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Sports Development Officer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Doane University

Athletics Development Officer

Crete, NE · On-site

$57K - $60K/yr

... sports into a rewarding fundraising career at Doane University as our Athletics Development Officer. In this role, you have the opportunity to support the Advancement and Athletics offices in ...

Encircle

Chief Development Officer

Salt Lake City, UT · On-site

$120K - $150K/yr

Salt Lake City has a growing arts, food, sports, and cultural scene, an international airport ... Job Summary Encircle is seeking an experienced, strategic, and hands-on Chief Development Officer ...

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Encircle

Chief Development Officer

Salt Lake City, UT · On-site

Salt Lake City has a growing arts, food, sports, and cultural scene, an international airport ... Job Summary Encircle is seeking an experienced, strategic, and hands-on Chief Development Officer ...

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Sports Development Officer information

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$39K

$74.4K

$119K

How much do sports development officer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for sports development officer in the United States is $74,448.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $58,500.00 and $84,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a sports development officer?

Sports Development Officers are professionals who work to promote participation in sports and physical activity within communities, schools, or organizations. They design, implement, and manage programs and initiatives aimed at increasing access to sports, improving skill levels, and encouraging long-term engagement in physical activity. Their role often involves working with local authorities, sports clubs, and other stakeholders to secure funding, organize events, and ensure inclusivity. Sports Development Officers also monitor the effectiveness of their programs, provide guidance to coaches and volunteers, and help identify talent for further development.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a sports development officer?

To thrive as a Sports Development Officer, you need a strong background in sports management, coaching, and program development, often supported by a relevant degree or sports-related qualifications. Familiarity with sports management software, safeguarding certifications, and knowledge of funding application processes are commonly required. Excellent communication, leadership, and organizational skills help build partnerships and motivate diverse groups. These abilities are crucial for successfully promoting sports participation, managing projects, and achieving community development goals.

What challenges do sports development officers face when promoting community participation in sports programs?

Sports Development Officers often encounter challenges such as limited resources, varying levels of community engagement, and addressing barriers to participation like accessibility and inclusivity. Building trust and partnerships with local organizations, schools, and community leaders is essential to overcome these obstacles. Flexibility, strong communication skills, and creative problem-solving are key in adapting programs to meet the diverse needs of communities and ensuring that sports initiatives are sustainable and effective.

What is the difference between Sports Development Officer vs Sports Coach?

AspectSports Development OfficerSports Coach
Primary FocusDeveloping sports programs, increasing participation, community engagementTraining athletes, improving skills, team management
Required CredentialsRelevant sports or community development certifications, degree often preferredCoaching certifications, sports-specific qualifications
Work EnvironmentCommunity centers, sports clubs, local governmentSports fields, gyms, training facilities
Employer & Industry UsageLocal authorities, sports organizations, educational institutionsSports clubs, schools, private coaching companies

While both roles involve sports, a Sports Development Officer focuses on creating programs and increasing participation at the community level, whereas a Sports Coach concentrates on training athletes and improving their performance. The roles often overlap but serve different objectives within the sports industry.

More about Sports Development Officer jobs

What states have the most Sports Development Officer jobs?

States with the most job openings for Sports Development Officer jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Sports Development Officer jobs?

For Sports Development Officer jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Sports Development Officer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Sports Development Officer job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $74,448 per year, or $35.8 per hour.

Youth Sports Development Director

Phoenix, AZ • On-site

MVP360 Management
See more jobs at MVP360 Managementexternal

Contractor

Posted 23 days ago

Job description

About MVP360
At MVP360 Sports & Entertainment Management, we thrive in a dynamic world, fostering a culture of creativity and collaboration. From vision to victory, we design and deliver unforgettable sporting and entertainment events. Join us in inspiring the next generation through sports and innovation!
NOT A FULL TIME JOB: We are looking for an self-employed 1099, contractor to assist with developing our youth sports programs in the Phoenix, AZ area. Specifically within the parks and recreation center system.
Job Title: Youth Sports Development Director
Sports & Activities
You'll work in developing a variety of sports and programs, across 30 recreational centers. Preference for candidates who are familiar with and can manage multiple sports: Softball, Basketball, Lacrosse, Field Hockey, Floor Hockey, Tennis, Pickleball, Kickball, Volleyball, Flag Football, Baseball, and STEAM Programs, and more.
Key Responsibilities
  • Plan, coordinate, and establish engaging recreational sports events and programs at designated locations through the City of Phoenix, AZ
  • Recruit, and identify enthusiastic staff for camps, clinics, and leagues. Assist with interviews and vetting process.
  • Program Planning and Implementation: Assessing the needs of the population, and then planning, and staffing a variety of sports leagues, fitness classes, and recreational events.
  • Leadership and Instruction: Leading and facilitating group activities, explaining mission, vision, demonstrating techniques, and coaching participants of various ages and skill levels.
  • Safety and Risk Management: Ensuring a safe environment by conducting site visits, explaining and enforcing safety procedures and rules, managing equipment inventory and maintenance, and acquiring basic first aid knowledge.
  • Administration and Operations: Performing administrative duties such as registering participants, tracking participation data, and preparing reports.
  • Community Engagement: Building positive relationships with Recreation Center Directors, participants, parents, staff, and external community organizations to foster interest and support for programs.
  • Drive sports marketing and branding initiatives to elevate MVP360's presence.
  • Collaborate with the CEO and Director of Operations on additional projects as needed.

Requirements
Qualifications
  • Based in the Phoenix, AZ area.
  • 3+ years of experience in youth sports, recreation programming, or community sports operations.
  • Educational background in sports management, recreation, or a related field.
  • Proficiency with email, social media, related communication and promotion tools, and reporting spreadsheets.
  • Extensive sport-specific knowledge or general athletics experience; multi-sport expertise preferred.
  • Experience with program planning, event operations, and sports marketing execution.
  • Experience working with recreation center directors.
  • Valid driver's license and reliable transportation.
  • Has a phone and laptop for contractor work.
  • Eligible to work in the United States.
  • Available to work afternoons, evenings, and weekends during the school year.
  • Confident in leading coaches, sports activities and managing projects with creativity and problem-solving skills.
  • Hardworking, dedicated, and thrives in a fast-paced indoor/outdoor environment.

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