Concordia University Chicago (CUC) invites applications for the full-time, exempt position of Head Esports Coach/Director of Esports. This position reports directly to the Director of Athletics and is located in River Forest, IL.

The Head Esports Coach is responsible for developing and implementing all aspects of creating and directing a competitive collegiate Esports program. The candidate must fulfill these duties while adhering to the mission, vision, and values of Concordia University Chicago, the policies of the CUC Athletics department, and rules and regulations of the National Association of Collegiate Esports (NACE).

Responsibilities/Duties:

Coaching

• Develops students both academically and athletically
• Schedules and provides instruction for all practices, competitions, and events within University and NACE guidelines
• Instructs, teaches, and coaches students during practice and competition
• Conducts video analysis and instruction as a teaching and preparation tool
• Provides leadership and direction to students, community members, and support personnel

Recruitment and Retention

• Identifies, evaluates and recruits potential team members to Concordia-Chicago in accordance with University and NACE policies and procedures
• Recruits and retains students as team members and ensures that program meets annual squad size number
• Coordinates recruitment and scholarship activities with the Office of Undergraduate Admissions
• Ensures students meet Concordia-Chicago and NACE academic eligibility requirements to participate
• Collaborates and executes a comprehensive Esports marketing/recruitment plan

Administration and Events

• Reports recruitment and retention to Director of Athletics for inclusion in President's Council and Board of Trustees reports
• Oversees scheduling, budget control, public relations, program promotions, academic support, and retention of students
• Effectively plans and implements Esports events in a complex environment with multiple campus centers, a traditional higher education setting, and online learning
• Adheres to the policies and regulations of the College and NACE
• Prepares and maintains accurate records and reports in a timely manner; particularly regarding budget, eligibility, compliance and travel documentation.
• Maintains inventory of equipment, uniforms, and supplies
• Represents the College at conference, regional, state, national, and international meetings relating specifically to Esports
• Advocates for sponsorship opportunities related to program development.
• Maintains knowlege of trends and issues in Esports
• Other duties as assigned
• Candidates must support and be committed to the mission and identity of Concordia University Chicago, a university of the Lutheran Church - Missouri Synod (LCMS).

Skill Sets:

• Enthusiastic supporter of Lutheran higher education and Concordia University Chicago
• Current player ranking in relevant gaming title(s) and knowledge of relevant strategies, play patterns, and dynamics of competitive play
• Broader knowledge of online multiplayer games and technologies
• Knowledge of relevant Esports titles such as League of Legends, Overwatch, etc.
• Ability to manage time, projects, and deadlines; Experience in the implementation of programs or workshops with strong emphasis on details and follow up on assignments
• Ability to operate computer equipment in eSports Lab/Arena including knowledge of gaming platforms and supporting websites
• Ability to troubleshoot equipment hardware, software, and infrastructure as related to optimal gaming experience: including, but not limited to, Windows operating systems, social media aptitude; Microsoft Office Suite; Familiarity with desktop and web based conferencing tools - Skype, Skype Business, Microsoft Lync, Webex, etc.
• Ability to utilize resources, data, and tools effectively. Demonstrated track record for sustained measurement of program outcomes. Ability to work independently and with others to achieve desired results.
• Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills

Minimum Experience Required:

• 3-5 years of related experience of competitive gaming experience required
• Previous recruiting and Esport coaching experience at the high school or college level preferred

Education Requirements:

Bachelor's degree required

Compensation and Benefits:

Starting range is dependent upon individual qualifications and experience. Concordia University Chicago benefit options include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance
• Flexible Spending Account (FSA) and/or Health Savings Account (HSA)
• Disability and Survivor Plan (Basic Life Insurance)
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Retirement Pension Plan
• Retirement 403(b) Savings Plan
• Supplemental Life Insurance
• Accidental Death and Dismemberment Insurance
• Accident Insurance
• Critical Illness Insurance
• Tuition benefits (available for employees and their qualified dependents)

Application Information:

Interested individuals should include a cover letter, resume and references with their online application.

Concordia does not discriminate in the employment of individuals on the basis of race, color, national or ethnic origin, disability, sex or age. As an institution of The Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod, however, and to the extent allowed by law, Concordia University reserves the right to give preference in employment based upon religious affiliation.

Concordia University Chicago does not generally sponsor for employment visas except for positions that oversee, teach or support our international programs.

About Concordia University Chicago:

Concordia University Chicago is a liberal arts-based Christian university founded in the Lutheran tradition. Through its College of Theology, Arts & Humanities, College of Business, College of Education, and College of Health, Science & Technology, Concordia-Chicago offers more than 160 areas of study in small classes taught by professors who are passionate about teaching and student success. All undergraduate and graduate degrees are fully accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.

Concordia University Chicago has been recognized as a College of Distinction since 2010, and is consistently ranked among the Best Regional Universities-Midwest by U.S. News & World Report. For more than a decade, combined undergraduate and graduate enrollment has exceeded 5,000 students. Concordia University Chicago is located in River Forest, 10 miles west of downtown Chicago. Learn more about our commitment to higher education, rooted in the Gospel, at CUChicago.edu.

Steadfast in Jesus Christ as revealed in the Holy Scriptures, Concordia University Chicago promotes academic rigor in its liberal arts and professional programs; grounds students in objective truth, integrity, and excellence; and practices faithfulness to the Confessional teachings of the Lutheran Church - Missouri Synod, as it forms students for vocations in church, family, and the world.