What are the responsibilities and job description for the Graduate Assistant Athletic Performance position at Rockhurst University?
Graduate Assistant – Sports Performance / Athletics
Location: Rockhurst University – Kansas City, MO
Department: Athletics / Sports Performance
Position Type: Graduate Assistantship
Position Overview
Rockhurst University, a premier Jesuit institution in Kansas City, is seeking an energetic, driven, and qualified individual for the position of Graduate Assistant (GA) for Sports Performance / Athletics. This position is designed to provide a high-level, hands-on professional learning experience in a competitive NCAA Division II environment while completing a master’s degree.
The successful candidate will assist the Sports Performance staff in developing, implementing, and overseeing strength, conditioning, and performance programs for various Hawk athletic teams.
Compensation & Benefits Package
This graduate assistantship offers a premier compensation package designed to fully cover your education and living expenses:
- 100% Tuition Waived: Full tuition waiver for eligible Rockhurst University graduate programs for the duration of the assistantship.
- Room and Board Covered: Complimentary on-campus housing and a university meal plan provided.
- Professional Development: Opportunities for continuing education, certification preparation, and networking within NCAA Division II athletics.
Key Responsibilities
- Program Design & Delivery: Assist in designing and implementing comprehensive, sport-specific strength and conditioning programs.
- Team Instruction: Coach proper exercise technique, safety protocols, and performance metrics during team lifting and conditioning sessions.
- Facility Management: Assist with the daily operation, scheduling, maintenance, and cleanliness of the varsity weight room and sports performance facilities.
- Testing & Data Evaluation: Conduct routine athletic performance testing, track student-athlete progress, and report data to head coaches and medical staff.
- Sports Medicine Collaboration: Work closely with the Athletic Training staff to design modification and rehabilitation programs for injured student-athletes.
Required Qualifications
- Academic: Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution. Must gain full admission into an eligible Rockhurst University graduate program.
- Certifications: CPR/AED/First Aid certification required. Possession of or active progress toward a professional certification (e.g., NSCA-CSCS or CSCCa-SCCC).
- Experience: Previous experience lifting/training in a collegiate athletic setting (as a student-athlete, intern, or student assistant).
- Skills: Strong communication skills, leadership ability, strict adherence to NCAA Division II rules, and a commitment to the holistic development of student-athletes in alignment with Jesuit values.
Application Instructions
Interested candidates should submit a single PDF containing a cover letter, resume, and three professional references directly via email to:
Ben Arnold
Director of Athletic Performance
Email: benjamin.arnold@rockhurst.edu
Note: Employment is contingent upon successful completion of a background check and official acceptance into a Rockhurst University graduate program.
Rockhurst University is an Equal Opportunity Employer and values diversity in its faculty, staff, and student body.