Idaho State University is seeking applications for a Head Men's and Women's Cross Country Coach / Assistant Track and Field Coach (Distance) beginning in July for the 2026-2027 season. This is a full-time position that will report to the Director of Track and Field Cross Country and oversee all aspects of the men's and women's cross-country programs while assisting in the administration and coaching of middle-distance and distance events within the Track and Field Program.

This position is not eligible for new visa sponsorship at this time. Candidates who already hold valid U.S. work authorization may be considered.

Key Responsibilities

-Direct and manage all aspects of the Men's and Women's Cross Country Programs. -Assist in all Track and Field Cross Country Program decisions and season operations as assigned by the Director of Track and Field Cross Country. These may span a variety of tasks such as recommendations for competition schedules, meet entries, event management, scheduling, supervision of program personnel, budget management, campus visits, student-athlete academic success, mentoring, team travel, equipment and gear, meal planning, technical and video logistics, youth meets and camps, nutrition, facility upkeep, fundraising, alumni relations, and media/marketing. -Demonstrate excellent teaching and coaching competencies with regard to sport skill instruction, training and practice sessions, organization, motivation, and tactical strategies while assisting in designing competitive schedules that maximize student-athlete development for the cross-country team and middle-distance and distance athletes. Schedule, plan, and execute pre-season, post-season, and in-season practices and competitions. Log all CARA activities. -Collaborate with strength and conditioning staff on the implementation of weight training and performance development programs for student-athletes. -Recruit student-athletes with high academic achievement and athletic potential who can be competitive in the Big Sky Conference and continue to develop those athletes academically, athletically, and personally. -Exhibit leadership and a commitment to excellence in professional standards and ethical behavior. Make professional decisions with adherence to NCAA, Big Sky Conference, University, and Department rules, regulations, and codes of conduct. -Provide development and support in the mental, social, emotional, and overall welfare of student-athletes. -Demonstrate excellent communication skills in writing, speaking, and listening and maintain positive collaborative working relationships with athletes, colleagues, university support personnel, parents, alumni, and community stakeholders. -Identify strengths and areas for improvement within the program and analyze strengths and weaknesses of opponents. Develop strategies and collaborate on solutions to limitations and challenges. -Assist the Director in creating an positive team and staff culture where all individuals are able to contribute, develop, and support each other in responsibilities and duties. -Continually learn, grow, and participate in educational conferences, workshops, and meetings to increase professional skills and knowledge. -Work is done in the office and at athletic facilities and may often include early mornings, evenings, holidays, weekends, and overnight travel.

Minimum Qualifications

-Bachelor's Degree.
-Coaching philosophy consistent and/or complementary to that of the existing program.
-Desire and ability to work collaboratively with others.
-Demonstrated successful coaching experience in Cross Country and/or Collegiate Track and Field distance events.
-Understanding of NCAA rules and regulations and commitment to adherence.
-Organizational and administrative skills, excellent verbal and written communication skills, and the ability to build strong relationships internally and externally.
-Satisfactory driving record and ability to operate university vehicles.
-Applicants must pass a criminal background check.
 
Preferred Qualifications

-Master's Degree.
-Three years of successful collegiate head coaching experience preferred; with NCAA Division I experience strongly preferred.
-Demonstrated success recruiting and developing conference-level and national-level distance runners.
-USTFCCCA and/or USATF Coaching Education Certifications.
-Experience coordinating camps, clinics, fundraising initiatives, and alumni engagement activities.

Additional Information
You must submit your CV/resume, cover letter, and list of three (3) professional references, including current contact information. This position will remain open until it is filled; however, priority consideration will be given to applications received on or before June 29, 2026.

About Idaho State University

OVERVIEW: Idaho State University has grown to be the state's designated lead institution in health professions. Idaho State attracts students from around the world and is leading the way in cutting edge research and innovative solutions in the areas of energy, health professions, nuclear research, teaching, humanities, engineering, performing and visual arts, technology, biological sciences pharmacy and business. Idaho State University combines exceptional academics amidst the grand natural beauty of the West. ISU is at the heart of an outdoor lover’s paradise and a short drive to some of the America’s greatest natural wonders and exciting outdoor recreation opportunities. 12,805 students, 250 educational programs The mission of the ISU Cross Country Track & Field Program is the development and advancement of our team members as individuals, students and athletes. We seek out and bring student-athletes to the campus of Idaho State University, provide them with meaningful opportunities, demonstrate that we believe in each other, support them in their learning and growth, and empower them to positively impact their own lives and the lives of others. FACILITIES: · Centennial Cr...oss Country Course is located just east of campus. Pocatello has an extensive trail system that the team also uses for training. · Holt Arena Hosts the Indoor track and field facility from November through February. The track features a 6 lane 200 meter banked oval and a 6 lane 60-meter straightaway with room for high jump, throws, and pole vault inside the oval and the long jump and triple jump next to the straightaway. Additional tarps and equipment allow for training for outdoor throwing events during the winter season. Idaho State hosts the Simplot Games, one of the nation’s largest high school indoor meets with 2,200 athletes from all across the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. Holt underwent a 14-million-dollar renovation and is scheduled to be completed in the fall of 2023. ·Davis Field Outdoor Track and Field is Located at Davis Field on lower campus. Davis Field is a shared facility between the track and field and cross-country teams and the women’s soccer team. Originally constructed in 1936. In the Spring of 2020 the facility underwent a seven-million-dollar renovation with upgrades for both soccer and track and field. The track has 8 lanes with colored exchange zones for relays, and features two discus rings, two javelin runways, two high jump aprons, two long and triple jump runways, and two pole vault runways. The multiple runways and throwing rings provide versatility both during practice and meets to provide the best conditions for optimal performance. ·Bartz FieldBartz Field is also on campus and hosts the Hammer Cage and throwing ring which has additional cement training areas and a storage facility.

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