This role is structured as an assistant coach with primary responsibilities for leading distance and cross country training.

The position reports to the Director of Track and Field/Cross Country as a full-time, 12-month, benefits-eligible position.

The Cross Country and Distance Coach will play a vital role in advancing the mission and values of Prairie Fire Athletics by helping to build a competitive NCAA Division III program that develops student-athletes of character, fosters belonging and growth, and competes with purpose. This position contributes to a collaborative coaching staff focused on student-athlete development, academic success, and competitive excellence.

A proud member of the Midwest Conference (MWC) and NCAA Division III, Knox College is a vibrant community of scholar-teachers and students with a long-standing tradition of free inquiry, independent thought, and diverse perspectives. We are committed to providing an education that transforms lives through challenge, support, and discovery. Preparing students for meaningful lives and purposeful leadership.

At Knox, we seek challenge-seeking student-athletes, individuals who are eager to grow, compete, and contribute. Prairie Fire athletes embrace hard work, thrive in diverse environments, and lead with resilience. They represent more than 100 communities across the nation and globe, united by a shared commitment to self-improvement, academic success, and competitive excellence. With strong institutional support and an energized alumni base, Prairie Fire Athletics is positioned for continued growth and success.

Responsibilities

The Cross Country and Distance Coach is responsible for contributing to the success of the Knox College Cross Country and Track and Field programs, including but not limited to:

• Lead or assist in the development of a competitive and values-based Cross Country program aligned with the mission of Prairie Fire Athletics.
• Coach the distance events within the Track and Field program, designing and implementing training plans that support long-term student-athlete development.
• Recruit and retain student-athletes who demonstrate academic commitment, personal integrity, and competitive potential.
• Cultivate a team culture that values belonging, accountability, and continuous improvement.
• Plan, organize, and supervise practices, competitions, and team travel with attention to student-athlete development and safety.
• Collaborate across campus with partners in Athletics and Admissions to support enrollment and the overall student-athlete experience.
• Promote the program through alumni engagement, community outreach, and social media presence.
• Support departmental fundraising initiatives in partnership with the K Club and Athletics leadership.
• Ensure compliance with all institutional, Midwest Conference, and NCAA regulations.
• Model professionalism and mentorship through high standards of leadership, care, and communication.

This position supervises two full-time coaches. Additional responsibilities may be assigned based on the candidate’s strengths and may include teaching in the Sports Studies program or assisting with game operations.

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university
• Collegiate coaching experience in Cross Country, Track and Field, or both
• Demonstrated knowledge of distance training methodologies and athlete development
• Ability to design and implement effective training plans and competition strategies
• Valid driver's license
• Strong interpersonal, organizational, and written communication skills
• Ability to work independently while contributing to a collaborative coaching staff
• Appreciation for the values of a residential liberal arts education and commitment to supporting diverse student populations

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience coaching collegiate Cross Country or distance events in Track and Field
• Experience recruiting student-athletes at the collegiate level
• Experience with recruiting databases such as Front Rush or similar systems
• Demonstrated ability to contribute to program growth, alumni engagement, or fundraising
• Experience with social media promotion and program storytelling

Summary Pay Range: Compensation and benefits offered may vary depending on multiple individualized factors, job level, market location, job-related knowledge, skills, individual performance, and experience. Please note that pay is only one component of total compensation.

Benefits:

Health Insurance

Dental

Vision

FSA/ HSA/ FSA Dependent Care

Employer Paid Basic Life & LTD

Voluntary Life

Retirement Plan

Paid Time Off

Employee Assistance Program

Parental Leave

Notice of Non-Discrimination