Startup Program Manager Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

ABOUT THE ROLE

Build and lead Maharishi International University (MIU)'s women's volleyball program from the ground up as our founding Head Coach. This is a unique opportunity to shape a collegiate volleyball program while pioneering the integration of Consciousness-Based Sports (CBS) methodology at the varsity level. As MIU pursues NAIA membership and establishes itself as a global leader in consciousness-based athletics, you'll serve as both architect and ambassador for a program that embodies competitive excellence, holistic athlete development, and "The Pioneer Way."

This startup environment offers significant creative freedom to design systems and establish culture, but also requires navigating limited infrastructure and evolving support structures. The ideal candidate is an entrepreneurial coach who thrives building something transformative from scratch, brings extensive recruiting networks and industry connections, and is genuinely excited to integrate CBS methodology into every aspect of the program.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• Demonstrated success coaching women's volleyball at the collegiate, club, or elite high school level
• Proven track record recruiting talented student-athletes with strong industry references
• Established relationships with high school coaches, club directors, and tournament organizers across multiple regions
• Deep understanding of volleyball tactics, training methodology, and player development
• Superior communication skills for recruiting, mentorship, and program representation
• Availability for irregular hours including evenings, weekends, and recruiting travel
• Ability to manage multiple priorities with limited support staff in a startup environment

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Collegiate head coaching or associate head coaching experience, particularly in startup or rebuilding programs
• Experience as a high school and collegiate volleyball athlete
• NAIA/NCAA compliance knowledge and understanding of eligibility requirements
• Extensive recruiting networks in high-participation regions (Texas, California, Florida, Midwest) or internationally
• Experience with or strong interest in mental training, mindfulness, or holistic performance methodologies
• Relevant coaching certifications (e.g., USA Volleyball, AVCA credentials)
• Comfort with digital platforms, social media, and modern recruiting technologies
• Prior experience launching programs or initiatives in resource-constrained environments

RESPONSIBILITIES

Program Building & Strategic Vision

• Design and implement a comprehensive program development plan including recruiting strategy, competitive philosophy, training methodology, and culture-building
• Establish program identity, values, and standards aligned with MIU's mission and the Pioneer framework
• Develop operational systems for roster management, scheduling, budget management, and program administration
• Serve as primary spokesperson and ambassador for women's volleyball to recruits, families, donors, and stakeholders

Recruitment & Talent Acquisition (Primary Emphasis)

• Develop and execute aggressive recruiting strategies targeting domestic and international student-athletes
• Leverage existing networks and build relationships with coaches, club directors, and recruiting service providers
• Attend tournaments, showcases, and recruiting events throughout the year (extensive travel required)
• Manage all recruiting communications with prospective student-athletes across multiple platforms
• Organize campus visits and create compelling recruiting materials showcasing MIU's unique CBS value proposition
• Build and maintain detailed recruiting databases tracking prospects, communications, and commitment timelines
• Collaborate with Admissions and Financial Aid to structure attractive scholarship packages within budget

Coaching & Player Development

• Design training programs developing technical, tactical, physical, and mental skills across the Four Levels of Performance (Spiritual, Emotional, Mental, Physical)
• Integrate CBS principles and Transcendental Meditation practice into daily training, emphasizing the "inside-out" approach to peak performance
• Lead all team training sessions with periodization strategies optimized for performance and athlete well-being
• Develop individualized player development plans and create game strategies and tactics
• Foster team culture grounded in Pioneer identity: connection to Self, emotional empowerment, complete approach to performance, and collective excellence
• Mentor student-athletes on academic success, personal development, and holistic well-being beyond volleyball

Team Operations & Game Management

• Schedule competitive matches and coordinate all logistics for practices, home competitions, and travel
• Develop game-day operations protocols for home matches including setup, officiating coordination, and medical coverage
• Manage team budget for equipment, travel, tournament fees, and operational costs
• Ensure full compliance with NAIA regulations, university policies, and Title IX requirements (training provided)
• Maintain accurate records of eligibility, academic progress, and compliance documentation

Consciousness-Based Sports Integration

• Participate in CBS training workshops to master the methodology and Four Levels of Performance framework
• Lead daily team meditation sessions and integrate consciousness-based principles into training and competition
• Create environments facilitating athletes' access to peak performance states ("zone" and "flow") through CBS techniques
• Collaborate with Athletic Director Rubén Sánchez and CBS leadership team on program-wide initiatives
• Model and teach the Pioneer Way as a living demonstration of CBS principles in athletic practice

COMPENSATION & BENEFITS

• Competitive salary commensurate with experience
• Full benefits package including health insurance and retirement plan
• On-campus housing option available
• Professional development funding for CBS training and coaching certifications
• Access to Transcendental Meditation instruction and MIU wellness resources

ABOUT MIU ATHLETICS

Maharishi International University is home to the MIU Pioneers, a growing varsity athletics program built on the principles of Consciousness-Based Sports (CBS). Located in Fairfield, Iowa, MIU offers a distinctive educational model — including block scheduling, Transcendental Meditation practice, and a deep commitment to holistic human development — that creates a unique environment for student-athlete growth.

MIU Athletics is actively pursuing NAIA membership and building a portfolio of competitive varsity programs. Coaches at MIU are not just technical instructors — they are pioneers in a new model of athletic development that integrates inner development with outer performance. Women's volleyball is a foundational sport in MIU's growth plan, and this role represents an extraordinary opportunity to lead from the beginning.

To apply, submit a cover letter, resume, and three professional references to MIU Athletics. Applications reviewed on a rolling basis.

MIU Athletics Website