Job Description
THE OPPORTUNITY
Sonoma State University (Sonoma State/SSU) is seeking a highly motivated leader to build its men's soccer program as the university launches its NCAA Division II Athletic Department for 2027-28. The ideal candidate will create a legacy that will serve as a vital component of the educational experience for years to come, with the vision and passion to shape a culture that inspires student-athletes and the campus community and competes for championships. The successful candidate must demonstrate a leadership style characterized by highly ethical practices and a commitment to inclusivity. This position is Non-Instructional Faculty (Department of Athletics: Coach) Unit 3 California Faculty Association (CFA).
ABOUT SONOMA STATE UNIVERSITY
Sonoma State University’s beautiful 274-acre campus is located in Sonoma County wine country, an hour north of San Francisco. The campus offers the ideal setting for teaching and learning and access to a community of rich cultural, environmental, and recreational opportunities. Founded in 1960, SSU is one of the 22 campuses of the California State University System. As members of the largest public higher education system in the nation, Sonoma State provides accessible, high-quality education. Sonoma State University respectfully acknowledges that the University sits on the traditional homelands of the Coast Miwok and Southern Pomo peoples. Sonoma State honors their rich history, enduring presence, and contributions, and remains committed to building partnerships that uphold equity, respect, and inclusion.
Sonoma State is a federally designated Hispanic-Serving Institution, committed to equity, inclusion, and opportunity for all. With a beautiful campus, active student life, and a focus on preparing graduates for career success, SSU is a place to learn, grow, and belong. Sonoma State’s campus is home to a vibrant community of scholars, innovators, entrepreneurs, creators, and doers. Consistently recognized among the top universities in the California State University system, SSU stands out for its graduation rates, national accolades in student success and equity, and a vibrant campus life. Sonoma State’s commitment to academic excellence, affordability, and inclusion, paired with a supportive community, empowers every student to thrive both on campus and in their future.
MISSION
Sonoma State is a regionally serving public university committed to educational access and excellence. Guided by our core values and driven by a commitment to the liberal arts and sciences, Sonoma State delivers high-quality education through innovative programs that leverage the economic, cultural, and natural resources of the North Bay.
CORE VALUES
Sonoma State’s core values are an expression of who we are. At Sonoma State, we proudly embrace integrity, respect, excellence, and responsibility as part of our Seawolf Commitment. Our core values include:
- Diversity and social justice
- Sustainability and environmental inquiry
- Connectivity and community engagement
- Adaptability and responsiveness
ABOUT SONOMA STATE INTERCOLLEGIATE ATHLETICS
Sonoma State University is launching an NCAA Division II Athletic program and will be part of the California Collegiate Athletic Association (CCAA). Sonoma State will serve approximately 186 student-athletes across ten sports (four men's teams and six women's teams).
The goal of Sonoma State Athletics is to provide a positive, equitable, and diverse environment for the student-athletes and staff. All athletic staff members are responsible for fostering these priorities via role modeling and mentoring student-athletes while upholding a competitive spirit that stresses amateurism, ethical conduct, good sportsmanship, and rules compliance. Priorities for the student-athletes include academic excellence, competitive success, and community outreach.
THE POSITION .
The Head Coach has the primary responsibility for oversight of all aspects of the men's soccer program and has broad responsibility for planning, organizing, and prioritizing work. Pursuant to NCAA Bylaw 11.1.2.1 (Responsibility of Head Coach), the Head Coach is responsible for the development, organization, and administration of the men's soccer program, which includes supervision of coaching assistants and/or athletic department staff.
Work assignments include but are not limited to the following: create and implement practice sessions; determine and instruct game strategy to prepare for competition; assign player positions; determine game rosters; create and implement recruitment strategies, including scouting, attending tournaments and game visits; monitoring the conduct and academic progress of student-athletes and implementing action plans as appropriate; developing short- and long-term measurable program objectives, evaluating and assessing results; modifying goals/objectives as appropriate; working with university advancement staff and the athletics department to raise funds and develop fundraising activities (fund raising targets to be set by the athletic director); promoting the men's soccer program through public speaking events, providing direction for operational aspects of the men's soccer program, including scheduling, travel arrangements and logistics, and other operational duties as assigned. The coach will work collaboratively with campus stakeholders to ensure their team is embedded within both the campus community and culture and the community at large. This includes active participation in campuswide events, clubs, organizations, activities, etc.
POSITION RESPONSIBILITIES
Responsibilities of this position will include but are not limited to:
- Coaching and Mentoring:
- Teach, coach, and mentor a diverse group of student-athletes.
- Develop and implement coaching strategies aligned with SSU's mission, values, and Seawolf Commitment.
- Foster academic progress and ensure NCAA compliance for student-athletes.
- Recruitment and Talent Identification:
- Identify and recruit talented student-athletes.
- Develop a comprehensive recruitment strategy.
- Administrative and Leadership Duties:
- Manage and administer the men's soccer program, including budget oversight.
- Drive continuous improvement through effective leadership.
- Support gender equity and diversity initiatives within the department.
- Community Engagement and Fundraising:
- Secure philanthropic and fundraising support for the men's soccer program and athletic department as determined by the athletic director.
- Promote positive relations with campus and community stakeholders, including athletes, peers, staff, faculty, and donors.
- Compliance and Professionalism:
- Adhere to NCAA and conference rules and regulations.
- Conduct all responsibilities with integrity and professionalism.
REQUIRED AND PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
Minimum qualifications for this position are:
- Education: Bachelor’s degree required; Master’s degree preferred.
- Experience: Experience coaching collegiate soccer at NCAA Division I or Division II level preferred. Previous head coaching experience is advantageous.
- Certifications: First Aid, CPR, and AED certification required. A valid California driver’s license may be needed.
- Skills: Strong organizational, time management, and communication skills. Proficiency in computer applications and online tools.
- Characteristics: Leadership abilities, ability to develop effective relationships, commitment to diversity/equity.
Additional Requirements
- Availability: Flexibility to travel and work weekends.
- Adherence: Understanding and application of CSU policies, Title IX, NCAA rules, and educational codes.
- Interpersonal Skills: Ability to build relationships with athletes, coaching staff, parents, and SSU personnel.
Rank and Salary
Starting salary placement depends on qualifications and experience and is a full-time 12-month appointment.
