Head Swimming Coach

Department: Athletics | Reports to: Director of Athletics | Hiring Pay Range: Stipend | FTE: Temporary/Seasonal

THE ROLE

The Head Swimming Coach plays an important role in shaping the student-athlete experience at Catlin Gabel. This position leads all aspects of the swimming program, creating a positive, inclusive, and competitive environment where students can develop their athletic skills, confidence, teamwork, and sportsmanship. Through practices, competitions, and mentorship, the Head Swimming Coach helps students grow both in and out of the pool while supporting the mission and values of the school.

The ideal candidate is a collaborative and student-centered leader who is passionate about swimming and youth development. They are organized, dependable, and committed to fostering an environment where every athlete feels supported, challenged, and encouraged to reach their full potential.

WHAT YOU'LL DO

The Head Swimming Coach reports to the Director of Athletics and is responsible for:

• Program Leadership & Team Development: Lead the swimming program and create a positive team culture that promotes athletic growth, inclusion, teamwork, and sportsmanship. Establish clear expectations and support student-athletes in reaching their individual and team goals.
• Practice & Competition Management: Plan and lead effective practices, prepare athletes for competition, and coordinate all aspects of swim meets and team activities throughout the season.
• Student Safety & Well-Being: Provide appropriate supervision and maintain a safe environment for all student-athletes. Support students' physical and emotional well-being while adhering to school and athletic program safety standards.
• Program Operations & Collaboration: Coordinate with assistant coaches, families, and the Athletic Department to ensure smooth program operations. Support equipment management, facility use, and team uniform distribution and collection.

WHO YOU ARE & KEYS TO SUCCESS

To be successful in this role, you will excel in these areas:

• Student-Centered Leadership: You are passionate about supporting young people and creating an environment where student-athletes can thrive academically, socially, and athletically.
• Communication & Relationship Building: You build strong relationships with students, families, colleagues, and officials through clear, respectful, and professional communication.
• Organization & Reliability: You effectively manage practices, competitions, schedules, and administrative responsibilities while maintaining attention to detail and follow-through.
• Knowledge of Swimming & Coaching: You bring knowledge of swimming techniques, athlete development, and coaching best practices to support a safe and rewarding athletic experience.
• Commitment to Inclusion & Sportsmanship: You model integrity, respect, and good sportsmanship while helping foster a welcoming environment for all participants.

Minimum Qualifications

• Experience coaching, teaching, competing in, or otherwise leading youth swimming programs
• Current First Aid and CPR certification, or ability to obtain certification within 30 days of hire.
• Completion of required NFHS and OSAA coaching certifications.
• Reliable transportation to attend practices, competitions, and athletic events throughout the Portland metropolitan area.
• Preferred: Three or more years of coaching, teaching, or athletic leadership experience.

WHAT ELSE YOU SHOULD KNOW

This is a seasonal stipend position requiring availability throughout the swim season. Regular attendance at practices, competitions, team meetings, and athletic department activities is expected. Evening work and occasional weekend commitments are required, as well as travel to away competitions within the Portland metropolitan area.

The role requires standing for extended periods, supervising student-athletes in aquatic environments, and occasionally lifting, moving, or setting up athletic equipment.

Stipend amounts are based on relevant years of experience.

WHO WE ARE

Catlin Gabel is an independent, progressive school (preschool-grade 12) whose mission is to foster compassionate and curious citizens of the world by inspiring in every student a love of learning and the courage to take responsible action. The school is located in the southwest hills of Portland, OR on a 67-acre wooded campus. All team members are an integral part of the student experience and are expected to uphold our core values of Kindness, Integrity, and Inclusion in all that they do.

Catlin Gabel School is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, marital status, disability, or any other protected characteristic under federal, state, or local law. If you have any questions, please reach out to HR@catlin.edu.

The Athletics Department is dedicated to providing meaningful opportunities for students to develop leadership, resilience, teamwork, and a commitment to personal growth through athletic participation. Coaches work collaboratively with students, families, and colleagues to cultivate an inclusive and supportive athletic culture that values both competitive excellence and character development. Team members are encouraged to bring enthusiasm, professionalism, and a student-centered approach to their work.