Coaches and Scouts

Instruct or coach groups or individuals in the fundamentals of sports for the primary purpose of competition. Demonstrate techniques and methods of participation. May evaluate athletes' strengths and weaknesses as possible recruits or to improve the athletes' technique to prepare them for competition. Those required to hold teaching certifications should be reported in the appropriate teaching category.

SOC: 27-2022.00

Common Job Titles

Basketball CoachCoachFootball CoachTrack and Field Coach

What You'll Need to Succeed

AI-generated

Key competencies for this occupation at a glance

  • KnowledgeDesign practice sessions and conditioning programs applying principles of education and training to maximize skill acquisition and performance.
  • Hands-onDemonstrate sport-specific techniques and movement patterns using regulation equipment across multiple skill levels to model proper form.
  • KnowledgeEvaluate athlete strengths, weaknesses, and competitive readiness using video analysis software and performance metrics to inform development plans.
  • KnowledgeDevelop individualized training programs and competitive strategies integrating sport psychology principles and biomechanical analysis.
  • MindsetIntegrate motivational techniques with evidence-based coaching methods when building team cohesion and athlete confidence under competitive pressure.
  • KnowledgeAnalyze competitive performance data and game footage using motion analysis and statistical software to identify tactical improvements.
  • MindsetAdvocate athlete welfare and personal development goals while balancing competitive demands with long-term health and safety considerations.
  • Hands-onCoordinate team logistics, equipment management, and event scheduling across multiple venues while maintaining regulatory compliance.
  • KnowledgeApply learning strategies and instructional differentiation techniques to accommodate diverse athlete skill levels and learning preferences.
  • KnowledgeAssess recruitment prospects and scouting reports evaluating athletic potential, character fit, and program alignment.
  • MindsetRespond to athlete feedback and interpersonal conflicts using active listening and negotiation skills to maintain positive team dynamics.
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics

Annual wage data for Coaches and Scouts (2024)

Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)

250,940

Wage Distribution by Percentile

MetricU.S.
10% of workers earn the following or less$27,490
10% of workers earn the following or more$93,980
Workers on average earn$58,910

+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)

Skills & Requirements

Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance

  • Education and Training3.8/5
  • English Language3.7/5
  • Administration and Management3.6/5
  • Psychology3.6/5
  • Customer and Personal Service3.5/5
Tools & Technology

Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation

In-Demand Technology

Frequently requested by employers in job postings

C++FacebookGoogle DocsMicrosoft ExcelMicrosoft Office softwareMicrosoft OutlookMicrosoft PowerPointMicrosoft Word

Technology Skills

BloomzEdmodoEdpuzzleEdulasticEvernoteFlipgridGoogle ClassroomGoogle Drive

Tools & Equipment

Baseball catching glovesCommunications headsetsCyclical variations in adaptive conditioning CVAC podsDigital stopwatchesDigital video camerasDigital video disk DVD playersField hockey sticksFigure skates