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Athletic Director Jobs in Springfield, IL (NOW HIRING)

Athletic Trainer - Outreach

Springfield, IL ยท On-site

$22.25 - $30.50/hr

Responsible for serving as a clinical and educational resource for staff, students, area coaches, athletic directors and physicians while providing quality care to patients of all ages through the ...

The athletic director, who provides overall objectives and final evaluation in conjunction with the high school principals SUPERVISES: In several instances, the head coach must advise, coordinate and ...

The athletic director, who provides overall objectives and final evaluation in conjunction with the high school principals SUPERVISES: In several instances, the head coach must advise, coordinate and ...

The athletic director, who provides overall objectives and final evaluation JOB GOAL: To instruct students in the fundamental skills, strategy and other items necessary for them to realize a degree ...

The athletic director, who provides overall objectives and final evaluation JOB GOAL: To instruct students in the fundamental skills, strategy and other items necessary for them to realize a degree ...

The athletic director, who provides overall objectives and final evaluation JOB GOAL: To instruct students in the fundamental skills, strategy and other items necessary for them to realize a degree ...

The athletic director, who provides overall objectives and final evaluation JOB GOAL: To instruct students in the fundamental skills, strategy and other items necessary for them to realize a degree ...

Multi-Area Director

Springfield, IL ยท On-site

$100 - $180/hr

The Director is responsible for growing the ministry by praying, staffing, and funding the area ... Train and equip staff to empower coaches and athletes to be disciples who make disciples in the ...

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Athletic Director information

See Springfield, IL salary details

$16.4K

$61.7K

$117.4K

How much do athletic director jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for athletic director in Springfield, IL is $61,693.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $40,100.00 and $76,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an athletic director?

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.

Is it hard to get an athletic director job?

Securing an athletic director position can be competitive, often requiring extensive experience in sports management, leadership skills, and relevant certifications. Candidates typically need a background in coaching, administration, or related fields, along with strong organizational and communication abilities.

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.

Do athletic directors make a lot of money?

Athletic directors typically earn a median salary ranging from $60,000 to $100,000 annually, depending on the size of the institution and location. Larger schools or professional sports organizations tend to offer higher compensation, and leadership skills along with relevant experience can influence salary levels.

Is there a demand for athletic directors?

The demand for athletic directors is expected to grow as schools and sports organizations expand their programs, requiring qualified professionals to manage athletic departments. Employment opportunities are typically available in educational institutions, sports clubs, and community organizations, often requiring relevant experience and certifications. Job prospects can vary based on region and level of education or sports specialization.

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 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.

What are popular job titles related to Athletic Director jobs in Springfield, IL? For Athletic Director jobs in Springfield, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Athletic Director jobs in Springfield, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Athletic Director jobs in Springfield, IL are:
What cities near Springfield, IL are hiring for Athletic Director jobs? Cities near Springfield, IL with the most Athletic Director job openings:
Infographic showing various Athletic Director job openings in Springfield, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 8% Contract. Highlights an 92% In-person, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $61,693 per year, or $29.7 per hour.

$16 - $20.75/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 11 hours ago


Job description

Position Type:
Schedule B and Additional Duties/Coaching
Date Posted:
7/7/2026
Location:
Dennis Lab School
Date Available:
ASAP
Closing Date:
until filled
TITLE: Middle School Cross Country Coach
PURPOSE:Instruct athletes in team and individual fundamentals, strategies, and physical training necessary for them to realize individual and team success. At the same time, the student shall receive instruction that will lead to the formulation of positive values, pride of accomplishment, acceptable social behavior, self-discipline and self-confidence.
QUALIFICATIONS:
  • Current Illinois Teaching Certificate or IESA/Human Kinetics Coaching Essentials (Formerly ASEP)
  • Prior participation or coaching experience in sports preferred
  • Effective communication skills
  • Exemplary character and ethics
  • All coaches must submit to a criminal background check
  • Obtain/Maintain CPR/AED Certification
  • Successfully complete prior to start of season, IESA/IHSA concussion protocol (renew every two years)
  • Complete assigned District on-line trainings

REPORTS TO:
Athletic Director and Principal
KNOWLEDGE OF SPORT:
  • Basic Coaching Strategies and Principles as specific to the sport of cross country
  1. Athletes should be instructed on setting personal running pace, building endurance, and developing proper running gait
  2. Ability to teach and/or demonstrate correct performance skills necessary to run cross country

PERFORMANCE RESPONSIBILITIES:
(The following are the essential fundamentals to include but not limited to the following job duties.)
Program Administration
  • Demonstrates exemplary sportsmanship and good character within all aspects of the program.
  • Assists in scheduling of practices.
  • Completes IESA forms/online entries with the assistance of the athletic director (as required).
  • Collects and submits all forms, waivers, and participation fees from athletes prior to first contest to building athletic director.
  • Adheres to IESA Eligibility requirements.
  • Supportive of the District and the program at all times.
  • Arrives prior to athletes and is prepared for all scheduled practices/meets; and remains until all student athletes are in custody of a parent/guardian prior to leaving all practices/events for this sport.
  • Creates, with athletic director approval, a set of team rules and guidelines that are to be signed off on by athletes and parents prior to first official contest and a copy given to building administrator.

Communication
  • Conducts parent informational meeting at start of season, prior to first official contest.
  • Communicates with athletic director on a frequent basis.
  • Creates a mandatory emergency contact information sheet and shares with athletic director and building administration prior to first contest.
  • Ensures that all athletes and parents have necessary season practice/meet schedules.
  • Communicates with all parties when schedules necessitate a change.
  • Communicates with other coaches within the building, and within the sport at other levels.

TERMS OF EMPLOYMENT:
Salary to be based upon Schedule B of collective negotiation bargaining.
EVALUATION:
This position is evaluated annually by the athletic director and building administration.
MENTAL DEMANDS/PHYSICAL DEMANDS/ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS:
Maintain emotional control under stress. Maintain positive attitude when dealing with students, parents, staff and the public. Frequent district and some statewide travel is required. Work with frequent interruptions, frequent prolonged and irregular hours. Possible exposure to hot or cold weather conditions.
Decatur Public Schools is an equal employment opportunity employer with an affirmative action plan.
Attachment(s):
  • Middle School Cross Country Coach BOE Approved 8 6 19.docx