Strength and Conditioning Graduate Assistant

Strength and Conditioning Graduate Assistant at Aurora University brings student‑centered learning, equity, and a culture of collaboration to a diverse community of students, faculty, and staff.

Position Purpose

The Strength and Conditioning Graduate Assistant supports the Head Strength and Conditioning Coach in developing, implementing, and monitoring comprehensive training programs that enhance athletic performance, strength, speed, and injury resilience of student‑athletes. This role assists with daily weight‑room operations, supervises training sessions, maintains a safe and motivating training environment, and promotes proper technique and training discipline. The position collaborates closely with sport coaches, athletic trainers, and other support staff to ensure programs align with the overall goals of the athletic department and the individual needs of each team.

Core

Competencies

• Represents Aurora University positively with prospective, former, and current students, clients, suppliers, and the community.
• Interacts effectively with a diverse group of faculty, staff, students, and other customers of the service, learning and using operating practices of the department and Aurora University.
• Upholds the Mission Statement: empower students to achieve lasting personal and professional success through an inclusive, transformative learning community.
• Handles confidential information with tact and discretion, recognizing the confidential nature of university business.
• Supports learning through performance of essential job functions and performs other duties and functions as necessary or as assigned, including voluntary participation in university committees, activities, and events.

Essential Job Functions

Athlete Supervision

Instruction & Motivation

Monitoring & Assessment

Collaboration & Communication

Facility & Equipment Management

Record Keeping

Professional Development

Mentorship & Leadership

Compliance & Risk Management

Compliance & Risk Management

Program Implementation

• Assist in the development and delivery of sport‑specific strength and conditioning programs in coordination with the Head Strength and Conditioning Coach.
• Directly supervise training sessions to ensure proper technique, safety, and program adherence.
• Provide clear instruction and motivation to student‑athletes in strength training, speed/agility development, flexibility, and recovery protocols.
• Track athlete progress using performance metrics and modify programs based on assessment data, feedback, and training responses.
• Communicate effectively with sport coaches, athletic trainers, and medical staff to coordinate training with practice schedules, injuries, and return‑to‑play protocols.
• Maintain cleanliness, safety, and organization of the weight room and training equipment; report maintenance needs promptly.
• Maintain detailed records of athlete attendance, testing results, and training modifications.
• Stay current with trends in sports performance, strength and conditioning, and injury prevention through continuing education and certification upkeep.
• Serve as a positive role model for athletes and assist in mentoring interns or student workers involved in the strength and conditioning program.
• Ensure training practices align with institutional, conference, and national governing body guidelines, as well as health and safety standards.

Essential

Job Requirements
Education: Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent experience) required; candidates must be on track to complete the NSCA CSCS certification prior to the start date.
Experience: Minimum of one semester internship of relevant experience.
Skills:

• Knowledge of evidence‑based strength, speed, and conditioning principles.
• Ability to coach proper lifting techniques and movement mechanics.
• Experience working with multiple sports and training needs.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Excellent organization, time management, and attention to detail.
• Ability to foster a positive, high‑energy training environment.
• Proficiency with training software and performance tracking tools.
• Current CPR/AED certification.
• Understanding of NCAA Division III athletics.

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to work with a…