Coaches and Scouts

Job Zone 4 - Considerable preparation needed

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.

Pay & job outlook

Median pay: $47,320/yr (U.S. national, May 2025)

$28,790$98,860

Typical range nationwide (10th–90th percentile). This is a population snapshot, not a personal prediction - actual pay varies by location, employer, and experience.

Job outlook: +6.4% projected growth, 2024–2034 — faster than average.

About 41,800 openings per year, on average, over the decade.

Typical entry-level education: Bachelor's degree.

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, OEWS and Employment Projections.

Top skills

InstructingSpeakingLearning StrategiesMonitoringReading ComprehensionCritical ThinkingSocial PerceptivenessActive ListeningJudgment and Decision MakingActive Learning

Top knowledge areas

Education and TrainingEnglish LanguageAdministration and ManagementPsychologyCustomer and Personal ServiceCommunications and MediaPersonnel and Human ResourcesPublic Safety and Security

Core tasks

• Plan, organize, and conduct practice sessions.

• Provide training direction, encouragement, motivation, and nutritional advice to prepare athletes for games, competitive events, or tours.

• Adjust coaching techniques, based on the strengths and weaknesses of athletes.

• Instruct individuals or groups in sports rules, game strategies, and performance principles, such as specific ways of moving the body, hands, or feet, to achieve desired results.

• Plan strategies and choose team members for individual games or sports seasons.

• Monitor the academic eligibility of student athletes.

• Counsel student athletes on academic, athletic, and personal issues.

• Analyze the strengths and weaknesses of opposing teams to develop game strategies.

Frequently asked questions

What's the median pay for Coaches and Scouts?

The median pay for Coaches and Scouts is $47,320 per year, per the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

What's the job outlook for Coaches and Scouts?

Employment for Coaches and Scouts is projected to change +6.4% from 2024 to 2034 - faster than average.

What education is typically required for Coaches and Scouts?

Typical entry-level education: Bachelor's degree.

How many job openings are there each year for Coaches and Scouts?

About 41,800 openings per year, on average, over the decade.