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Athletic Director Jobs in Rio Rancho, NM (NOW HIRING)

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Athletic Director information

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$15.5K

$58.5K

$111.5K

How much do athletic director jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for athletic director in Rio Rancho, NM is $58,549.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $38,100.00 and $72,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Athletic Directors?

Athletic Directors are professionals who manage and oversee sports programs at schools, colleges, or other organizations. They are responsible for hiring coaches, coordinating game schedules, budgeting, and ensuring compliance with regulations. Athletic Directors play a crucial role in promoting sportsmanship, student-athlete welfare, and program success. They often work closely with administrators, coaches, and the community to build strong athletic programs.

Who is the highest paid athletic director?

The highest paid athletic directors typically work at large Division I universities or professional sports organizations, 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 often have extensive experience and strong leadership skills in sports administration.

What are some common challenges Athletic Directors face when managing sports programs?

Athletic Directors often face challenges balancing limited budgets while ensuring all teams have the resources they need to succeed. They also navigate compliance with league and school regulations, coordinate scheduling for multiple sports, and manage the expectations of coaches, athletes, and parents. Strong communication and organizational skills are essential for problem-solving and maintaining a positive environment. Collaborating effectively with school administration and community stakeholders is also key to overcoming these challenges.

What Does an Athletic Director Do?

An athletic director is a school administrator who runs all aspects of the sports program for a school or institution. An athletic director provides strategic direction for the program and all of its coaches, athletes, and staff. Athletic directors manage the program budget and administer recruiting initiatives, staff scheduling, and benchmarks. The athletic director of a college or university also works with regulatory agencies, such as the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA), to ensure compliance with policies and mandates.

What qualifications do I need to be an athletic director?

To become an athletic director, candidates typically need a bachelor's degree in sports management, physical education, or a related field, along with several years of experience in coaching or sports administration. Many positions also prefer or require a master's degree and relevant certifications such as the Certified Athletic Administrator (CAA) credential. Strong leadership, organizational skills, and knowledge of sports programs are essential for success in this role.

What does an athletic director do?

An athletic director oversees the management and operation of sports programs at schools or organizations, including hiring coaches, managing budgets, and ensuring compliance with regulations. They coordinate athletic events, promote student-athlete development, and often hold certifications in sports management or related fields. The role requires strong leadership, organizational skills, and knowledge of sports policies.

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

To thrive as an Athletic Director, you need expertise in sports management, budgeting, and organizational leadership, often supported by a degree in sports administration or a related field. Familiarity with compliance systems, scheduling software, and certifications like CPR or First Aid are typically required. Strong interpersonal, communication, and conflict resolution skills help build relationships with coaches, athletes, and stakeholders. These abilities are crucial to effectively manage athletic programs, ensure regulatory compliance, and foster a positive sports environment.

What degree is best for athletic director?

A bachelor's degree in sports management, physical education, or a related field is typically required for an athletic director. Many employers prefer candidates with a master's degree in sports administration, business, or education, along with experience in coaching or athletic program management.

What is the difference between Athletic Director vs Coach?

AspectAthletic DirectorCoach
Required CredentialsOften requires a bachelor's degree in sports management, physical education, or related field; coaching certifications may be preferredTypically requires coaching certifications, relevant experience, and sometimes a bachelor's degree in a related field
Work EnvironmentAdministrative setting overseeing multiple teams and staff at schools or sports organizationsOn-field or gym environment directly coaching athletes and teams
Employer & Industry UsageSchools, colleges, universities, sports clubsSchools, sports teams, athletic programs

The main difference between an Athletic Director and a Coach lies in their responsibilities. An Athletic Director manages the overall athletic programs, budgets, and staff, while a Coach focuses on training and developing athletes. Both roles require relevant certifications and experience, but their daily tasks and scope differ significantly.

More about Athletic Director jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Athletic jobs in Rio Rancho, NM? The most popular types of Athletic jobs in Rio Rancho, NM are:
What job categories do people searching Athletic Director jobs in Rio Rancho, NM look for? The top searched job categories for Athletic Director jobs in Rio Rancho, NM are:
What cities near Rio Rancho, NM are hiring for Athletic Director jobs? Cities near Rio Rancho, NM with the most Athletic Director job openings:
Athletic Director jobs near you
Infographic showing various Athletic Director job openings in Rio Rancho, NM as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 68% Full Time, 24% Part Time, 3% Temporary, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $58,549 per year, or $28.1 per hour.

Assistant Athletic Director of Compliance

University of New Mexico

Albuquerque, NM • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 9 days ago

University Of New Mexico rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 55 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

96th of 614 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Sports Compliance Coord
Requisition ID
req37386
Working Title
Assistant Athletic Director of Compliance
Position Grade
12
Position Summary
Are you passionate about collegiate athletics, NCAA regulations, and helping student-athletes succeed? The University of New Mexico Athletics Department is seeking a Assistant Athletic Director of Compliance to play a critical leadership role in supporting the integrity and success of our Division I athletic programs.
In this highly visible position, you'll serve as the primary compliance resource for coaches, administrators, and staff while helping ensure that UNM's athletic programs operate with the highest standards of NCAA and Mountain West Conference compliance.
If you're an experienced compliance professional who thrives in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment and enjoys making a meaningful impact on student-athlete success, we want to hear from you.
What You'll Do
As the Assistant Athletic Director of Compliance, you will:
  • Oversee NCAA and Mountain West Conference compliance for UNM Athletics.
  • Determine student-athlete eligibility for financial aid, competition, practice participation, and continuing eligibility.
  • Manage and maintain eligibility records and squad lists for all Division I athletic programs.
  • Serve as the primary NCAA rules interpretation resource for coaches, staff, and administrators.
  • Develop and deliver compliance education and training programs across the department.
  • Monitor recruiting activities, official visits, playing and practice seasons, and other NCAA-regulated activities.
  • Maintain compliance software systems and reporting processes.
  • Assist with investigations, documentation, and reporting of potential NCAA or conference violations.
  • Administer the Mountain West Conference Special Assistance Fund.
  • Support a culture of integrity, accountability, and student-athlete success.

Why UNM Athletics?
At UNM, you'll join a dedicated team committed to academic achievement, competitive excellence, and the holistic success of student-athletes. This is an exciting opportunity to help shape the future of Division I athletics while working at New Mexico's flagship university in the vibrant city of Albuquerque.
Join Us In:
• Protecting the integrity of Division I athletics
• Supporting student-athlete success on and off the field
• Educating and empowering coaches and staff
• Building a culture of compliance and excellence
Why Join UNM?
At UNM, you'll be part of New Mexico's flagship university, where employees are valued, supported, and encouraged to grow both personally and professionally.
Outstanding Benefits Include:
Comprehensive Healthcare
  • Competitive medical, dental, and vision coverage options for you and your family.

Retirement Security
  • Pension benefits and access to additional retirement plans with generous employer contributions.

Time Off
  • Up to 168 hours of annual vacation leave.
  • Up to 96 hours of sick leave annually.
  • 11 paid holidays each year to support work-life balance.

Professional Development & Education
  • Career advancement opportunities.
  • Continuous learning and professional development programs.
  • Tuition remission benefits for employees and eligible dependents.

Wellness & Well-Being
  • Access to wellness programs, fitness resources, and services focused on employee health and well-being.

Vibrant Campus Community
  • Engage with a diverse and dynamic community through cultural events, athletic competitions, educational programs, and recreational opportunities.

Stability & Growth
  • Competitive compensation, strong job security, and opportunities for advancement within one of New Mexico's most respected institutions.

Ready to Make an Impact?
Bring your knowledge, leadership, and passion for collegiate athletics to the University of New Mexico. Join a program committed to excellence, integrity, and the development of student-athletes.
Apply today and become part of the University of New Mexico's commitment to excellence, accountability, and student-athlete success.
Compliance with all NCAA rules and regulations is required in this position. The University of New Mexico provides all OSHA-required employee safety training and is committed to creating an inclusive and supportive workplace for all employees.
See the Position Description for additional information.
Conditions of Employment
  • Compliance with all NCAA rules and regulations is required in this position.

Minimum Qualifications
Bachelor's degree; at least 1 year of experience directly related to the duties and responsibilities specified.
Completed degree(s) from an accredited institution that are above the minimum education requirement may be substituted for experience on a year for year basis.
Preferred Qualifications
Ideal candidates will demonstrate:
  • Strong knowledge of NCAA legislation, recruiting regulations, and student-athlete eligibility requirements.
  • Experience interpreting and applying NCAA and conference rules.
  • Outstanding interpersonal, communication, and relationship-building skills.
  • Experience presenting training and educational programs.
  • Strong organizational skills with exceptional attention to detail.
  • Experience working with compliance databases, recordkeeping systems, and reporting tools.
  • Ability to collaborate effectively with coaches, administrators, student-athletes, and campus partners.
  • Knowledge of financial aid policies and student-athlete support programs.

Additional Requirements
Campus
Main - Albuquerque, NM
Department
Athletics Compliance (925F4)
Employment Type
Staff
Staff Type
Regular - Full-Time
Term End Date
Status
Exempt
Pay
Monthly: $3,882.67 - $5,453.07
Benefits Eligible
This is a benefits eligible position. The University of New Mexico provides a comprehensive package of benefits including medical, dental, vision, and life insurance. In addition, UNM offers educational benefits through the tuition remission and dependent education programs. See the Benefits home page for a more information.
ERB Statement
As a condition of employment, eligible employees working greater than .25 FTE as determined by the New Mexico Education Retirement Act must make mandatory retirement contributions. For more information, review the Benefits Eligibility at a Glance grid.
Background Check Required
For Best Consideration Date
7/31/2026
Eligible for Hiring Incentive
No
Eligible for Remote Work
Eligible for Remote Work Statement
Application Instructions
Only applications submitted through the official UNMJobs site will be accepted. If you are viewing this job advertisement on a 3rd party site, please visit UNMJobs to submit an application.
Please attach cover letter, updated resume, and a list of at least three professional references.
Positions posted with a Staff Type of Regular or Term are eligible for the Veteran Preference Program. See the Veteran Preference Program webpage for additional details.
The University of New Mexico is committed to hiring and retaining a diverse workforce. We are an Equal Opportunity Employer, making decisions without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, or any other protected class.
The University of New Mexico requires all regular staff positions successfully pass a pre-employment background check. This may include, but is not limited to, a criminal history background check, New Mexico Department of Health fingerprint screening, New Mexico Children, Youth, and Families Department fingerprint screening, verification of education credentials, and/or verification of prior employment. For more information about background checks, visit https://policy.unm.edu/university-policies/3000/3280.html. Refer to https://policy.unm.edu/university-policies/3000/3200.html for a definition of Regular Staff.

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