pay 300,000 a year?

In athletic development, high-level sports coaches, athletic directors, and sports medicine physicians can earn salaries approaching or exceeding $300,000 annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced certifications, and working in professional or collegiate sports environments. These roles often require specialized skills, leadership abilities, and a strong network within the sports industry.
What are popular job titles related to Athletic Development jobs in California? For Athletic Development jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in California are hiring for Athletic Development jobs? Cities in California with the most Athletic Development job openings:
Sports Performance & Fitness Coach

Sports Performance & Fitness Coach

The Urban School of San Francisco

San Francisco, CA • On-site

$45 - $57.50/hr

Part-time

Posted 10 days ago


Job description

Job Title: Sports Performance & Fitness Coach

Classification: Limited Part-time, Non-exempt, Instructional Support, StaffReporting to: Athletic DirectorSchedule - School Year: 36 weeks at 13 hours per week. Anticipated schedule is Monday through Thursday, 3:00 PM – 5:30 PM, and Friday, 7:00 AM – 8:30 AM & 3:00 PM – 4:30 PM.Summer: 6 weeks at 4 hours per week (schedule to be determined).Compensation: $45.00 - $57.50/hour

Urban School of San Francisco seeks a Sports Performance & Fitness Coach to help shape an inclusive, student-centered approach to strength, movement, and wellness.

At Urban, we take fitness seriously—and we take everyone seriously. This role sits at the intersection of athletic performance and personal development, supporting student-athletes competing at the highest level alongside students building confidence, agency, and lifelong habits around movement. We hold both with equal rigor. Our approach is demanding and inclusive, outcome-driven and student-centered.

Three Components of the Role:

1. Team Athletics Partner with coaching staff to design and deliver strength, conditioning, and movement programming for competitive teams. You understand periodization, injury prevention, and what it takes to help a team peak at the right moment.

2. Group Fitness Classes Lead dynamic, high-energy classes that meet students where they are—from beginners to varsity athletes. You build community through movement and know how to read a room and push it.

3. Individual Student-Athlete Development Work 1:1 with student-athletes to assess, program, and track progress toward personal performance goals. You're a coach, a motivator, and sometimes a sounding board.



About Urban

Urban is a coeducational independent high school serving approximately 420 students in grades 9–12. Grounded in equity, inclusion, and experiential learning, Urban encourages students to explore new challenges and define success on their own terms.

Our athletics and fitness programs reflect that philosophy: broad-based, inclusive, and designed to meet students wherever they are.



Position Overview

The Sports Performance & Fitness Coach leads a flexible, developmentally grounded program rooted in Long-Term Athletic Development (LTAD). The program serves both competitive athletes and the broader student body, including students using the fitness space for general health, exploration, and personal goals.

This role also oversees Urban’s fitness facilities and collaborates closely with the Director of Athletics, Athletic Trainer, and coaching staff.

Core Responsibilities

Program Design & Coaching

  • Design, implement and lead inclusive training sessions focused on strength, movement quality, mobility, and overall fitness

  • Adapt programming for a wide range of students—from beginners to experienced athletes

  • Support both team-based athletic development and general fitness participation

  • Integrate injury prevention and sustainable training habits using best practices and research in sports medicine

  • Stay current with best practices in sports performance, youth development, and injury prevention

  • Support initiatives related to nutrition, recovery, and student education in partnership with Urban’s counseling, health and student life teams

Student & Student Athlete Development

  • Teach safe technique and foundational movement skills and training habits

  • Build confidence, consistency and self-directed engagement in fitness

  • Create a welcoming environment for all students, regardless of experience or athletic identity

  • Encourage lifelong wellness and positive relationships with movement

  • Educate student-athletes on training principles, recovery, and long-term health

Facility Oversight and Management

  • Oversee daily operations of the fitness and training spaces

  • Maintain a clean, safe, organized, and well-supervised environment

  • Manage equipment and supply use, maintenance, and inventory

  • Establish and enforce facility policies, safety protocols, and supervision standards

  • Monitor training sessions to ensure proper technique and safe use of all equipment

  • Collaborate on long-term planning for facility upgrades, layout, and equipment needs

Collaboration

  • Partner with coaches to align training with team goals and seasonal demands

  • Work with the Athletic Trainer (ATC) on injury prevention and return-to-play

  • Communicate clearly with athletes, coaches and administrators

  • Contribute to a collaborative, student-centered department culture

Program Support and Operations

  • Track participation and student progress using appropriate tools and metrics

  • Help evolve Urban’s approach to fitness, wellness, and performance

  • Assist with scheduling, reporting, and athletic program logistics

Qualifications
  • Bachelor’s degree in Exercise Science, Kinesiology, or related field preferred

  • 2–5 years of relevant experience (high school setting preferred)

  • Experience working with high school, collegiate or professional athletes preferred

  • CSCS (NSCA) and/or CSCCa certification or working towards certification

  • CPR/AED certification

  • Strong organizational skills and attention to detail

  • Working knowledge of spreadsheets and basic data tracking tools



What We’re Looking For

An educator-coach who values working with all students—not just athletes. Someone who can challenge experienced athletes while also making the fitness space approachable for beginners.

The right candidate brings clarity, adaptability, and a commitment to inclusion, understanding that success looks different for each student—and that all of those paths matter.

Working Conditions

Work is performed primarily indoors within the school fitness facility and gymnasium, involving exposure to moderate-to-loud noise levels, music, and highly active group environments.

Physical Requirements (Essential Physical Tasks)

  • Ability to stand, walk, and lead active instruction on one's feet for extended periods during classes and training sessions.

  • Capability to actively demonstrate complex movement skills, Olympic lifts, and strength exercises, which requires running, jumping, bending, spotting athletes, and lifting moderate-to-heavy fitness equipment.