Mt. Mercy University is excited to announce the launch of our inaugural football program and is seeking a dynamic and visionary Head Coach to lead this exciting new initiative to commence fall 2026. This is a unique opportunity to build a program from the ground up, instilling a culture of excellence both on and off the field. Expected start date is December 1, 2024
Key Responsibilities Include:
Program Development: Create and implement a comprehensive strategy for building a successful football program, including recruiting, training, and game preparation.
Leadership and Supervision: Provide direct supervision and mentorship to assistant coaches, ensuring alignment with the program’s vision and objectives.
Recruitment: Identify and recruit talented student-athletes who embody the university's values and contribute to a positive team culture.
Coaching: Develop and execute practice plans, game strategies, and player development programs that emphasize skill improvement and teamwork.
Campus Engagement: Create engagement activities with faculty, staff and community members for student athletes that lead to personal development, leadership development and enhance the overall college experience.
Community Engagement: Foster relationships with local schools, alumni, and community organizations to build support for the program.
Administration: Collaborate with athletic department staff to manage budgets, scheduling, and compliance with NAIA regulations.
Culture Building: Establish a positive and inclusive team culture that promotes academic achievement, personal growth, and athletic excellence.
Qualifications:
Education: Bachelor’s degree required.
Coaching Experience: Significant coaching experience at the collegiate or high school level; head coaching experience preferred.
Recruiting: Experience recruiting at a collegiate level is preferred.
Leadership Skills: Strong leadership and motivational skills with the ability to inspire and connect with student-athletes.
Communication Skills: Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, capable of engaging effectively with various stakeholders.
Visionary Mindset: Ability to envision and articulate a plan for building a successful football program that aligns with the university’s mission.
Personal Growth: Be committed to a philosophy that emphasizes the health, welfare and academic success of student athletes, as well as the importance of good sportsmanship.
Compliance: Strong understanding of NAIA rules and regulations regarding recruiting and eligibility.
Benefits:
Competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package including health, dental, and vision insurance.
Retirement savings plan with employer match.
Tuition Remission.
Paid time off and holidays.
Access to campus amenities, cultural events, and recreational facilities.
Supportive and inclusive campus community committed to excellence in athletics and education.
Opportunity to make a significant impact on student-athletes' lives both athletically and academically.
The successful candidate must demonstrate a willingness to support Mount Mercy’s mission, which is a Catholic University providing student-focused education in the spirit of the Sisters of Mercy. In addition, Mount Mercy University will combine with St. Ambrose University in the summer of 2025 but maintaining separate athletic departments and teams. A commitment to sustain Mustang Athletics going forward is a must.
How to Apply:
Please submit a cover letter, salary requirements, resume, and contact information for three professional references. Application materials should be emailed as a Microsoft Word or Adobe.pdf attachment to: hr@mtmercy.edu with the subject line “Head Football Coach.” Paper application materials will not be accepted. Submissions will be accepted until the position is filled.
Questions, inquiries, or nominations regarding the position or the search process should be directed to Dr. Kurt Patberg, Vice President of Mammoth Sports Consulting at kurt.patberg@mammothconsulted.com.
Mount Mercy University is an equal opportunity employer and smoke-free campus.
Mount Mercy University welcomes those of different faiths and is committed to excellence in education and community service.
Mount Mercy University, located in beautiful Cedar Rapids, Iowa, offers students a fulfilling education, promising people of all backgrounds a solid preparation for a changing world. Our students come from around the globe, creating a vibrant, diverse, and welcoming campus community.