Head Athletic Trainer

University of the Southwest - Hobbs, NM

Full-time

Hobbs, NM

Educational Services

About the position

The Head Athletic Trainer position at the University of the Southwest is responsible for the organization, development, and coordination of the athletic training program in alignment with the goals of a NAIA Division I intercollegiate athletic program. This role involves managing the health care of student-athletes, evaluating injuries, and coordinating emergency medical responses. The Head Athletic Trainer will develop rehabilitation programs, maintain medical records, and ensure compliance with NAIA requirements. This position reports directly to the Director of Intercollegiate Athletics.

Responsibilities

• Manage and supervise the health care of student-athletes for each of USW's sport teams
• Evaluate injuries and coordinate any emergency medical response when a student-athlete is seriously injured in practice or competition
• Utilize evidence-based techniques in the prevention, evaluation, treatment, and rehabilitation of athletic injuries
• Develop and implement the appropriate rehabilitation programs when injuries occur, ensuring the student-athlete is medically cleared for return to competition in a safe and timely manner
• Assist in the development of preventative conditioning program(s) within each sport to safely increase the maximum performance from each student-athlete while minimizing injuries
• Organize and maintain all student-athlete medical records for the required NAIA timeframe
• Organize and direct preseason physicals with physicians and coordinate medical clearance for all team activities
• Ensure all required student-athlete paperwork is completed and filed prior to any team workouts
• Act as a liaison between student-athletes, coaches, and team physicians regarding medical injuries or illness
• Maintain and document NATA certification requirements and New Mexico state license
• Direct, supervise, and mentor associate athletic trainers
• Develop and utilize yearly budgets to order or acquire needed supplies, equipment, repairs, travel, membership dues, and professional development
• Update and maintain EAPs as needed
• Communicate with fellow athletic trainers regarding student-athletes' medical needs

Requirements

• Master's Degree required in an appropriate field of study
• A minimum of 3 years of athletic training and/or sports medicine experience at the NCAA/NAIA intercollegiate level preferred
• NATA Certification in good standing, NM Athletic Trainers' License (or ability to acquire quickly), and current CPR and First Aid for Healthcare Workers are required
• Proficient computer skills are also highly preferred
• Thorough knowledge and understanding of NAIA-affiliated conference, departmental and University compliance rules and regulations
• Demonstrated commitment towards academic integrity and the graduation of the student-athlete
• Demonstrated commitment towards student-athlete welfare
• Demonstrated commitment towards fiscal responsibility
• Excellent organizational skills
• Ability to provide strong leadership and direction for assigned administrative area of responsibility
• Demonstrated ability to be a 'Team Player' within the Department of Athletics and the University
• Commitment to the overall Mission, Philosophy, and Goals of the Department of Athletics and the University