Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Coaching – 30%
  • Coach student-athletes individually and in groups and demonstrate game techniques; position may manage a designated skill development area or group of positions, as assigned.
  • Plan coaching and practice sessions in accordance with NCAA and conference regulations.
  • Develop, recommend, and teach game strategy and position assignments.
• Academic Support – 25%
  • Provide an overall positive educational environment for student-athletes conducive to learning, athletic development, social growth, and prepare them for life beyond college.
  • In conjunction with the Student Athlete Academic Support Services (SAASS) department monitor academic progress and academic status of student-athletes, implementing corrective action plans through appropriate staff, if needed.
• Safety & Conduct – 15%
  • Monitor and maintain the discipline and conduct of student-athletes to support the image and reputation of the department and university.
  • Responsible for the development, safety and conduct of the student-athletes within specific sport program.
  • Have a thorough knowledge of NCAA, conference and institutional rules and conduct the program within the regulations.
• Administration – 10%
  • Assist in the administration of the entire sport program, as assigned; including, but not limited to daily practices, game planning and implementation, recruiting, equipment management and facilities scheduling.
• Department Support – 10%
  • Assist with departmental needs as requested.
  • Cash handling responsibilities – $5,000-$10,000 annually.
  • When practical under the circumstances, intercollegiate athletic staff are encouraged to voluntarily attend all athletic events to promote audience participation and support for NIU team efforts.
• Public Relations – 10%
  • Promote the university, athletic department and specific sport through community events, public speaking, fundraising and marketing.

Minimum Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s Degree.
• Minimum one (1) year teaching/coaching softball skills, game and training strategies plus teaching progressions.
• Demonstrated success in recruiting and retaining quality student-athletes, particularly at the regional level (Midwest) including knowledge of softball travel teams and high school programs.

Additional Requirements:

• Have a thorough knowledge of NCAA, conference and institutional rules and conduct the program within the regulations. As a staff member within the Department of Intercollegiate Athletics, you are responsible for knowledge of and compliance with National Collegiate Athletics Association (NCAA) regulations, both those general in nature and those which apply directly to your position’s responsibilities.
• Strict adherence to all applicable governing policies, procedures, and regulations of the NCAA is required and is a condition of your employment.
• Ability to empower, communicate with and relate well to the female student-athlete.
• Ability to effectively communicate through oral, written, and electronic forms.
• Physical demands/requirements: Standing, sitting, walking, running, lifting up to 50 lbs.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Master’s degree.
• Minimum three (3) academic years coaching experience at the collegiate level.
• Successful competitive or coaching experience in softball at the Division I level.
• Former student-athlete at the collegiate level.

About Northern Illinois University

Chartered in 1895, NIU is a comprehensive teaching and research institution with a student enrollment of approximately 17,000. Located in one of the most dynamic regions of the country, DeKalb is 65 miles west of Chicago, Illinois. NIU is included in the Doctoral/Research Universities-Extensive category of the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching and is a member of the National Association of State Universities and Land-Grant Colleges. NIU has a diverse student population with 735 international students representing 118 nations. Approximately 3,500 students live on campus in residence halls and apartments. Northern Illinois University is an equal opportunity institution and does not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, age, marital status, national origin, disability, or status as a disabled or Vietnam-era veteran. The Constitution and Bylaws of Northern Illinois University afford equal treatment regardless of political views or affiliation, and sexual orientation. NIU recognizes Dual Career issues.

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