Director of Coaching

Appalachian Highlands United based in the Kingsport and Johnson City areas of Tennessee is looking for a Director of Coaching. Our mission is to champion a player-centered approach that empowers every athlete to grow, compete, and lead. From grassroots to elite levels, our coaches and programs are built to elevate performance and character alike - driven by values that create a culture of purpose, unity, and excellence. 

Our Vision and Values 

Our vision is to foster a culture of purpose-driven development and holistic growth. 

Our club is built on the foundation of virtue , where we instill integrity and sportsmanship in every player, ensuring they grow as principled individuals both on and off the pitch. We believe that every athlete deserves the opportunity to excel, providing a pathway for talent to meet the hard work necessary for success. Through a culture of solidarity , our players learn that their greatest strength lies in their commitment to one another, fostering a unified team spirit that transcends the game. This growth is guided by intentional mentorship , as our coaches and senior players dedicate themselves to shaping the next generation of leaders. Ultimately, we strive to build a lasting legacy in which the values learned today become the standard for those who follow, creating an enduring impact on our community for years to come. 

Role Overview 

We are seeking a highly motivated and experienced Director of Coaching to lead the strategic development and oversight of our programs. This critical leadership role ensures the quality and consistency of all coaching efforts, aligning them with our organizational vision while building a cohesive player pathway. 

This role collaborates closely with the Director of Operations, Director of Member Services, Director of Recreational Soccer, 2 Assistant Directors of Coaching, and the Board of Directors.

Key Responsibilities: 

Program Strategy: Lead the development and implementation of a long-term strategic plan for all coaching activities and player development. Sets club's coaching philosophy and methodology, including standards of play and training principles.

Coach Mentorship: Recruit and supervise a team of coaches, providing regular evaluations and mentoring to ensure high standards of performance. 

Player Pathway: Design and oversee a unified curriculum that provides a clear and consistent progression for athletes across all age groups. 

Quality Assurance: Monitor training sessions and games to ensure adherence to our coaching philosophy and safety standards. 

Stakeholder Communication: Serve as the primary point of contact for parents and staff regarding technical development, maintaining strong, transparent relationships. Manage key relationships with city personnel and field owners.

Operations & Logistics: Manage tryouts, seasonal schedules, and the coaching budget.  Coordinate and approve interclub guest player requests.

Budget Adherence: Manage the technical department strictly within the Board-approved annual budget, including equipment, staffing, and travel. 

Revenue Generation: Develop and execute revenue-generating programs (camps, summer clinics, showcases) to support club financial health. Provide technical content for Marketing Communications to format and publish.

Vendor Management: Oversee equipment ordering and facility rentals to ensure cost-efficiency and eliminate waste. 

Qualifications: 

Education: Bachelor’s degree in a sport or business-related field. 

Experience: Minimum of 5–6 years of coaching experience, with at least 2 years in a leadership or administrative role. 

Certifications: Possession of a national coaching license (e.g., USSF C License or equivalent required; USSF B or above strongly preferred). 

Skills: Exceptional leadership, analytical thinking, and communication skills to inspire both staff and athletes. 

Residency: Must be willing to reside in the Kingsport or Johnson City area.

CPR/First Aid certification.  

Working Conditions: 

The schedule is not a traditional Monday-through-Friday schedule. Regular availability is required during weekday business hours, weekday evenings, and weekends. Hours will fluctuate throughout the soccer year. Some weeks may require fewer hours, while tryouts, tournaments, league events, staff development, and other peak periods may require additional evening or weekend work.

Standing, walking, observing, demonstrating, and coaching for extended periods

Significant time spent on-field in various weather conditions. 

Occasionally lifting and carrying equipment weighing up to 50 pounds

Traveling between fields, matches, meetings, and club events

Eligibility Requirements 

Applicants for this position must have authorization to work in the U.S. without restriction.  Appalachian Highlands United will not pursue visa sponsorship for this position.  As a final step in our hiring process for the DOC position, we conduct a standard background check to verify professional qualifications and ensure workplace safety.  

Compensation and Benefits 

Opportunities for professional growth, continuing education, and occasional travel for development. 

A stable, supportive work environment within a thriving community.  Kingsport and Johnson City rank as the top 2 cities to live in Tennessee according to USA Today  due to low cost of living, affordable dining and top schools.  The cities are surrounded by the rolling green hills of the Tennessee Valley, with the Blue Ridge in the distance.  

Annual Salary: Starting at $40,000 - Competitive based on experience and qualifications.

Equal Employment Opportunity and Reasonable Accommodation

Appalachian Highlands United is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

How to Apply

Interested candidates who are seeking more information or to apply now should submit a resume, cover letter, and professional references to careers@ahunited.com

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.

This job description summarizes the general duties, responsibilities, and requirements of the position. It is not intended to list every activity, assignment, or working condition associated with the role. Appalachian Highlands United may adjust responsibilities based on organizational and program needs.