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Sports Development Officer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

This position is responsible for program development, staff and volunteer leadership, budgeting ... Aquatics * Assist CEO in recruiting, hiring, schedule training, supervising, and evaluating aquatic ...

$240K - $290K/yr

Chief Executive Officer Classification: Exempt Pullman Regional Hospital is expanding our sports ... Contribute to program development and quality improvement initiatives. Qualifications * MD or DO ...

... Sports, Media & Entertainment Officer is responsible for cultivation, analysis, renewal and ... Lead and manage all development, growth, stewardship, support and renewal activities related to ...

The Role WRSTBND is seeking a driven, detail oriented Director of Business Development Sports to ... This position reports to our CEO. Location is flexible. What Will You Do? * Drive revenue growth by ...

$50K/yr

... sport alumni events/weekend to lead all communication and execution of those events * Develop standardized processes to ensure efficiency and success of events * Partner with development officers to ...

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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 Jun 13, 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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Sports Development Officer, and why are they important?

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 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.

What are some common challenges faced by Sports Development Officers 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 are Sports Development Officers?

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.
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:
Sports Director

Sports Director

YMCA

Brewton, AL • On-site

Full-time

Posted 13 days ago


YMCA rating

6.1

Company rating: 6.1 out of 10

Based on 1,977 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

484th of 682 rated non-profit organizations


Job description

Love youth sports? Turn it into a career. Join the YMCA as our full-time Sports Director.
Job Description
The Sports Director provides leadership and oversight for all YMCA sports and recreational programs at the Brewton Area YMCA. This position is responsible for program development, staff and volunteer leadership, budgeting, scheduling, and risk
management while ensuring high-quality programs that support the YMCA mission of youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility.
Qualifications
Education & Experience
  • Bachelor's degree in Sports Management, Recreation, Physical Education, or a related field preferred.
  • 3 years of experience in sports program administration, recreation management, or related work preferred.
  • Supervisory or leadership experience preferred.

Certifications & Skills
  • CPR/AED for the Professional Rescuer and First Aid (required within a specified timeframe).
  • Strong leadership, organizational, and interpersonal skills.
  • Ability to work effectively with diverse populations, including youth, teens, adults, and volunteers.
  • Budget management and administrative proficiency.
  • Commitment to the YMCA mission and core values.

Physical Requirements
  • Ability to stand, walk, and move throughout indoor and outdoor sports facilities.
  • Ability to lift, move, and set up sports equipment.
  • Ability to respond quickly to emergencies and provide on-site support.
  • Willingness to use motorized equipment, such as mowers, side-by-sides, tractors and similar machinery.

Work Environment & Schedule
  • Indoor gymnasiums, outdoor fields, and community facilities.
  • Exposure to varying temperatures and weather conditions for outdoor programs.
  • Work schedule includes evenings, weekends, and seasonal variations based on program needs.

Essential Functions
Key Responsibilities
Program Leadership & Development
  • Plan, implement, and evaluate youth, teen, and adult sports programs including leagues, clinics, camps, tournaments and special events.
  • Ensure programs are developmentally appropriate, inclusive, and aligned with YMCA standards and community needs.
  • Develop program schedules, curricula, and seasonal offerings.
  • Monitor participation, program outcomes, and member satisfaction.
  • Seek opportunities to grow and expand programs for greater community impact.

Staff & Volunteer Leadership
  • Recruit, hire, train, supervise, and evaluate sports staff, coaches, officials, and volunteers.
  • Provide ongoing leadership, coaching, and performance feedback.
  • Schedule staff and volunteers to ensure adequate program coverage.
  • Lead staff meetings, trainings, and coach orientations.

Safety, Risk Management & Compliance
  • Ensure compliance with YMCA policies, risk management standards, and applicable state and local regulations.
  • Implement and enforce safety procedures, emergency action plans, and incident reporting protocols.
  • Maintain required certifications and ensure staff and volunteers meet training requirements.

Budget, Administration & Operations
  • Develop and manage the sports department budget, including program fees, expenses, and financial goals.
  • Oversee registrations, recordkeeping, equipment inventory, and reporting.
  • Oversee fundraising for youth sports sponsorship program.
    Promote all programs to ensure great turnout for participation.
  • Coordinate facility, gym, and field usage in collaboration with other departments.
  • Order, maintain, and replace sports equipment and supplies as needed.

Aquatics
  • Assist CEO in recruiting, hiring, schedule training, supervising, and evaluating aquatic staff including Head Lifeguards, Lifeguards, and Swim Instructors.
  • Plan, implement, and evaluate aquatic programs including swim lessons, water fitness, and recreational swim.
  • Oversee emergency action plans, incident reporting, and safety drills.
  • Maintain required certifications for self and staff.

Member Experience & Community Engagement
  • Provide a welcoming, inclusive, and positive experience for participants, families, and members.
  • Address member concerns and feedback in a professional and timely manner.
  • Build relationships with schools, community organizations, and partners to promote YMCA sports programs.
  • Represent the YMCA at community events, meetings, and outreach activities.

Required Certifications
Education & Experience
  • Bachelor's degree in Sports Management, Recreation, Physical Education, or a related field preferred.
  • 3 years of experience in sports program administration, recreation management, or related work preferred.
  • Supervisory or leadership experience preferred.

  • Certifications & Skills
    • CPR/AED for the Professional Rescuer and First Aid (required within a specified timeframe).
    • Strong leadership, organizational, and interpersonal skills.

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