Under the medical-legal supervision of the Head Team Physician and the Associate Athletics Director (AHCA), the Lead Athletic Trainer for Football will take on a leadership role within the athletic department's medical program. This position is primarily responsible for overseeing the medical care of the football program, including injury prevention, evaluation, management, rehabilitation, and the overall well-being of athletes. The role includes leadership and collaboration with medical professionals to ensure effective healthcare delivery while fostering a positive culture for student-athlete performance and wellness.

• Leads and collaborates with the Associate Athletic Director/AHCA and Head Team Physician to ensure the effective operation of the football medical team, overseeing all aspects of player health and wellness
• Coordinates a multi-disciplinary team of healthcare providers to deliver comprehensive and consistent medical care to assigned athletes
• Serves as the primary point of communication between the football medical team and other stakeholders (front office, player personnel, recruiting staff), ensuring clear and timely reporting
• Develops, implements, and maintains emergency action plans, coordinating medical preparedness and response, in collaboration with the AHCA and local EMS teams
• Ensures mentorship and supervision of certified athletic trainers and other medical staff working with the sports team
• Prevents, recognizes, diagnoses, refers, and manages athletic-related injuries and illnesses
• Implements evidence-based injury prevention strategies with a focus on athlete-centered care
• Collaborates with sports science and performance professionals to evaluate injury and performance data, identify trends, and coordinate recovery strategies
• Establishes criteria for safe return-to-play protocols based on scientific evidence and best practices
• Manages both operative and non-operative rehabilitation programs for athletes
• Maintains accurate and up-to-date medical records for student athletes, ensuring compliance with relevant regulations
• Oversees the operation of the Freede Athletic Medicine Center/Elite Recovery Suite, ensuring facilities meet national and local guidelines
• Determines when on-site medical presence is required at practices, games, and other team activities, and coordinate coverage with the Associate AD
• Assists in managing the budget for football health and wellness, ensuring fiscal responsibility and adherence to financial guidelines
• Provides oversight and education for the certified athletic trainer(s) and physical therapist(s)
• Supervises and participates in organized practices and strength/conditioning sessions, ensuring athlete health and safety
• Attends all home and away competitions to provide medical support as required
• Performs other duties as assigned by the Associate Athletics Director/AHCA
• Provides education to athletes, staff, and stakeholders on health, safety, and wellness topics

Education:

• Masters degree
• Equivalency/Substitution: Experience or a combination of education & related experience can be considered in lieu of degree. A one-to-one ratio is used to determine the number of years of experience required in place of a degree. 

Experience:

• 8 years of related experience

Certifications or Licenses:

• Board of Certification for the Athletic Trainer (Certified)
• Licensed by the Oklahoma State Board of Medical Licensure and Supervision
• Current CPR/AED certification

• In-depth knowledge of athletic training techniques and their appropriate application
• Proficiency in manual therapy, therapeutic modalities, and injury evaluation
• Experience in managing a wide range of athletic injuries, illnesses, and how to manage them effectively
• Proven ability to develop and implement effective treatment plans and rehabilitation programs
• Strong understanding of emergency action planning and coordination with local EMS
• Strong knowledge of sports medicine, including current best practices for injury rehabilitation and post-injury care
• Proficiency in medical terminology, clinical procedures, and common injury management protocols
• Ability to translate complex medical information into clear, understandable communication for athletes, coaches, and other stakeholders
• Ability to make quick and effective decisions under pressure, particularly in emergency situations
• Strong critical thinking and problem-solving skills, especially when managing injuries, illnesses, and recovery plans for athletes
• Strong skills in mentoring and developing team members, including educating and supervising athletic trainers, physical therapists, and other support staff
• Ability to foster a learning environment and promote professional growth
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, dynamic environment where situations can change rapidly
• Flexibility to adapt to varying schedules and demands, particularly during athletic seasons or emergencies
• Strong attention to detail when managing medical records, assessing injuries, and developing treatment plans

• Must be able to work in both indoor and outdoor environments
• Flexibility to work evenings, weekends, and travel for competitions as required
• Occasional lifting, carrying, and physical exertion necessary for athletic training duties
• Ability to work in a high-pressure, fast-paced environment, especially during athletic events and emergencies
• Ability to climb, crouch, pull, push, reach, and stand for extended periods
• Engage in repetitive motions, communicate effectively, and possess the ability to hear and see in various environment