Assistant Athletic Trainer Job in the USA – Immediate Hire with Visa Sponsorship Available
Appalachian State University, a nationally recognized public institution located in the scenic Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina, is excited to announce a full-time position opening for an Assistant Athletic Trainer.
The chosen candidate will primarily support the Women’s Basketball program but may also be assigned to assist with other sports as needed. This opportunity is designed for a highly motivated and passionate athletic trainer who thrives in a dynamic, fast-paced intercollegiate athletic environment.
The successful applicant will join a forward-thinking and student-centered Department of Athletics committed to the comprehensive development of student-athletes.
Appalachian State prides itself on fostering academic excellence, athletic competitiveness, personal growth and career readiness among its student-athlete population. The Assistant Athletic Trainer will report directly to the Senior Associate Athletics Director for Student-Athlete Health and Well-Being.
Position Location: Boone, North Carolina
Institution: Appalachian State University
Department: Special Projects (Code: 120010)
Position Reference Number: 087691
Rank: Staff (Non-Faculty)
Position Type: Full-time (1.0 FTE)
Minimum Eligibility Requirements
To be considered for this position, all applicants must meet the following baseline qualifications:
- Must hold active Board of Certification (BOC) credentials for athletic trainers.
- Must be eligible for licensure as an athletic trainer in the state of North Carolina by the North Carolina Board of Athletic Training.
- Must possess a completed bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution.
Preferred Experience and Qualifications
Although not required, the following qualifications are considered highly desirable:
- Master’s degree in athletic training, exercise science, kinesiology, sports medicine or a closely related discipline.
- A minimum of one to three years of hands-on experience in athletic training post-certification, particularly in a collegiate or professional sports setting.
- Demonstrated success in working directly with female athletes, especially in basketball, is advantageous.
Primary Responsibilities and Role Expectations
The Assistant Athletic Trainer will be tasked with executing a range of duties to ensure the health, safety and performance optimization of student-athletes. Major areas of responsibility include, but are not limited to:
- Injury Prevention and Risk Management:
- Develop, implement and monitor preventive care strategies for student-athletes.
- Coordinate injury risk assessments and pre-participation evaluations.
- Integrate best practices to reduce injury incidence and severity.
- Injury Assessment and Treatment:
- Provide immediate care for sports-related injuries during practices and games.
- Deliver evidence-based rehabilitation protocols tailored to individual athletes.
- Collaborate with sports medicine staff and external medical providers as needed.
- Rehabilitation and Recovery:
- Design and monitor rehabilitation programs aimed at promoting safe return to sport.
- Employ manual therapy, therapeutic modalities and corrective exercise techniques.
- Document treatment plans and progress notes in accordance with university and medical standards.
- Daily Athletic Training Room Operations:
- Maintain an organized, hygienic and compliant athletic training facility.
- Monitor and manage inventory of medical supplies and equipment.
- Schedule appointments and coordinate communication with health professionals.
- Event and Practice Coverage:
- Provide comprehensive coverage for Women’s Basketball practices, games and travel.
- Fulfill coverage assignments for other sports as determined by the department.
- Supervision of Athletic Training Students:
- Serve as a mentor and educator for students in athletic training programs.
- Evaluate performance and provide constructive feedback.
- Encourage learning and application of clinical best practices.
- Administrative and Collaborative Duties:
- Engage in regular communication with coaching staff, strength and conditioning personnel and university health officials.
- Participate in department meetings, trainings and committees as assigned.
- Complete administrative assignments from the Senior Associate Athletics Director for Student-Athlete Health and Well-Being.
University Athletics Mission
The athletics program at Appalachian State University is deeply embedded in the institution’s commitment to holistic student development. The belief system guiding this department emphasizes the union of academic accomplishment and athletic distinction. Intercollegiate competition serves as an extension of the classroom, promoting values such as integrity, leadership and perseverance.
Student-athletes at Appalachian State are encouraged to grow intellectually, socially and physically. As a department, Athletics upholds a vision of excellence in both academic performance and sportsmanship, with the goal of nurturing well-rounded individuals who make meaningful contributions to society. All team members represent the university not just as athletes, but as engaged learners and community ambassadors.
Position Details
- Appointment Type: Full-time (1.0 FTE), 12-month annual appointment.
- Work Schedule: The schedule will vary according to sport season, travel and departmental needs; expect more than 40 hours per week, including nights, weekends and holidays.
- Physical Demands: This role involves standing for extended periods, lifting athletic equipment and traveling with teams.
- Suggested Salary Range: Competitive and commensurate with education and experience.
Application Process
Candidates interested in applying for this position should submit the following required materials:
- Cover Letter: Clearly state interest, experience and fit for the position.
- Resume/Curriculum Vitae: Include educational background, work history and relevant certifications.
- BOC Certification: Upload a copy under the “License and Certification” section.
- References: List a minimum of three professional references, including contact information. This may be submitted in the application form or as an attachment.
Additional Information
- Visa Sponsorship: Not specified; applicants requiring sponsorship should inquire directly.
- Mandatory Staff Classification: This position is not classified as mandatory staff.
Contact Information
- Search Committee Chair: Scott Crothers
- Email: crotherss@appstate.edu
- Application Portal: APPLY NOW
Appalachian State University is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to inclusive excellence. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, national origin, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age or disability. Appalachian State encourages individuals from diverse backgrounds to apply and contribute to the strength of our academic and athletic communities.
Frequently Asked Questions
What certification is required to apply for this position?
Applicants must possess a Board of Certification (BOC) credential for athletic trainers. This certification is mandatory and serves as verification of professional competency in the field.
Do I need to be licensed in North Carolina before applying?
You do not need to hold a license at the time of application, but you must be eligible for licensure by the State of North Carolina Board of Athletic Training. Proof of eligibility will be required during the hiring process.
Is a master’s degree required for this role?
A master’s degree is not a mandatory requirement; however, it is preferred. Candidates who have a master’s degree or are currently pursuing one—especially in athletic training or sports medicine—will be considered more competitive.
How many years of experience do I need to qualify?
At minimum, you must have a bachelor’s degree and be certified. However, candidates with one to three years of post-certification experience or those who have earned a master’s degree with clinical practicum may be preferred.
What sports will the Assistant Athletic Trainer primarily work with?
The primary assignment will be the Women’s Basketball program. However, responsibilities may include coverage of additional sports, depending on department needs and event schedules.
What are the key responsibilities of this role beyond event coverage?
Aside from game and practice coverage, the Assistant Athletic Trainer will manage injury prevention and rehabilitation, oversee training room operations, supervise athletic training students and assist with administrative tasks related to athlete health and well-being.
Is this position eligible for visa sponsorship?
The job listing does not explicitly confirm visa sponsorship. Candidates who require sponsorship should directly contact the Search Chair or HR department for clarification before applying.
What does the work schedule look like for this role?
The role is full-time, with a commitment of 40+ hours per week. Work hours will vary based on athletic schedules and evening or weekend availability is often required to cover events and practices.
How do I submit my application and required documents?
Applications must be submitted through the official Appalachian State University job portal. Required documents include a cover letter, resume, BOC certification uploaded under the certification section and at least three professional references.