Head Athletic Trainer

Department: UL

Classification: Professional Faculty

Job Category: Administrative or Professional Faculty

Job Type: Full-Time

Work Schedule: Full-time (1.0 FTE, 40 hrs/wk)

Location: Fairfax, VA

Workplace Type: On Site Required

Salary: Salary range starting in the upper $60K’s, commensurate with education and experience.

Criminal Background Check: Yes

Motor Vehicle Records Check: Yes

Works with Minors check: Yes

About the Department:

Mason Recreation meets the diverse needs and interests of the Mason community by providing programs, services, and facilities that are innovative, comprehensive, inclusive, and of unsurpassed quality. Mason Recreation inspires an inclusive atmosphere that fosters lifelong well-being for the University's diverse students and community through active experiences, education, and engagement.

About the Position:

The Head Athletic Trainer oversees all aspects of the Athletic Training program. This role prioritizes service to club sport athletes while extending limited services to other university members. The Head Athletic Trainer is responsible for designing and implementing injury prevention programs, providing immediate medical care, managing rehabilitation sessions, and offering comprehensive event coverage. Administrative duties include managing the daily operations of the athletic training room, maintaining accurate medical records, ensuring compliance with university and regulatory policies, and overseeing the athletic training budget. Additionally, this position will recruit, train, and supervise a team of athletic trainers, foster professional development, and facilitate collaborations with university academic programs and external organizations to support internships and mentorships. This position requires a commitment to staying updated on the latest research and best practices in athletic training, promoting health and wellness within the university community, and supporting the future addition of adaptive sport programs to the department. This position offers a unique opportunity to shape the future of athletic training services at George Mason University and to contribute to the development of inclusive and adaptive sports initiatives.

Responsibilities:

Injury Prevention, Treatment, and Event Coverage

• Designs and implements comprehensive injury prevention programs tailored for club sports teams;
• Conducts thorough assessments and evaluations of injuries, administers immediate medical care, and facilitates rehabilitation sessions;
• Creates, manages, and monitors individualized treatment plans for injured athletes;
• Educates athletes on effective injury prevention strategies and proper rehabilitation techniques; and
• Provides coverage for games and practices, ensuring the availability of immediate medical care and support for athletes.

Administrative Management and Documentation

• Manages and organizes the daily operations of the athletic training room;
• Coordinates scheduling of athletes for evaluations, treatment sessions, and rehabilitation;
• Maintains accurate and up-to-date medical records and documentation;
• Ensures compliance with university and regulatory policies related to medical records and documentation;
• Develops and implements policies and procedures for the athletic training program;
• Oversees inventory management, including ordering and stocking necessary medical supplies and equipment;
• Prepares and manages the athletic training budget, including tracking expenditures and identifying cost-saving opportunities;
• Compiles and analyzes injury data to identify trends and areas for improvement in injury prevention programs;
• Generates reports on athlete health and safety for internal and external stakeholders;
• Communicates effectively with university administration, club officers, coaches, and athletes;
• Ensures the athletic training room and equipment meet health and safety standards; and
• Other related duties as assigned. 

Supervision of Staff

• Recruits and hires additional athletic training staff as needed;
• Provides comprehensive training and ongoing guidance to staff members on injury assessment and treatment protocols;
• Schedules staff shifts and assignments to ensure adequate coverage for all club sports events and practices;
• Fosters a collaborative and supportive work environment, encouraging teamwork and professional growth;
• Ensures compliance with all relevant regulations, policies, and standards in sports medicine practice;
• Addresses and resolves any staff conflicts or issues promptly and effectively;
• Maintains accurate records of staff certifications, continuing education, and professional development activities;
• Organizes regular meetings to review protocols, discuss challenges, and share best practices; and
• Ensures timely and accurate submission of payroll and invoicing information.

Professional Development and Collaboration

• Engages in ongoing professional development activities to stay updated on the latest research and best practices in athletic training;
• Collaborates with coaches, healthcare professionals, and other stakeholders to provide comprehensive care for club sports athletes;
• Engages in continuing education focused on adaptive sports and working with athletes with disabilities to ensure the program effectively meets their unique needs;
• Participates in conferences, workshops, and continuing education programs to enhance skills and knowledge;
• Collaborates with university academic programs and external organizations to facilitate internships, mentorships, and other collaborative opportunities; and
• Participates in university and community outreach programs to promote health and wellness.

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent combination of education and experience; 
• Experience typically obtained in 2+ or more years working as a certified athletic trainer in a sport/recreation setting;
• Demonstrated knowledge of sports-related injuries, injury prevention techniques and treatments, and rehabilitation methods;
• Proficiency in providing immediate medical care, including CPR, first aid, and emergency response protocols;
• Ability to establish rapport with athletes, coaches, healthcare professionals, and other stakeholders in the club sports department;
• Ability to keep accurate and organized medical records, injury reports, treatment plans, and progress notes;
• Demonstrated ability to make quick and accurate decisions in emergency situations and determine appropriate courses of action for injury management;
• Demonstrated ability to adapt to dynamic and fast-paced environments, handle multiple tasks simultaneously, and adjust to changing priorities;
• Demonstrated commitment to maintain high ethical standards, patient confidentiality, and professional conduct in accordance with relevant regulations and guidelines;
• Valid Virginia Driver’s License at time of hire - must currently possess an appropriate, active, valid motor vehicle operator’s license that meets all of GMU’s requirements for operating state vehicles and equipment under Mason’s Vehicle Use Policy 1411 https://universitypolicy.gmu.edu/policies/vehicle-use/. The Office of Risk Management reserves the right to review the driver’s licenses and Motor Vehicle Reports (MVRs) of all candidates selected with employment contingent upon a favorable review;
• Flexibility to work evenings, weekends, and travel with club sports teams as needed;
• Ability to lift and carry equipment and supplies (up to 50 pounds) with or without reasonable accommodation;
• Board of Certification for the Athletic Trainer at time of hire or within 30 days of hire;
• First Aid/CPR/AED Professional Rescuer at time of hire or within 30 days of hire;
• Instructor – First Aid/CPR/AED Professional Rescuer at time of hire or within 30 days of hire; and
• Current Virginia State Medical Licensure at time of hire or within 30 days of hire.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Master’s degree in related field;
• Experience working in a university recreation setting;
• Demonstrated communication, leadership, and organizational skills;
• Ability to work independently, prioritize tasks, and manage multiple responsibilities; and
• Proficiency in electronic medical records systems and basic computer applications.

Instructions to Applicants: 

For full consideration, applicants must apply for Head Athletic Trainer at https://jobs.gmu.edu/. Complete and submit the online application to include three professional references with contact information, and provide a Cover Letter/Letter of Intent with Resume for review.

Posting Open Date: December 16, 2024

Posting Close Date: January 10, 2025

Open Until Filled:  Yes