This is a description of a Staff Position Classification. It is not an announcement of a position opening. To view descriptions of current openings, please go to UNMJobs and Search Postings to view positions that are currently accepting applications.
The following statements are intended to describe, in broad terms, the general functions and responsibility levels characteristic of positions assigned to this classification. They should not be viewed as an exhaustive list of the specific duties and prerequisites applicable to individual positions that have been so classified.
Summary
Leads, directs, and oversees the holistic support system for all student-athletes to ensure their success in the classroom, community, and beyond their competitive years. Serves as a member of the executive leadership team and provides strategic direction and daily leadership for academic services, student-athlete development, and leadership programming. Advances diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts across the department. Reports directly to the Vice President and Director of Athletics. Serves as the designated sport administrator for assigned athletic programs.
Duties and Responsibilities
Oversees the design, implementation, and evaluation of student-athlete academic services, leadership initiatives, and development programs for all varsity sports, including career preparation, personal development, and financial literacy.
Supervises daily operations and all personnel within the Lobo Center for Student-Athlete Success
Serves as the department's liaison to the Faculty Athletics Representative (FAR) and facilitates communication on academic compliance matters.
Serves as the primary advisor and departmental contact for the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC); promotes student-athlete engagement, leadership, and community service.
Directs and manages the LIFE Program, ensuring alignment with NCAA requirements and student-athlete support priorities.
Develops and maintains collaborative relationships with campus departments, including academic affairs and student services.
Leads strategic efforts to enhance student-athlete retention, graduation, personal development, and career readiness. Supports at-risk or underperforming student-athletes through personalized interventions, success planning, and targeted outreach.
Champions and coordinates diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives for student-athletes and staff; develops programming that fosters belonging and cultural awareness.
Oversees and monitors key academic performance metrics, including Academic Progress Rate (APR), Graduation Success Rate (GSR), eligibility certification, continuing eligibility, and progress-toward-degree benchmarks. Provides regular reporting and data analysis to the Director of Athletics regarding student-athlete academic performance, trends, and risk indicators.
Designs and implements assessment tools to track academic progress, leadership development, and student-athlete satisfaction.
Manages budgets, staffing, and resource allocation for assigned units and initiatives.
Serves as sports coordinator for one or more NCAA Division I team sports, to include oversight of sport budget(s), personnel management, NCAA/MWC compliance, and team athletic/academic performance.
Ensures compliance with all laws, policies, rules, and regulations set forth by the Board of Regents, University, NCAA, Conference, state and federal laws, and other governing bodies/agencies.
Serves as Campus Security Authority as outlined by the Clery Act.
Performs miscellaneous job-related duties as assigned.
Minimum Job Requirements
Bachelor's degree; at least 7 years of experience directly related to the duties and responsibilities specified.
Completed degree(s) from an accredited institution that are above the minimum education requirement may be substituted for experience on a year-for-year basis.
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Required
Advanced knowledge of academic and student development theory, principles, and best practices in athletics.
Strong understanding of NCAA academic progress standards, eligibility requirements, and compliance.
Experience tracking and interpreting key academic metrics including APR, GSR, and other student success indicators.
Demonstrated ability to lead and manage a diverse team of student support professionals.
Knowledge of DEI initiatives and ability to lead inclusive programming tailored to a diverse student-athlete population.
Proven experience developing and assessing student leadership and life skills programming.
Ability to foster strong relationships with academic units, faculty, and university support services.
Strong interpersonal and communication skills and the ability to work effectively with a wide range of constituencies in a diverse community.
Skill in data analysis, assessment, and strategic reporting to inform decision-making.
Budget planning and fiscal management skills.
Strong organizational, problem-solving, and leadership skills.
Conditions of Employment
Employees in this job title are subject to the terms and conditions of an employment contract. Employment contracts are typically subject to review and renewal on an annual basis.
Compliance with all NCAA rules and regulations is required in this position.
Working Conditions and Physical Effort
No or very limited physical effort required.
No or very limited exposure to physical risk.
Work is normally performed in a typical interior/office work environment.
The University of New Mexico provides all training required by OSHA to ensure employee safety.
