Careers at Lehigh

Lehigh University's NCAA Division I Athletics program is looking for a skilled and committed Assistant Coach to join the Men's & Women's Cross Country and Track & Field staff. If you bring a sharp coaching eye, a genuine investment in student-athlete growth, and the drive to compete at the highest level of collegiate sport, this is a role worth your attention. This position has a unique dual responsibility of serving as the primary assistant coach for the cross country, middle and distance programs while also assisting with the operational planning and execution of signature events such as the Paul Short Run, NCAA Regional Championships, and other cross country and track & field competitions hosted by Lehigh University. The position requires exceptional organizational, logistical, and event management skills in addition to high-level coaching and recruiting expertise.

Position Number: S82970

This position is a Grade: 6 - 40 with an approximate salary range of $28,670-$34,410 and is subject to change based on experience, skills and qualifications.

Key Accountabilities

• Drive student-athlete success by mentoring individuals in academic, athletic, and personal growth, while fostering an inclusive team culture focused on integrity, mental wellness, leadership, and retention.
• Design and execute individualized, long-term training plans, deliver technical instruction and race strategy, and conduct daily practice sessions to maximize performance across cross country, indoor, and outdoor track & field seasons.
• Analyze athlete data to track progress, coordinate with high-performance support staff (strength, nutrition, sports medicine, and psychology), and manage on-site coaching during team travel and competitions.
• Identify, evaluate, and recruit high-caliber student-athletes through competitions, campus visits, video analysis, and recruiting databases to meet the specific event needs of the cross country and track & field programs.
• Build strong, trust-based relationships with prospective student-athletes, families, and coaches while passionately promoting Lehigh University’s academic excellence, athletic tradition, and overall student-athlete experience.
• Execute strategic recruiting plans focused on diversity, enrollment, and retention, while managing all recruiting workflows, correspondence, campus visit logistics, and compliance with admissions and financial aid staff.
• Assist with budgeting, scheduling, equipment management, and team travel logistics for the cross country and distance programs, ensuring full compliance with NCAA, Patriot League, and University policies.
• Co-lead the planning, logistics, and execution of the premier Paul Short Run and other hosted home meets, collaborating with external vendors and campus partners to oversee timing, facility setup, staffing, and race operations.
• Work alongside athletic administration, sports medicine, marketing, and campus public safety to support overall program goals, complete seasonal administrative duties (August 1–May 30), and participate in institutional initiatives.
• Serve as a positive brand ambassador by collaborating with Athletics Advancement and Communications to drive alumni engagement, fundraising, camps, community outreach, and the promotion of the Paul Short Run and team accomplishments.
• Drive sustained athletic and academic success across Patriot League and NCAA competitions while fostering student-athlete character, personal growth, retention, and graduation.
• Successfully execute program operations and lead the planning and management of home meets, including premier national events like the Paul Short Run and NCAA Regional Championships, in full compliance with NCAA and conference regulations.
• Identify and recruit elite prospective student-athletes while actively cultivating strong relationships with alumni, donors, parents, and community members to enhance the national reputation of Lehigh Athletics.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's Degree in a related field; Master's Degree preferred
• One to three years of work related experience
• Experience as a student athlete
• Collegiate coaching and/or competitive experience in cross country or track & field with an emphasis on middle and distance events
• Demonstrated knowledge of NCAA recruiting and compliance regulations
• Strong organizational, communication, interpersonal, and leadership skills
• Commitment to supporting academic achievement and holistic student-athlete development
• Ability to manage multiple priorities while meeting critical deadlines
• Ability to fulfill the responsibilities of a full-time 10-month appointment operating from August 1 through May 30, with flexibility to work evenings, weekends, holidays, and extensive travel during the competitive season
• Valid driver's license and ability to satisfy University driver requirements
• Previous NCAA Division I coaching experience preferred
• Proven experience in collegiate distance coaching, large-scale cross country event management, and athletic program fundraising/alumni engagement

Why Lehigh

Lehigh University sits at the intersection of rigorous academic tradition and genuine athletic ambition. As part of the Athletics staff, you'll work within a department that takes the student-athlete experience seriously. Your work here shapes not just athletic results, but the character and trajectory of the individuals you coach. Lehigh University offers a comprehensive and family friendly benefits package which includes but is not limited to Health Care, Retirement and Educational benefits. 

Lehigh University is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate. We are committed to a culturally and intellectually diverse community and we seek qualified candidates to contribute to the university’s mission. 

Persons with disabilities who anticipate needing an accommodation for any part of the interview or hiring process may contact Lehigh's Accommodations Specialist.

Special Considerations

• This position is responsible for driving as a routine function, therefore a valid Driver’s License and a good driving record is required.
• This position has direct contact with minors, therefore a background check is required. 
• This position has off the months of June and July

Successful completion of standard background checks including but not limited to: social security verification, education verification, national criminal background checks, motor vehicle checks, PATCH, FBI fingerprinting, Child Abuse Clearance and credit history based upon the requirements of the position.

Only complete applications will be considered therefore please complete the application in its entirety.  Once the posting is removed from the website applications may no longer be allowed to be completed.