JOB SUMMARY

The Assistant Director of Athletics for Sports Nutrition will direct and manage all aspects of nutritional services provided to University of Connecticut student-athletes. This includes, but is not limited to, working closely with the Departments of Sports Medicine and Sports Performance, UConn Athletics, and University personnel as well as outside consultants and/or vendors in a collaborative effort to provide the highest quality performance and clinical nutrition.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Coordinates nutrition services for all UConn student-athletes in intercollegiate athletic programs; provides nutrition education and outreach to student-athletes, teams, coaches and staff; counsels UConn student-athletes regarding nutrition for optimal performance and health and medical nutrition conditions; refers to and consults with Sports Medicine as appropriate in the context of nutrition care as it pertains to injury/illness; coordinates nutrition and sports performance directives with appropriate athletic staff regarding individualized supplement requirements and educates on its use; consults with coaching staff regarding performance standards, goals, and objectives; provides live-meal coaching to facilitate education on proper meal selection and coordinate efforts with appropriate Dining Services management and personnel; develops educational materials and opportunities for student-athletes on all aspects of nutrition which includes but is not limited to workshops, seminars, team talks, grocery store tours, dining hall tours, cooking classes, etc.; researches and evaluates products used by student-athletes for safety and compliance standards; plays an active role in management of supplement inventory and selection; assists teams with meals, menu planning, and game-time fueling for home and travel competition; coordinates and assists with Dining Services on Athletics operated dining areas; maintains an open line of communication and partners with Athletic Sports Medicine and Athletic Sports Performance staff regarding individual athlete care and health related department programs; is an active member of Treatment Team which includes participation in monthly meetings with Athletic Trainers, Team Physicians, and Licensed Mental Health Professionals to harmonize patient care and provide complete service to “high risk” students; maintains certifications(s) and licensure with appropriate continuing education; develops and administers the Sport Nutrition Department budget; supervision of any and all additional staff in the Sport Nutrition Department; and adheres to all policies and procedures of the University of Connecticut, it’s associated conference, and NCAA.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• Minimum of a Master’s degree in nutrition/dietetics, exercise science, or a related field.
• A minimum of three years of work experience as a Registered Dietitian (RD), preferably in collegiate or professional sports nutrition environment.
• Effective communication skills (written and oral) are critical and interpersonal skills are essential.
• Demonstrated ability to work in collaboration with sports medicine staff, sport performance coaches, and sport coaches to create an optimal health and performance environment.
• Knowledge of medical nutrition therapy, disordered eating, and motivational interviewing.
• Skilled in all aspects of Body Composition Analysis, Performance Nutrition, Medical Nutrition, and Disordered Eating.
• Experience with individualized nutrition counseling as well as group nutrition planning.
• Sensitivity to student-athlete issues.
• Proven ability to maintain confidentiality and discretion, handling sensitive matters involving patients.
• Knowledge of NCAA rules, specifically those surrounding the area of nutrition and supplementation.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Ph.D. in nutritional sciences, exercise science, or a related field.
• Credentialed as a Certified Specialist in Sports Dietetics (CSSD) by the Commission on Registration of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics.
• Experience working within an Electronic Medical/Health Records System.
• Experience that demonstrates the ability to work successfully with a diverse student population.

APPOINTMENT TERMS

Salary will be commensurate with experience.

TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT

Employment of the successful candidate is contingent upon the successful completion of a pre-employment criminal background check.