AC Grand Rapids is an MLS NEXT Pro expansion club preparing to launch in 2027. We are building more than a professional soccer team. We are building a club that reflects the pride, ambition, resilience, and identity of West Michigan while creating a model for what the future of professional soccer can become in the United States.
Our vision is not simply to compete. Our vision is to create a club where performance, development, culture, and community are inseparable. We believe sustainable success is built when exceptional people are united by a common purpose, aligned around clear standards, and committed to continuous improvement.
Every decision we make is guided by a simple belief: We exist to help people become the best version of themselves while pursuing excellence together. This philosophy influences how we recruit players, develop talent, coach teams, build culture, serve our community, and define success.
Position Summary
The Equipment Manager serves as the steward of the daily environment for the First Team, ensuring every player and staff member has the resources, equipment, and support necessary to perform at their highest level.
This role is responsible for managing all aspects of equipment operations while helping create a professional environment where preparation eliminates distractions and every detail reflects the standards of AC Grand Rapids.
The Equipment Manager oversees the planning, preparation, maintenance, inventory, transportation, and presentation of all team equipment while supporting daily training, matchday operations, travel, and player services.
Success in this role requires exceptional organization, relentless work ethic, attention to detail, proactive planning, positive energy, and a genuine passion for serving others. The ideal candidate understands that championship environments are built through consistency, professionalism, and thousands of small details executed exceptionally well.
The Equipment Manager will work closely with the VP of Sporting Operations & Strategy, Head Coach, Manager, Team Operations, technical staff, performance staff, medical staff, players, league personnel, vendors, and external partners to ensure operational excellence across all soccer activities.
The successful candidate will play a foundational role in creating the daily standards, professionalism, and player experience that define AC Grand Rapids.
Primary Responsibilities
Equipment Operations & Inventory Management
- Oversee all First Team equipment operations
- Prepare all training and matchday equipment to the highest professional standards
- Maintain inventory of apparel, equipment, footwear, medical support items, and training materials
- Manage equipment ordering, receiving, organization, storage, and distribution
- Maintain accurate inventory systems and equipment records
- Coordinate equipment repairs, replacements, and vendor relationships
- Ensure all club equipment reflects the professional image and standards of AC Grand Rapids
Training & Matchday Preparation
- Prepare all training fields prior to each session
- Ensure all equipment is organized, functional, and ready before players and staff arrive
- Set up and break down training sessions efficiently
- Coordinate all matchday equipment for home and away competitions
- Prepare locker rooms before every training session and match
- Ensure all uniforms, apparel, and equipment meet league standards
- Anticipate coaching and player needs before they arise
Travel & Equipment Logistics
- Coordinate transportation of all equipment for away matches, preseason, and club travel
- Prepare detailed travel equipment checklists and loading plans
- Ensure all team equipment arrives safely and on schedule
- Coordinate equipment needs with opposing clubs and league personnel
- Manage shipping, freight, and logistics for extended travel
- Develop contingency plans for unexpected travel situations
Player Services & Daily Environment
- Create a professional environment where players can focus entirely on performance
- Build trusted relationships with players while maintaining professionalism
- Anticipate player and staff needs before they are requested
- Assist players with equipment fitting, apparel, and daily operational support
- Help create a welcoming, energetic, and positive training environment
- Support onboarding of new players by preparing equipment and club-issued materials
- Contribute to an environment where consistency, professionalism, and service define the player experience
Facility & Locker Room Operations
- Maintain exceptional standards throughout locker rooms, equipment rooms, and storage areas
- Ensure facilities remain organized, clean, and professional
- Coordinate laundry operations and uniform preparation
- Manage daily locker room setup
- Ensure all club branding and presentation standards are maintained
- Take ownership of every operational detail within soccer facilities
Collaboration & Communication
- Work collaboratively with coaching, medical, performance, and operations staff
- Communicate proactively regarding equipment needs and operational issues
- Coordinate with the Manager, Team Operations on travel, scheduling, and logistics
- Build strong relationships with league officials, vendors, and visiting clubs
- Support club events and soccer operations initiatives as needed
Operational Excellence & Continuous Improvement
- Develop systems that improve equipment operations and efficiency
- Identify opportunities to enhance the daily player experience
- Maintain detailed operational procedures and inventory systems
- Evaluate equipment needs and recommend improvements
- Consistently seek ways to improve service, preparation, and operational quality
Required Skills & Qualifications
- Previous experience in professional, collegiate, or elite-level sports equipment operations preferred
- Exceptional organizational and time management skills
- Strong attention to detail and commitment to excellence
- Demonstrated ability to manage multiple priorities simultaneously
- Outstanding interpersonal and relationship-building skills
- Positive attitude and service-oriented mindset
- Strong work ethic with willingness to work flexible hours
- Ability to work independently while collaborating effectively with staff
- Basic computer proficiency and inventory management experience
- Legally eligible to work in the United States
- Ability to travel extensively with the team
- Must pass pre-employment screens
Preferred Qualifications
- Previous experience as an Equipment Manager in professional soccer
- Experience within MLS, MLS NEXT Pro, USL, NCAA Division I, or comparable environments
- Knowledge of soccer equipment and professional matchday standards
- Experience managing equipment inventories and vendor relationships
- CPR/First Aid certification
- Experience supporting elite athletes in high-performance environments
