Head of Running Programs | Dayton Track Club at Runners Plus… · Dayton

Head of Running Programs Dayton Track Club Position Overview Dayton Track Club/Runners Plus is seeking an enthusiastic, knowledgeable, and supportive Head of Running Programs to develop and oversee welcoming, high-quality training programs throughout the year. Programs may include run/walk, beginner and base-building groups, 5K and 10K training, and half-marathon and marathon training. The Head of Running Programs will help participants of different experience levels and abilities build fitness, confidence, and community. The role will focus on creating a positive experience that supports participation and steady progress, while also helping runners prepare for their race goals. The ideal candidate enjoys helping people become more active, can organize and lead groups, and understands that a successful training program offers more than workouts: it gives participants a supportive team and a reason to keep coming back. Key Responsibilities Develop and maintain an annual calendar of quality training programs that serves runners and walkers with a range of experience, abilities, and goals. Create progressive, adaptable training plans for each program and training cycle. Provide appropriate options within a training cycle for participants preparing for different target races. For example, a fall marathon cycle may include race-specific adjustments for the Chicago, Indianapolis, Columbus, and Air Force Marathons. Plans will be designed for groups and race goals, not individually customized for each participant. Lead or coordinate scheduled group training sessions and oversee groups such as the run/walk group. Recruit, coordinate, and support assistant coaches, pace leaders, or volunteers as appropriate. Foster an inclusive, encouraging, and team-oriented environment where beginners, walkers, first-time distance runners, and experienced racers feel welcome. Help participants establish realistic goals and make steady progress through safe, sustainable training. Support participant engagement and program growth in coordination with Runners Plus and Dayton Track Club leadership. Coordinate program promotion, registration, schedules, participant communications, and program needs with Runners Plus and Dayton Track Club leadership. Monitor enrollment, attendance, retention, and participant feedback to evaluate program quality and identify opportunities to improve. Communicate training plans, reminders, schedule changes, and race information clearly and on time. Lead or coordinate occasional educational sessions or share guidance on pacing, race preparation, recovery, hydration, footwear, and fueling, as appropriate. Promote safe running practices and ensure group activities are conducted responsibly. Represent Dayton Track Club positively at training sessions and selected community events. Qualifications Demonstrated knowledge or experience in distance running, endurance training, or group fitness. Experience coaching, leading, or mentoring people with varied experience and ability levels preferred. Strong understanding of training principles for a range of distances, including 5K, 10K, half-marathon, and marathon. Strong communication, organization, and interpersonal skills. A positive coaching style that balances encouragement, accountability, and appropriate challenge. Ability to lead outdoor sessions in varying weather conditions. Current CPR/AED and first-aid certification required. Running coach certification, such as RRCA, USATF, or equivalent, preferred but not required. Ideal Candidate The ideal candidate: Enjoys supporting people at different stages of their running or walking journey. Creates a fun, welcoming, and supportive group experience. Can balance group goals with the needs of individual participants. Values consistency, confidence, and sustainable progress alongside race performance. Is dependable, organized, and comfortable communicating with participants and program leaders. Leads by example with professionalism and a commitment to safety. Schedule & Commitment Part-time, year-round position, with a greater commitment during training cycles. In-person training sessions are expected twice per week for 30-40 weeks of the year and once per week during the remaining weeks. Additional time is needed for training-plan development, race-specific adjustments, participant communication, program coordination, and recruiting or supporting group leaders. The expected time commitment and any additional event or race-day responsibilities should be agreed upon in advance. Compensation Compensation: $6,000–$8,000 annually, depending on experience and agreed scope. The expected time commitment and any additional event or race-day responsibilities should be agreed upon in advance. How to Apply Interested candidates should submit a brief resume or coaching background along with a short statement describing their running experience, coaching philosophy, and experience working with runners or walkers of different abilities.