Head Athletic Trainer

Job Title: Athletic Trainer

Location: Lane College, Jackson, Tennessee

Position Type: Full-Time

Division: NCAA Division II

Department: Athletics

Reports To: Director of Athletics

Position Summary

Lane College is seeking a dedicated, knowledgeable, and student-centered Athletic Trainer to support the College's NCAA Division II athletic program. The Athletic Trainer will provide comprehensive sports medicine services to student-athletes across Lane College's 12 competitive sports. This position is responsible for injury prevention, evaluation, treatment, rehabilitation, emergency care, health education, and coordination of medical services.

The successful candidate will work collaboratively with coaches, team physicians, medical professionals, athletic staff, and student-athletes to promote optimal health, performance, safety, and overall well-being.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Injury Prevention and Management

• Develop, implement, and monitor injury prevention programs tailored to the specific needs of individual sports and student-athletes.
• Evaluate, assess, and provide initial treatment for athletic injuries and illnesses.
• Provide immediate care and emergency response during practices, games, and athletic events.
• Determine appropriate return-to-play status in consultation with physicians and other medical professionals.
• Assist in developing and maintaining emergency action plans for athletic events and facilities.

Rehabilitation and Recovery

• Design, implement, and supervise rehabilitation programs for injured student-athletes.
• Monitor and document student-athlete progress throughout the rehabilitation process.
• Adjust rehabilitation plans as needed based on recovery progress and medical guidance.
• Communicate with student-athletes, coaches, physicians, and other healthcare providers regarding injury status, treatment plans, and recovery timelines.

Health and Wellness Education

• Educate student-athletes on injury prevention, nutrition, hydration, recovery, and overall wellness.
• Provide guidance on safe participation in athletic activities.
• Conduct workshops, trainings, or educational sessions on health-related topics relevant to student-athletes.
• Promote a culture of wellness, safety, and accountability within the athletics program.

Collaboration and Communication

• Work closely with team physicians, physical therapists, coaches, athletic administrators, and other healthcare professionals to coordinate care.
• Maintain clear and professional communication with coaching staff regarding student-athlete health, availability, and readiness to participate.
• Provide guidance and support to coaches regarding athlete health, safety protocols, and injury prevention practices.
• Serve as a resource for student-athletes regarding health-related concerns and appropriate medical referrals.

Administrative Responsibilities

• Maintain accurate, confidential, and up-to-date records of injuries, treatments, rehabilitation progress, medical clearances, and related documentation.
• Ensure compliance with NCAA regulations, institutional policies, HIPAA guidelines, and applicable state and federal laws related to athletic training and student-athlete healthcare.
• Assist in the development and management of the athletic training budget.
• Maintain inventory of athletic training supplies, equipment, and medical resources.
• Assist with insurance documentation, medical forms, physical exam records, and other required student-athlete health documentation.

Event Coverage and Travel

• Provide athletic training coverage for all home athletic events and practices as assigned.
• Provide coverage for select away competitions and travel with teams as necessary.
• Coordinate medical coverage for athletic events when multiple events are scheduled.
• Ensure athletic training facilities and sideline medical areas are properly prepared and stocked for practices and competitions.

Professional Development

• Stay current with advancements in sports medicine, athletic training, injury prevention, rehabilitation, and student-athlete care.
• Complete required continuing education to maintain certification and licensure.
• Participate in professional organizations and contribute to the athletic training profession.
• Maintain all required certifications, licenses, and professional credentials.