Job Opportunity: Men's Basketball Head Coach

Job Posting: Vancouver Island University Athletics & Recreation 
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Head Coach – Men's Basketball

Vancouver Island University Mariners
Competing in the Pacific Western Athletic Association (PACWEST) under the Canadian Collegiate Athletic Association (CCAA)
Location: Nanaimo, British Columbia
Position Type: Contract 
Fee for Service: $18,000 - $22,000 annually

Position Summary

Vancouver Island University (VIU) invites applications for the position of Head Coach, Men's Basketball. The Head Coach is responsible for leading, developing, and managing all aspects of the Mariners Men's Basketball program. This includes competitive performance, student-athlete development, recruitment, academic success, alumni engagement, and community outreach, while upholding the values and standards of VIU, PACWEST, and the CCAA.

The successful candidate will provide visionary leadership, foster a culture of excellence and accountability, and ensure a positive and inclusive student-athlete experience.

Key Responsibilities

Program Leadership & Development

• Provide strategic direction and long-term planning for the Men's Basketball program.
• Design and implement high-performance training plans, game strategies, and player development systems.
• Establish a culture rooted in integrity, respect, teamwork, and academic success.

• Identify, evaluate, and recruit high-quality student-athletes.
• Support student-athlete academic progress, retention, and graduation.

• Plan and conduct practices, team meetings, video sessions, and strength & conditioning coordination.
• Ensure compliance with all PACWEST and CCAA eligibility and operational requirements.

• Manage program budget responsibly and in alignment with departmental policies.
• Ensure adherence to VIU policies and all conference and national governing body regulations.

• Recruit, supervise, and mentor assistant coaches and support staff.

Qualifications

Required:

• NCCP Coaching certification is required – Certified Train to Train within three (3) years of hiring
• Bachelor's degree with a minimum of 3 years of coaching experience at the post-secondary, senior high school or high-performance level.
• Demonstrated experience in recruiting and developing student-athletes.
• Strong knowledge of PACWEST and CCAA rules and regulations (or equivalent collegiate governing bodies).
• Proven leadership, communication, and organizational skills.
• Valid driver's license and ability to travel extensively.

• Demonstrated commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion in sport.

Preferred:

• Head coaching experience at the post-secondary level.

• Class IV is an asset 
• Demonstrated ability to initiate, organize and lead team specific fundraising activities an asset.

• Experience with video analysis platforms and performance technology.

Core Competencies

• Leadership and team-building excellence
• Strategic planning and program management
• Student-athlete mentorship and academic support
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills
• Budget management and administrative proficiency
• Community relationship-building

Why Join the VIU Mariners?

As part of the competitive PACWEST conference and the nationally recognized CCAA, the Mariners program offers the opportunity to lead a respected collegiate basketball program within a supportive and student-centered university environment. Located in Nanaimo, BC, Vancouver Island University provides an exceptional coastal setting and a strong campus-community connection.

Application Process

Interested applicants should submit:

• Cover letter
• Resume/CV
• Three professional references

Please submit to mariners@viu.ca.