Henry E. Bartels ‘48 Head Coach of Men's Lightweight Rowing

Cornell University • Ithaca, NY

22d • Onsite

About The Position

Cornell University is seeking its next Henry E. Bartels ‘48 Head Coach of Men's Lightweight Rowing to lead one of the most storied and tradition-rich programs in collegiate rowing. Cornell rowing traces its roots to 1873, making it one of the oldest rowing traditions in the United States. Since the introduction of lightweight rowing in 1920, Cornell crews have established themselves among the nation's elite, capturing multiple EARC championships and IRA national titles while developing generations of scholar-athletes, Olympians, and leaders. Today, Cornell Lightweight Rowing combines a proud competitive tradition, exceptional facilities, a dedicated alumni network, and the academic distinction of an Ivy League education. The next Head Coach will have the opportunity to build upon that foundation while shaping the future of one of collegiate rowing's most respected programs. The anticipated salary range for this position is $85,000-100,000; final offer will depend on relevant experience, skills, and qualifications. This position is not eligible for visa sponsorship.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree with at least 5 years of coaching experience at a relevant level and institution type, with NCAA Division I experience strongly preferred; or an equivalent combination of education and experience
• Demonstrated passion & proven success in rowing (lightweight rowing, ideally) and intentional development of coaching skills - technical and tactical - along with a track record of developing student-athletes and contributing to the sport in a leadership capacity
• Evidence of supporting student-athletes in health and safety, academic success, cross-cultural awareness, and an inclusive team environment
• Real energy for recruiting - and the ability to recruit and develop student-athletes from varied backgrounds, deploying resources strategically and engaging the alumni network appropriately
• Strong written and spoken communication, genuine enthusiasm for the external-facing parts of the role, and demonstrated success in or capacity for fundraising
• Relevant coaching certifications and education
• Knowledge of NCAA and Ivy League rules and regulations as well as proficiency with computers and required software, familiarity with ARMS software, video editing software, and other athletic-specific technology skills preferred.
• Must have and maintain a clean and valid driver’s license and DOT and NYS water safety certification (NYS certification may be earned immediately post-hire).

Nice To Haves

• Curious - Intuitive, interpersonally excellent, and self-aware, with good judgment. Actively pursues new knowledge and skills, uses mentors and educational resources well, and contributes to the growth of others. Demonstrates strong listening skills and discernment.
• Capable - Has a compelling vision for the program. Hungry, self-motivated, and takes initiative - while including others and staying community-minded. Is someone others will enthusiastically follow. Demonstrates the skill set to manage a budget and handle administrative responsibility with care.
• Caring - Genuinely cares about and connects with student-athletes and colleagues. Brings positive energy, optimism, and passion. Puts team over self and defines success collectively rather than individually. Prioritizes student-athlete wellbeing - physical and mental - and communicates in a way that is respectful, proactive, constructive, and consistent.
• Cornell Enthusiasm - Understands and is genuinely excited about what makes Cornell unique - the people, the weather, the location, the league, the level of competition, and academic rigor.
• Character and Integrity - Demonstrated commitment to rules and procedures. Honest and trustworthy across personal and professional domains. Shows the courage and capacity to make and execute thoughtful, difficult decisions, with a balance of confidence and humility. Committed to recruiting and mentoring staff and student-athletes of equally high character.
• Championship Mentality - Understands what it takes to build a competitive program, ideally drawing on firsthand experience as part of a championship-level team.

Responsibilities

• Lead all coaching and competitive operations, including practice planning, race preparation, athlete development, strategy, and team culture.
• Promote student-athlete wellbeing, fostering an environment that prioritizes physical health, mental health, academic success, personal accountability, and belonging.
• Recruit, develop, and retain exceptional student-athletes capable of thriving both athletically and academically within Cornell's rigorous educational environment.
• Oversee program administration, including scheduling, travel, equipment management, budgeting, and NCAA, EARC, Ivy League, and University compliance.
• Hire, supervise, and mentor assistant coaches, fostering professional growth and operational excellence.
• Cultivate relationships with alumni, parents, and donors, supporting fundraising and stewardship efforts that advance the long-term success of the program.
• Partner across Cornell Athletics with admissions, compliance, academic support, sports medicine, strength & conditioning, communications, and student-athlete services professionals.

Benefits

• Comprehensive physical education program
• Support and services to roughly 25,000 undergraduate, graduate, and professional students on multiple campuses in the U.S. and abroad.
• Support and services to roughly 25,000 undergraduate, graduate, and professional students on multiple campuses in the U.S. and abroad.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior