Department: WSU Crew

Campus Location: Wichita, KS - WSU Main Campus

Hire Type: Full Time

Pay: Salary range begins at $42,700 and can be adjusted based on experience

Work Schedule: Academic Year: (August - May) Typically begins at 5:30 AM-2:30 PM, with evening & weekend hours as needed for practices, regatta’s, and facility operations. Summer: Standard schedule of 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM, evening & weekend hrs as required for programs & events

Export Compliance Requirement: No export control requirement.

Job Story

As the Assistant Rowing & Boats and Bikes Manager, you’ll help shape the future of our rowing program through coaching support and team development, while also managing our popular Boats and Bikes rental service. This position combines athletic leadership, outdoor recreation, and community engagement—perfect for someone eager to grow and make a difference.

Job Summary

Manage the development and day-to-day activities of assigned recreation program. Initiate and support outreach opportunities to the University and the community. Assist the head coach with daily activities of assigned sports program, which may include recruiting, training, coaching, scheduling, academics, retention, program development and fundraising.

Essential Functions

• Maintain and oversee programs, events, and activity schedules, and participant disciplinary situations. Assist patrons, University staff, and community with program specific and/or general inquiries.
• Provide skills training and direct program volunteers and staff to ensure compliance with program policies, procedures, and code of ethics. May provide program specific academic instruction as needed.
• Assist in the development and implementation of recreation policies and procedures.
• Recommend, monitor, and administer program budget and expenditure reimbursements in accordance with approved plans and procedures.
• Assist with coaching duties including but not limited to: practice planning, athlete development, and competition preparation. Help manage equipment, facility logistics, and team travel.
• Support recruitment efforts and maintain compliance with University and governing body regulations.

Job Duties

Key Responsibilities:

Rowing Program Support
• Assist with coaching duties including practice planning, athlete development, and regatta preparation.
• Support recruitment efforts and maintain compliance with university and governing body regulations.
• Help manage equipment, boathouse logistics, and team travel.

Boats and Bikes Business Operations
• Oversee daily operations of Boats and Bikes, including kayak, paddleboard, and bike rentals.
• Manage inventory, equipment maintenance, customer service, and point-of-sale systems.
• Hire, train, and supervise student staff; ensure safety and professionalism in all interactions.
• Track revenue, manage accounts receivable, and support budget planning.

Water Event Coordination
• Plan and execute water-based events on the Arkansas River, including races, paddling excursions, and community festivals.
• Coordinate logistics such as permits, safety protocols, staffing, and equipment setup.
• Collaborate with campus departments, city agencies, and community partners to promote events and ensure smooth operations.

Team building & Outreach Programs
• Design and lead team-building activities on the water for corporate groups, schools, and community organizations.
• Customize programs to meet group goals, focusing on leadership, communication, and collaboration.
• Ensure all participants receive proper instruction and safety briefings.
• Collect feedback and assess program impact for continuous improvement.

Risk Management & Compliance
• Implement and monitor safety protocols for rowing, boating, and outdoor recreation activities.
• Ensure compliance with university policies, liability waivers, and emergency response procedures.
• Maintain certifications and training for CPR/AED, First Aid, and water safety.

Required Education and Experience:

• High school diploma or equivalent
• Five (5) years of experience in recreation program administration or sports management, with one (1) year of collegiate level coaching. Every 30 hours of college coursework may be substituted for one (1) year of experience.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Knowledge of rowing techniques, athlete development, and competitive event preparation, with the ability to assist in coaching and recruitment.
• Strong organizational and operational management skills for overseeing rental services, inventory, and student staff supervision.
• Event planning and coordination expertise, including logistics, safety protocols, and collaboration with campus and community partners.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to deliver outstanding customer service, lead team-building programs, and foster an inclusive environment.
• Ability to implement risk management practices and maintain certifications (CPR/AED, First Aid, water safety) to ensure compliance and participant safety.

Additional Information:

The anticipated start date for this position is mid-June/early July 2026.

Job location is 50% on WSU Main Campus and 50% at the River Vista Boathouse on the Arkansas River in downtown Wichita.

Physical Requirements:

Ability to communicate with others and accurately exchange information. Frequent 60-90%
Ability to remain in a stationary position. Occasional 30-60%
Ability to operate a computer and other office equipment including but not limited to phone, printers, copiers, and calculators. Frequent 60-90%
Ability to move, transport, and/or deliver items, supplies, or equipment. Occasional 30-60%
Ability to move or traverse across campus, within buildings and offices, and/or across external environments. Occasional 30-60%

Additional Physical Requirement:

Medium Work: Exerting up to 50 pounds of force occasionally and/or up to 20 pounds of force frequently, and/or up to 10 pounds of force to constantly move objects.