Assistant Football Coach, Defense and Strength and Conditioning Coordinator at Whitworth University – Spokane, Washington

The Assistant Coach will coach a defensive position group—either defensive line or defensive backs—based on experience and program needs. This individual will contribute to all facets of a thriving NCAA Division III football program, including practice planning, recruiting, in-game coaching, and key administrative duties. A significant part of this role includes coordinating the program’s Strength and Conditioning efforts. This includes designing and implementing off-season training plans, fostering motivation and team culture, and leading staff organization and oversight.

The ideal candidate will be deeply committed to mentoring student-athletes, fostering their athletic, academic, and spiritual growth, and working collaboratively with colleagues across campus to support Whitworth’s distinctive educational mission.

Application review will begin on April 21, 2025.
Defensive Coaching | 45%

• Be responsible for leading, instructing, developing players at this position group.
• Commit time, energy and thought into mentoring and investing in the lives of the student-athletes in our program.
• Coordinate and work with the defensive coordinator to design and implement effective schemes to facilitate defensive success.
• Assist in Recruiting quality student-athletes in cooperation with football staff and Admissions Office.
• Assist other position groups on the field and in meetings as assigned.
• Assist Head Coach in conducting the football program in compliance with all NCAA, State, Northwest Conference and Institutional rules and regulations.

Strength & Conditioning | 45%

• Coordinate the training of all our football players to maximize physical development.
• Design in-season and out of season and summer training programs.
• Support and enhance our football culture.
• Organize strength interns and the rest of the staff.

Additional Responsibilities | 10%

• Assist in all areas of the football program as assigned by the Head Coach and/or Athletics Director.
• Additional duties related to your role in the athletic department as assigned by the Head Coach and/or Athletics Director.
• Develop positive relationships with faculty, staff, students and alumni while interacting favorably with department personnel and university community.

• A bachelor's degree is required, and Whitworth considers candidates with a wide range of educational backgrounds. We value the skills and knowledge candidates bring to Whitworth, regardless of the paths they have taken to acquire them.
• 1-3 years of football coaching experience and track record of building positive relationships with athletes, parents, and fellow coaches, while cultivating a supportive and inclusive team environment.
• Experience and passion for cultivating student athletes' potential.
• A personal commitment to the Christian faith and to the integration of faith and learning.
• A commitment to the educational mission of Whitworth University as a comprehensive Christian liberal arts university affiliated with the Presbyterian church.

Core Competencies

• Ability and ethical understanding to adhere to all NCAA and NWC rules and regulations.
• Ability to identify and build relationships with recruits and families.
• Ability to support the head coach in program development, technique refinement, and team cohesion.
• Ability and leadership skills to effectively identify and resolve problems while maintaining confidentiality.
• Strong communication skills, adept at fostering positive relationships with student athletes, colleagues, and athletic stakeholders.
• Strong work ethic and high level of personal integrity.

Preferred Qualifications

• Participation in intercollegiate football.
• Previous coaching experience at the high school or collegiate level.
• Master's degree.

Licenses or Certifications

• Valid driver’s license and compliance with Whitworth’s campus vehicle policy.

Schedule
.92 FTE | 11 months | 40 hours per week

Whitworth University is a Christian liberal arts university. Our shared mission is to provide our diverse students with an education of mind and heart, equipping them to honor God, follow Christ, and serve humanity. We seek candidates who are willing to engage with the university’s mission and integrate their Christian faith into their work.

Interested candidates should submit a cover letter, resume, faith statement, and contact information for at least three professional references. A background check and sexual misconduct check will be required of the successful candidate. Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States at the time of hire and maintain valid work authorization throughout the duration of employment, including those on OPT. Whitworth University does not offer visa sponsorship for this position.