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Graduate Assistant Strength Conditioning Jobs in Illinois

The Graduate Assistant will assist the Assistant Athletic Director for Sports Performance/Head Strength and Conditioning Coach with the daily operation of the Strength and Conditioning program.

The Graduate Assistant will assist the Assistant Athletic Director for Sports Performance/Head Strength and Conditioning Coach with the daily operation of the Strength and Conditioning program.

The Graduate Assistant will assist the Assistant Athletic Director for Sports Performance/Head Strength and Conditioning Coach with the daily operation of the Strength and Conditioning program.

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Graduate Assistant Strength Conditioning information

See Illinois salary details

$5

$18

$32

How much do graduate assistant strength conditioning jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for graduate assistant strength conditioning in Illinois is $18.95, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.66 and $20.72 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the typical responsibilities of a graduate assistant strength conditioning during a sports season?

As a Graduate Assistant Strength and Conditioning coach, you will typically assist in designing, implementing, and monitoring training programs for student-athletes across multiple sports. Your daily tasks may include leading group workouts, conducting fitness assessments, maintaining weight room equipment, and tracking athletes’ progress. You’ll also collaborate closely with head coaches, athletic trainers, and other staff to ensure safe and effective training tailored to each team’s needs. Balancing coaching duties with academic responsibilities can be challenging, but it offers valuable hands-on experience and networking opportunities that can pave the way for full-time roles in the field.

What is the difference between Graduate Assistant Strength Conditioning vs Graduate Assistant Sports Performance?

AspectGraduate Assistant Strength ConditioningGraduate Assistant Sports Performance
Required CertificationsCSCS, CSCCa, or NSCA certifications often preferredSimilar certifications like CSCS or NSCA are common
Work EnvironmentCollege/university athletic facilities, gyms, training centersCollege/university athletic facilities, gyms, training centers
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in collegiate athletic programs, fitness centersUsed in collegiate athletic programs, fitness centers
Common Search & Comparison IntentYesYes

Both roles involve working in collegiate athletic settings, focusing on athlete training and conditioning. The main difference lies in terminology; 'Strength Conditioning' emphasizes physical training and strength development, while 'Sports Performance' may encompass a broader approach including speed, agility, and overall athletic performance. Candidates should expect similar certifications and work environments for both roles.

What is a graduate assistant strength conditioning?

Graduate Assistant Strength Conditioning coaches are graduate students who assist in designing and implementing strength and conditioning programs for athletes at colleges or universities. They work under the supervision of head strength coaches, helping with training sessions, monitoring athlete progress, and sometimes conducting research related to sports performance. These positions offer valuable hands-on experience and often include tuition assistance as part of the compensation. Graduate assistants balance their coaching duties with their own coursework as they pursue advanced degrees in fields like exercise science, kinesiology, or sports management.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a graduate assistant strength conditioning, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Graduate Assistant Strength and Conditioning Coach, you need a solid understanding of exercise science, anatomy, and program design, typically supported by a bachelor's degree in a related field. Familiarity with strength training equipment, performance tracking software, and certifications such as CSCS (Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist) or SCCC are often required. Outstanding interpersonal skills, leadership, and the ability to motivate and communicate effectively with student-athletes are essential soft skills. These qualifications are crucial for safely improving athletic performance, ensuring compliance with best practices, and fostering a positive, results-driven environment.
What cities in Illinois are hiring for Graduate Assistant Strength Conditioning jobs? Cities in Illinois with the most Graduate Assistant Strength Conditioning job openings:
Infographic showing various Graduate Assistant Strength Conditioning job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 58% Full Time, and 42% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $39,412 per year, or $18.9 per hour.

Graduate Assistant - Strength and Conditioning

Svsu

Campus, IL • On-site

$15.52/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 17 days ago


Job description

Job Title:

Graduate Assistant - Strength and Conditioning

Full or Part Time:

Part time

Hours:

20

Exempt:

No

Supervisory Org:

Athletic Performance (JM-SE)

Job Description:

JOB TITLE: Graduate Assistant - Strength and Conditioning

DEPARTMENT: Athletics

WAGE: $15.52/hour

JOB SUMMARY:

Saginaw Valley State University, a NCAA Division II member of the Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference, invites applications for the position of Graduate Assistant Coach for Strength and Conditioning. The Graduate Assistant will assist the Assistant Athletic Director for Sports Performance/Head Strength and Conditioning Coach with the daily operation of the Strength and Conditioning program. Responsibilities include supporting the development and implementation of strength and conditioning programs, assisting with student-athlete performance assessments, maintaining program records, supporting equipment management, and contributing to the physical development and overall success of student-athletes competing at the regional and national levels.

This position provides valuable professional experience in collegiate strength and conditioning while supporting the mission and goals of the Athletics Department.

Graduate Assistantsare required towork a minimum of 10 hours per week. During the fall and winter semesters, work hours may not exceed 24 hours per week. During the spring and summer semesters, Graduate Assistants may work up to, but not exceed,40 hoursper week.

This appointment is for a maximum of two calendar years.

JOB DETAILS:

ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Demonstrate knowledge of and adherence to applicable university, conference, and NCAA rules and regulations.
  • Assist in supporting compliance with institutional, conference, and NCAA policies and regulations, including student-athlete eligibility, recruiting activities, scheduling, and academic progress.
  • Abide by NCAA Bylaws 10.1 and 11.1 regarding ethical conduct and contribute positively to a culture of NCAA rules compliance.
  • Assist with departmental and individual record keeping related to strength and conditioning programming, testing, and student-athlete assessments.
  • Assist with the implementation and supervision of strength and conditioning activities under the direction of the Head Strength and Conditioning Coach.
  • Establish and maintain positive working relationships with athletics staff, academic departments, and campus partners.
  • Assist with the purchase, inventory, maintenance, and organization of strength and conditioning equipment and facilities.
  • Support recruiting activities as requested and in accordance with NCAA regulations.
  • Assist with the design and implementation of off-season and in-season strength and conditioning programs.
  • Support fundraising initiatives, special events, and departmental projects as assigned.
  • Maintain appropriate communication with student-athletes while fostering a positive and supportive environment.
  • Assist with continuing education initiatives, professional development activities, and departmental collaborations.
  • Assist with occasional facilities and event operations as assigned by the Assistant Athletic Director for Facilities and Events.
  • Perform related duties as assigned by Athletics Administration and the Assistant Athletic Director for Sports Performance/Head Strength and Conditioning Coach.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.

SUPERVISION RECEIVED:

Supervision is received from theAssistant Athletic Director for Sports Performance / Head Strength and Conditioning Coach

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

  • Bachelor's degree in Exercise Science, Kinesiology, Nutrition, or similar field.
  • Currently admitted to a graduate program or eligible and intending to apply upon accepting the offer.
  • CSCS and/or SCCC Certified.
  • Collegiate strength and conditioning graduate assistantship/internship experience.
  • Knowledge and understanding of NCAA rules and regulations.
  • Exceptional leadership skills.
  • Excellent oral and written communication and interpersonal skills.
  • Proven ability to work effectively in a diverse community.
  • Ability to handle andmaintainconfidential information.
  • Ability to perform the essential functions of the position with or withoutaccommodation.
  • Willingness to travel, includingnights and weekends, with programs as requested.
  • Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite and ability to learn new software quickly.
  • Experience and ability to positively interact with all members of the campus community
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:
  • CPR, AED, and First Aid Certified.
  • Three years of collegiate experience


TUITION ELIGIBILITY & TAX IMPLICATIONS:

Graduate Assistantships include a tuition and fee waiver of up to12 credit hours per semester(maximum 30 per academic year), funded by the SVSU central budget.

Full-time enrollment (9 credits or more) isrequiredin the Fall and Winter semesters, with minimal exceptions available.Less than full-time enrollment is allowed in the final semester for completion or for programs that do not offer full-time enrollment

All tuition/fee waivers will be reportable as taxable income per IRS regulations. Employees should consult a tax advisor for guidance.

WORKING CONDITIONS:

  • All work associated with this role must be performed within the state of Michigan.
  • Work is performed in a coaching, athletic, competitive indoor/outdoorenvironment.
  • Weeknightsand weekends,including travel,willberequired.

The above reflects the general details considered necessary to describe the essential functions of the job. It shall not be construed as an exhaustive statement of duties, responsibilities, or requirements that may be inherent in the job. It is not intended to limit or in any way modify the right of any supervisor to assign, direct, and control the work of employees under his/her supervision. The use of a particular expression or illustration describing duties shall not be held to exclude other duties not mentioned that are of similar kind or level of difficulty.

About SVSU:

Saginaw Valley State University is a comprehensive university with more than 100 programs of study for its roughly 7,000 students. Located on a suburban campus in Michigan's Great Lakes Bay Region, SVSU is committed to a supportive and empowering environment for students, faculty and staff. SVSU was recognized as a "Great College to Work For" for 9 consecutive years (2016-2024).
SVSU emphasizes undergraduate teaching and learning, and community-based research. SVSU earned the Community Engagement classification from the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching, a distinction achieved by only 7 percent of U.S. colleges and universities. By their senior year, 84 percent of students have engaged with community employers and agencies in internships, field placements or some other component of their academic preparation.
SVSU is establishing itself as a leader in STEAM education for the Great Lakes Bay Region, partnering with businesses, foundations and school districts to improve students' performance in math, science and the arts at the middle school, high school and university levels. SVSU is constructing the first university research facility on Lake Huron to improve public health and the economy in the Saginaw Bay watershed.
More than 70 percent of SVSU freshmen live on campus in student housing that has been rated No. 1 among public universities in the U.S. (2018-2025). SVSU fields 20 varsity sports at the NCAA Division II level. The average class size is 23 students. For more information, please visit our website,http://www.svsu.edu.