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Athletic Program Director Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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Athletic Program Director information

What is an athletic program director?

An Athletic Program Director is responsible for overseeing and managing sports programs within schools, colleges, or community organizations. They coordinate athletic schedules, supervise coaches and staff, develop program budgets, and ensure compliance with relevant regulations and policies. Their role also involves promoting positive sportsmanship and ensuring the safety and well-being of all participants. Athletic Program Directors play a key part in shaping the direction and success of athletic departments.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an athletic program director?

To thrive as an Athletic Program Director, you need strong leadership abilities, program management experience, and often a background in sports administration or a related field. Familiarity with budgeting software, scheduling systems, and compliance regulations such as NCAA or state athletic guidelines is commonly required. Exceptional communication, organizational, and problem-solving skills help in motivating staff, resolving conflicts, and fostering a positive team environment. These competencies are crucial for ensuring program success, regulatory compliance, and the overall development of athletes and staff.

What are some common challenges faced by athletic program directors, and how can they prepare to overcome them?

Athletic Program Directors often face challenges such as balancing budget constraints, managing diverse teams of coaches and staff, and ensuring compliance with relevant regulations and safety standards. They also need to foster positive relationships with student-athletes, parents, and the broader community. To overcome these challenges, candidates should develop strong organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills, as well as stay updated on best practices and regulatory requirements in athletic administration. Building a supportive network and participating in professional development can also help navigate these complexities successfully.

What is the difference between Athletic Program Director vs Athletic Coach?

AspectAthletic Program DirectorAthletic Coach
CredentialsOften requires a bachelor's degree in sports management, physical education, or related field; certifications varyTypically requires coaching certifications, relevant experience, and sometimes a degree in sports science or related field
Work EnvironmentOversees multiple teams or programs, administrative offices, and planning sessionsWorks directly with athletes, conducts training sessions, and manages team practices
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in schools, colleges, sports clubs, and community programs to manage overall athletic programsCommonly employed by schools, colleges, and sports organizations to coach individual teams

The Athletic Program Director focuses on managing entire athletic programs, including planning, administration, and oversight. In contrast, an Athletic Coach works directly with athletes to develop skills and lead team practices. Both roles require relevant certifications and experience, but their responsibilities and work environments differ significantly.

Infographic showing various Athletic Program Director job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 19% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution.

Lead Athletic Trainer

Fort Irwin, CA • On-site

Planned Systems International, Inc.
IT Services • 501 - 1,000 employees

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 8 days ago


Job description

Overview

Cognito Systems, a joint venture with Planned Systems International (PSI), is looking for a dedicated and skilled Lead Athletic Trainers to join the U.S. Army’s rapidly expanding Holistic Health and Fitness (H2F) program at Ft. Irwin, CA; 37 miles NE of Barstow, CA.

This is more than just an athletic training role, it’s an opportunity to be part of the Army’s largest human performance optimization initiative. As a key member of a interdisciplinary team, you’ll help drive real outcomes, including a 23% increase in Army Combat Fitness Test (ACFT) pass rates, reduced musculoskeletal injuries, and improvements in behavioral health. Launched in 2018 and scaled across brigades beginning in 2020, H2F has already been implemented in 45 active-duty brigades, with full expansion to 110 brigades expected by fiscal year 2027.

Learn more about the Army’s H2F program here Athletic Trainer Careers Supporting U.S. Military - PSI

Essential Functions and Job Responsibilities

As a Lead Athletic Trainer for Cognito Systems working as part of the Army’s Holistic Health and Fitness team, you are expected to perform to the minimum requirements for a Certified Athletic Trainer, as well as these additional expectations:

  • Serve as Brigade Lead Athletic Trainer and principal advisor to your Injury Control Director on basic acute care, injury control, reconditioning, and performance optimization.
  • Coordinate with Brigade H2F Strength and Conditioning team, master Fitness Trainers and Brigade Command Sergeant Major as requested to support unit development and execution of training programs in the physical domain for Soldiers with and without physical limitations.
  • Ensure education, instruction, and guidance to Soldiers and Brigade leadership within AT scope of practice is synchronized with Brigade training calendar.
  • Provide ATC overview brief as requested that can be utilized when in-processing new Soldiers to your Brigade.
    • Should include at a minimum AT introduction and description of services offered, reasons to seek AT services, and locations/hours of availability.
    • Should be developed with entire ATC team, lead is responsible for organizing and ensuring its completion.
  • Ensure safe and effective operation of equipment and tracking of supplies, report any deficiencies or needs to the Brigade Program Director.
  • Complete Monthly Status Report with emphasis on recommendations, best practices, and lessons learned.
  • In coordination with the Brigade Program Director and/or the Injury Control Director/clinical supervisor, attend and participate in meetings with Brigade leadership as requested or required.
    • It is the Lead AT’s responsibility to review meeting notes/information from meetings if not present.
  • Lead AT shall prepare and submit reports as requested by the Brigade Program Director and/or the Injury Control Director/clinical supervisor.
  • Attend and participate in meetings with other H2F Performance Team members and medical personnel as requested or required.
  • Perform other tasks within the scope of the AT position description, as assigned by the Brigade Program Director and/or the Injury Control Director/clinical supervisor.
  • Ensure yourself and fellow ATCs are completing their documentation, Monthly Status Reports, peer reviews and other required documentation in a timely manner.
  • As required, participate in H2F Program reviews to identify best practices and lessons learned throughout the H2F Program and recommend opportunities for improvement.
  • Act as the Point of Contact for Cognito Systems, relaying information and working with Project Manager as requested.
Minimum Requirements
  • Degree: Bachelor’s degree from a college or university accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Athletic Training Education (CAATE) and a Master’s Degree in a related field such as Exercise Science, Kinesiology, Sports Medicine, etc., from an accredited university.
  • Education: Graduate from a college or university accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Athletic Training Education (CAATE). Passing score from the BOC for the Athletic Trainer. National Provider Identifier (NPI).
  • Certification: Unrestricted state license/registration/certification in any of the 49 regulated states, the District of Columbia, or the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, Guam, or the US Virgin Islands to provide health care within the scope of practice for Athletic Trainers per state practice acts.
  • Experience: Five years of relevant Athletic Training work experience. Experience working with active populations (e.g. military, high school, collegiate, professional sports, performing arts, occupational health).
  • Citizenship: U.S. Citizenship.
  • Credentialing: Ability to pass background check and drug screen. Current physical and immunizations.
Physical Demands
  • The role is dynamic and on-site, requiring adaptability in a fast‑paced and multifaceted environment. Duties and priorities may shift throughout the workday, and interaction with soldiers during training or recovery is hands‑on and proactive. Must be able to lift up to 45 pounds and spend time on feet, in the elements, while carrying a supplies.
Additional Information

About Cognito Systems

Cognito Systems, a Mentor‑Protégé Joint Venture between QuarterLine Consulting Services, a subsidiary of PSI, and Resolution Think, is committed to delivering high‑quality healthcare services to military personnel and veterans. Our mission is to support the health and readiness of those who serve our nation.

Why Join Us?

Join a team that's leading the charge in revolutionizing Army fitness and wellness. The H2F program is already making measurable improvements in soldier health, from injury reduction to enhanced performance — and you can be a vital part of that impact.

Learn more about the H2F program’s national expansion

Compensation
  • Base Salary: $62,000.00 to $66,126.00 per year, depending on experience.
Company Benefits

PSI offers full‑time, benefits eligible employees a competitive total compensation package that includes paid leave, and options for employer sponsored group medical, dental, vision, short‑term and long‑term disability, life insurance, AD&D coverage, legal services, identity theft, and accident insurance. Flexible spending account and health saving account options offer pre‑tax savings for qualified medical, dental, and vision expenses. The company sponsored 401(k) retirement plan has an employer contribution match that is immediately vested. We invest in the professional growth of our employees through professional courses, certifications, and tuition reimbursement programs.

EEO Commitment

It is company policy to promote equal employment opportunities. All personnel decisions, including, but not limited to, recruiting, hiring, training, promotion, compensation, benefits, and termination, are made without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, pregnancy, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, citizenship status, veteran status, protected veteran status, disability, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law. Reasonable accommodations for applicants and employees with disabilities will be provided. If a reasonable accommodation is needed to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and/or to receive other benefits and privileges of employment, please contact Human Resources by emailing HRDepartment@plan-sys.com, or by dialing 703-575-8400.

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