Assistant Football Coach - Defensive Coordinator in Newport

Interested parties are requested to submit a cover letter, current resume, and the names, addresses, and telephone numbers of at least three professional references at the time of application. This position will be posted until filled; however, review of applications will begin on 02/22/2026. Search finalists are required to complete a CNU sponsored background check. Christopher Newport University (CNU) will make a reasonable effort to accommodate persons with disabilities in the application and/or interview process. Persons with disabilities who require accommodation should contact the CNU Human Resources Office by calling (757) 594-7145.

Chief Objective of Position: Responsible for assisting in all aspects of establishing and maintaining a successful Division III football program and providing specialized expertise in their area of concentration.

Work Tasks:

• Assist in field and classroom instruction and coaching in football techniques and strategy of the Christopher Newport University football team; evaluate individual performance and provide leadership and instruction in areas of deficiency as required.
• Participate in the collection and analysis of tactical and statistical data of opponent teams; assist in designing game plans and strategies; analyze performance of football team and adjust strategies as needed.
• Consult with University faculty and administrators for the amelioration of academic issues and concerns for student success.
• Screen and evaluate athletic qualifications of prospective football recruits, coordinate with University Undergraduate Admissions Office to establish academic eligibility and arrange meetings between prospects and the university.
• Coordinate campus tours for visiting prospective players.
• Assist with new student orientation activities.
• Compile and assist in the analysis of game statistics for an assigned area of Christopher Newport University football team performance.
• Assist in the planning and administering of the off season physical training program; provide special training for the individual football team members as required.
• Promote the philosophy and objectives of the intercollegiate athletics program to include adhering to all departmental policies and procedures, as well as the rules and regulations of the university and NCAA.
• Represent the Christopher Newport University Athletic Department in professional, civic, charity, and alumni events.
• Perform public relations and marketing activities to promote athletic program: perform community relation activities.
• Coordinate coaches clinic; supervise dress code for staff and team members.

This position is designated as a Campus Security Authority. A Campus Security Authority (or CSA) is defined as an “official of the institution with significant responsibility for student and campus activities.” A CSA is required to immediately report any crime that is reported to them to the University Police who will then review, evaluate, and investigate the reported crime. Annual training is required by the Department of Education for all personnel who have been designated as a Campus Security Authority.

This position is designated as a “responsible employee” who has the authority to redress sexual violence, who has the duty to report incidents of sexual violence or other student misconduct, or who a student could reasonably believe has this authority or duty.

Develops and maintains very positive and professional customer service and/or relations within the office/department and with all constituencies to include students, faculty, staff, guests, and employees. Demonstrates a positive and professional attitude and treats everyone with dignity and respect. Fully supports the “Student’s First” value at CNU and routinely goes the extra mile in providing service.

Follow workplace safety regulations and adhere to applicable standards, processes, and programs established for your position. Report unsafe work conditions to your supervisor. Immediately report work-related incidents to your supervisor and participate in accident investigation requests. Perform other related duties as assigned.

Knowledge, Skills, Abilities (KSA's) related to position:

• Knowledge of and demonstrated experience with NCAA rules and regulations.
• Ability to learn and work with Conference rules and regulations.
• Skill in training or instructing student athletes; excellent interpersonal communication skills.
• Demonstrated organizational and time management skills.
• Ability to analyze situations and develop solutions; travel and work non-traditional hours; manage people and projects.

Required Education: Master’s Degree or Bachelor’s degree with work experience that equates to an advanced degree.

Experience Required: Experience in collegiate coaching.

Additional Consideration - Experience: Proven experience in recruiting successful student athletes consistent within NCAA guidelines. Collegiate defensive secondary experience and/or as a defensive coordinator. Progressively responsible track record. Experience in fostering positive internal and external public relations. Prior experience in team management to include supervising.

Salary Information: Starting at $56,840 Commensurate with Education and Experience.

Christopher Newport University is anchored in excellence, and that is reflected in our ranking as the #1 regional public university in Virginia and #3 among regional public universities in the South. We are an inclusive and kind community, founded on our shared values of honor, scholarship, service and leadership. We offer an outstanding liberal arts education provided by dedicated, gifted teacher-scholars who are supported by a compassionate team of faculty and staff. Our 4,500 undergraduate and graduate students pursue more than 90 areas of study, as they live and learn on a largely residential campus. CNU’s on-campus performing and visual arts centers offer Broadway shows, world-class performances, engaging exhibitions, transformative lectures and classes, and more. Our athletics program is the winningest at any level in Virginia. Christopher Newport University is in the heart of Newport News, a vibrant city with breathtaking scenery and unique experiences. The city and region offer affordable neighborhoods, local and name-brand shops, diverse dining options, local parks and water access, and fun recreational opportunities. Whatever your interests and goals, you belong at CNU!

For further details and information about Christopher Newport, visit cnu.edu.

Required Documents: Resume, Cover Letter

Optional Documents: Other Application Materials

Contact Information for at Least Three References: Avenue of the Arts, Newport News, VA 23606, P: (757) 594-7000, F: (757) 594-7230, hr@cnu.edu

Is this position telework eligible? No

Posting Information: Posting Number: AP446P, Posting Date: 02/06/2026, Review Begin Date: 02/22/2026, Number of Vacancies: (not provided)

Christopher Newport University, an EO Employer, is fully committed to Access and Opportunity.