Graduate Assistant - Sports Performance

Southwest Minnesota State University Athletics is seeking qualified applicants for a Graduate Assistant - Sports Performance position for the 2026-27 academic year.

Position Summary

The Graduate Assistant for Sport Performance (Strength & Conditioning) assists the Director of Sport Performance in the design, implementation, and supervision of comprehensive training programs for intercollegiate student-athletes. This position supports multiple NCAA Division II sports and contributes to performance enhancement, injury prevention, and compliance with NCAA, conference, and institutional policies.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

Program Design & Implementation:

-Assist in the design and implementation of sport-specific strength and conditioning programs.

-Conduct and supervise team training sessions.

-Instruct proper lifting techniques, equipment use, and provide appropriate spotting during training sessions.

-Assist with Nutrition, Refueling Station, Speed, Agility, Conditioning (depending on strengths and interests).

Athlete Monitoring & Testing:

-Assist with performance testing and evaluation.

-Maintain training records and monitor athlete progress.

Collaboration & Communication:

-Work with coaches, athletic trainers, and Sports Medicine staff.

-Communicate training plans and athlete status.

-Assist the Director of Sport Performance with setup, operation, and maintenance of the Athletic Weight Room.

-Communicate and collaborate with coaching staff(s) regarding sport performance and goals for their teams.

Facility & Operations:

-Supervise weight room operations.

-Maintain equipment and ensure safety by mitigating potential injury risks and implementing Emergency Action Plans in the event of an injury.

Administrative Duties:

-Ensure compliance with NCAA and institutional rules.

-Perform additional duties as assigned.

Compensation

$8,000 annual stipend
Up to 18 credit hours of tuition waiver per year.
Typically a 2-year position

Reporting Structure

Reports to the Director of Sport Performance.

Application Process

Please submit a resume, cover letter and 3 references to Amy Schmiesing, Head Athletic Trainer, Southwest Minnesota State University, 1501 State Street, Marshall, MN 56258 or e-mail to amy.schmiesing@smsu.edu (or click 'Apply Now' to start your email). 
Candidate review begins immediately and continues until filled. AA/EOE Required Qualifications

Requirements:

-Bachelor’s degree in Exercise Science, Kinesiology, or related field.
-Acceptance into SMSU Graduate School, enrolling in a minimum of six credits per semester
-NSCA (CSCS) or CSCCa (SCCC) certification (or working toward).
-CPR, First Aid, AED certification (or working toward).

Preferred Qualifications

-Experience in collegiate athletics.
-Experience coaching multiple sports.
-Familiarity with performance technology.

Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities

-Ability to instruct and motivate student-athletes.
-Strong communication skills.
-Ability to manage multiple teams.
-Understanding of NCAA rules.

Work Environment

-Early mornings, evenings, and weekends required.
-Ability to lift heavy equipment.
-Maintain academic progress in graduate studies.