One of the world’s leading universities, Columbia University Athletics offers elite-level student-athletes the ability to compete for and win Ivy League titles and NCAA Championships. With 32 varsity sports, Columbia Athletics is the largest NCAA Division I athletics program in New York City and the only NCAA Division I sports program in Manhattan. A beautiful and peaceful campus in the heart of New York City, Columbia offers the most diverse student body in the Ivy League. Columbia Athletics has positioned itself with elite-level coaches and top-notch facilities in the Campbell Sports Complex, Baker Athletics Complex, and Dodge Fitness Center. Columbia Rowing combines elite-level competition, state-of-the-art facilities, and a diverse and ambitious student body.
The Assistant Heavyweight Rowing Coach provides coaching, recruiting, administrative, and operational support under the direction of the Head Heavyweight Rowing Coach and Director of Rowing. This position will contribute to Columbia Heavyweight Rowing programs on a daily basis, both on the water and in the office, with emphasis on Recruiting leadership and execution of a comprehensive recruiting strategy with a strong focus on the identification, evaluation, and recruitment of high-achieving student-athletes domestically and internationally. Developing and maintaining extensive recruiting networks; cultivating relationships with coaches, clubs, and rowing organizations; and assessing prospective student-athletes for their potential to gain admission, excel academically, and contribute to competitive success. Ensures recruiting efforts align with program objectives, departmental priorities, NCAA/Ivy League regulations, and the mission and strategic goals of the University.
Responsibilities
Coaching & Athlete Development
- Achieve a high level of competency in rowing skill instruction, motivation, and tactical strategies under the direction of the Director of Rowing and head coaches.
- Exhibiting supportive and cooperative behavior in pursuing sport program goals established by the Head Coach
- Exhibiting leadership and professional behavior in dealing with student-athletes
- Collaborate with sports medicine, strength & conditioning, academic services, and other support staff to ensure the holistic well-being of student-athletes.
- Assist in developing and executing training plans that balance long-term athlete development with immediate competitive performance.
- Contribute to the Physical Education program through required teaching responsibilities as assigned.
Recruiting
- Lead and execute a comprehensive recruiting strategy with a strong emphasis on the identification, evaluation, and recruitment of high-achieving student-athletes across the United States and internationally. Develop and maintain extensive recruiting networks; cultivate relationships with coaches, clubs, and rowing organizations; and assess prospective student-athletes for their potential to gain admission, excel academically, and contribute to competitive success. Ensure recruiting efforts align with program objectives, departmental priorities, NCAA regulations, and the mission and strategic goals of the University.
- Recruit student-athletes under the direction of the Director of Rowing and Head Heavyweight Rowing Coach.
- Identify and cultivate domestic and international recruiting pipelines consistent with Columbia’s academic and athletic standards.
- Evaluate prospective student-athletes for both athletic potential and fit with Columbia Rowing’s team culture, values, and institutional mission.
- Identify prospects who can contribute meaningfully to the team through their abilities, character, and experiences.
- Manage recruiting communication and databases to ensure timely follow-up, accurate record keeping, and adherence to NCAA/Ivy League compliance guidelines.
Administration & Operations
- Assist with team operational needs.
- Exhibit ownership, initiative, and follow-through on administrative work including budget management, event planning, and reporting as delegated by the Director of Rowing.
- Participate in alumni-, fan-, and fund-raising activities, as well as broader departmental and community initiatives.
Team Culture & Mentorship
- Support the development of a team culture built on belonging, discipline, and respect.
- Serve as a mentor to student-athletes, promoting leadership, accountability, and personal growth alongside athletic achievement.
- Demonstrate sincere interest in the social, emotional, and academic development, as well as the athletic welfare, of student-athletes.
- Exhibit leadership and professional behavior in daily interactions with student-athletes, staff, faculty, and alumni.
Professional Growth & Departmental Contribution
- Participate in professional development opportunities such as clinics, workshops, and conferences to strengthen coaching knowledge and skills.
- Adhere to the highest professional standards and ethical conduct in alignment with NCAA, Ivy League, IRA, University, and Department of Intercollegiate Athletics and Physical Education policies and regulations.
- Contribute to the maintenance of effective working relationships with all members of the department.
- Perform additional duties as assigned by the Director of Rowing, head coaches, or the Director of Intercollegiate Athletics and Physical Education
Columbia University is an Equal Opportunity Employer / Disability / Veteran
Pay Transparency Disclosure
The salary of the finalist selected for this role will be set based on a variety of factors, including but not limited to departmental budgets, qualifications, experience, education, licenses, specialty, and training. The above hiring range represents the University’s good faith and reasonable estimate of the range of possible compensation at the time of posting.
