Assistant Football Coach - Defensive Coordinator

501 East 38th Street
Erie, PA
16546
814-824-2000
800-825-1926
mercyhurst.edu

Assistant Football Coach-Defensive Coordinator

Department: Football
Status: Exempt, Full Time
Closes: Open until filled

POSITION SUMMARY

Report To: Head Football Coach
Classification: Administrator

501 East 38th Street
Erie, PA
16546
814-824-2000
800-825-1926
mercyhurst.edu

Assistant Football Coach-Defensive Coordinator

Department: Football
Status: Exempt, Full Time
Closes: Open until filled

POSITION SUMMARY

Report To: Head Football Coach
Classification: Administrator

Mercyhurst University, an NCAA Division I member of the NEC invites applications for the position of Defensive
Coordinator for the football team to develop, promote, and supervise all facets of the Football team.

Mercyhurst University places a special emphasis on the teaching component of coaching positions. Participation in
sport at Mercyhurst builds on the important lessons students learn in the classroom. Mercyhurst views athletics as
an extension and important part of the education and teaching mission of the University. Student-athletes are
learning teamwork, ethics, discipline, and skill set that will enhance their ability to succeed after leaving the
University. The “teaching” of one’s sport and the related lessons that accompany participation in athletics are the
primary and central functions of each coaching position at Mercyhurst University.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Advanced knowledge of Football that has been acquired by significant experience coaching or playing in a

post-secondary environment of commensurate experience.

• Ensure that all relevant Mercyhurst University, NEC, and NCAA rules and regulations are followed.

Including, but not limited to: student-athlete eligibility, recruiting, financial aid, scheduling and academic
progress. Ensure compliance with Mercyhurst University, NEC, and NCAA rules by student athletes and
sport-related staff.

• Assist the head coach in the formation of the University’s defensive football staff, including hiring,

training and supervision of assistant coaches and graduate assistant coaches.

• Promote academic excellence, integrity, and graduation. Monitor academic progress, academic meetings,

class scheduling and attendance.

• Teach fundamental football skills and techniques, while preparing, leading, and executing practice and

game plans for both championship and non-championship seasons.

• Provide leadership and instruction in the personal and athletic development of student-athletes.
• Plan, promote, and conduct camps, clinics, and/or lessons.
• Develop meaningful relationships with prospective, current, and former student athletes.
• Participate in fund-raising, community service and engagement programs, assigned and/or coordinated by

the Department of Athletics.

• Lead efforts to enhance the overall student-athlete experience.
• Other duties as assigned.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

• Bachelor’s Degree is required; Master’s Degree preferred.
• Three years of relevant sport coaching
• Knowledge and understanding of NCAA rules and regulations

Last Updated 2/2026

Assistant Football Coach Job Description

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501 East 38th Street
Erie, PA
16546
814-824-2000
800-825-1926
mercyhurst.edu

• Ability to work evenings and weekends.
• Must have current training in First aid and CPR. (Or ability to obtain.)
• Subject to a criminal background check prior to employment.

KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS

• Exceptional leadership skills
• Proven ability to work effectively in a diverse community
• Excellent oral and written communication and interpersonal skills.
• Strong desire and ability to successfully recruit.
• Strong follow-through skills, as well as, the ability to plan, organize, and control projects through to

completion.

• Ability to perform the essential functions of the position with or without accommodations

WORKING CONDITIONS

Position involves both inside sedentary work and active work on the field in coaching and training situations with
student athletes.

APPLICATION PROCESS

Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled or until date
indicated above. Send cover letter, resume and 3 work-related references to:

Human Resources Mercyhurst University
501 East 38th Street
Erie, PA 16546
hrinfo@mercyhurst.edu

Mercyhurst University values diversity and is committed to the goal of achieving equal opportunity for
all. For that reason, Mercyhurst abides by federal, state, and local law in admissions, employment and all
services and programs provided.

Mercyhurst does not unlawfully discriminate based on race, color, religion, creed, sex, citizenship status,
ancestry, national or ethnic origin, age, familial status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression,
physical or mental disability, military or veteran status or any other legally protected characteristic or because
of any individual’s legally protected activities.

Mercyhurst complies with federal, state, and local legislation and regulations regarding
nondiscrimination. This policy applies to faculty, administration and staff, applicants for employment,
students and applicants for educational programs and activities.

Candidates must be currently eligible to work in the United States.

Last Updated 2/2026

Assistant Football Coach Job Description

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