Head Athletic Trainer

Hope International University

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Position Information

Reports to: Director of Athletics

Pay: $70,000 - $80,000

Position Summary

The Head Athletic Trainer is responsible for the leadership, coordination, and delivery of comprehensive sports medicine services for all Hope International University (HIU) student-athletes. This role oversees injury prevention, evaluation, treatment, rehabilitation, and return-to-play protocols while ensuring the highest standards of care, safety, and compliance with NAIA, GSAC, and institutional guidelines. The Head Athletic Trainer supervises the athletic training staff, manages daily sports medicine operations, and collaborates closely with coaches, the athletic director, and team physicians to support the health and performance of all HIU athletic programs.

Duties & Responsibilities

· Sports Medicine Leadership

• Provide direct athletic training services for student-athletes, including injury assessment, treatment, taping, bracing, and rehabilitation.
• Develop, implement, and maintain evidence-based injury prevention programs.
• Oversee emergency action plans (EAPs) for all HIU athletic facilities and ensure they are updated and understood by all coaches and staff.
• Coordinate post-injury return-to-play decisions in collaboration with team physicians and the Director of Athletics.

· Administrative & Compliance

• Manage all athletic training operations, including scheduling coverage for practices, games, and team travel.
• Oversee and maintain accurate medical records using approved EMR systems.
• Ensure compliance with NAIA, GSAC, federal, and state regulations (HIPAA, OSHA, concussion laws, etc.).
• Develop and maintain the athletic training budget, including medical supplies, equipment, and contracts.
• Coordinate pre-participation physicals, medical clearances, and insurance documentation for all student-athletes.

· Staff Supervision & Development

• Recruit, hire, train, and supervise assistant/associate athletic trainers, interns, and student workers.
• Provide ongoing professional development and ensure staff certifications (CPR/AED, BOC, etc.) remain current.
• Evaluate staff performance and promote a collaborative, athlete-centered work environment.

· Collaboration & Communication

• Serve as the primary liaison between the Sports Medicine Department and the Director of Athletics.
• Work closely with coaches on practice planning, athlete readiness, and injury risk assessment.
• Communicate regularly with student-athletes regarding medical care, rehabilitation plans, and injury timelines.
• Maintain strong relationships with team physicians, orthopedic specialists, physical therapists, and outside medical providers.

· Risk Management & Facility Oversight

• Maintain cleanliness, organization, and safety standards in all athletic training room spaces.
• Ensure all medical equipment (AEDs, modalities, emergency supplies) is maintained and functional.
• Review and update institutional sports medicine policies, including concussion, hydration, and heat-illness protocols.

Employment Standards

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in athletic training or related field.
• BOC (Board of Certification for Athletic Trainers) certification.
• Eligible for (or current) California Athletic Training certification.
• Current CPR/AED and First Aid certification.
• Minimum 3 years of collegiate athletic training experience.

Preferred

• Master’s degree in athletic training, Exercise Science, or related field.
• Experience supervising staff in collegiate athletics setting.
• Knowledge of NAIA/GSAC regulations.
• Strong background in rehabilitation programming, emergency care, and evidence-based sports medicine practices.

Knowledge and Skills

• Knowledge of athletic injuries, rehabilitation techniques, assessment, and emergency care.
• Familiarity with basic pharmacology and athlete counseling.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
• Ability to maintain accurate medical records and documentation.
• Basic computer skills and ability to manage budgets.
• Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment.
• A vibrant and authentic Christian faith and worldview consistent with the University’s mission and values are required.

Mental Demands

• Ability to remain positive in stressful situations.
• Strong interpersonal skills and ability to communicate clearly with staff and athletes.
• Confidence in decision-making and flexibility in a dynamic environment. Visual Demands
• Regular computer use and ability to recognize and assess athletic injuries. Physical Demands:
• Ability to lift, grasp, stoop, and carry up to 50 pounds. Flexibility to work in varied settings and environments daily.

Work Environment

• Busy, fast-paced, team-oriented environment. Extensive contact with students, faculty, and staff, both in person and via electronic communication.

Character

Must demonstrate Christian character and be actively involved in a local church. Note: This position description is intended to outline the general nature and level of work performed. It is not an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, or skills required. Additional duties may be assigned

Type: Full Time

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Church / Organization Information

Hope International University

Location: Fullerton, CA, United States

Contact Information

Contact Name: HR Director

Contact Email: [email protected]

Contact Phone: 7148793901

Contact Mailing Address: 2500 E. Nutwood Ave, Fullerton