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 Coach
  • Coach
  • Football Coach
  • Track 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

Line chart of annual wages by percentile. U.S. is the solid line. 10th percentile: U.S. $27,490. 25th percentile: U.S. $33,960. 50th percentile: U.S. $45,920. 75th percentile: U.S. $61,930. 90th percentile: U.S. $93,980. Use the left and right arrow keys to move between percentiles.

  • U.S.
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
Skills & Requirements: Knowledge

Tools & Technology

Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation

In-Demand Technology

Frequently requested by employers in job postings

  • C++
  • Facebook
  • Google Docs
  • Microsoft Excel
  • Microsoft Office software
  • Microsoft Outlook
  • Microsoft PowerPoint
  • Microsoft Word

Technology Skills

  • Bloomz
  • Edmodo
  • Edpuzzle
  • Edulastic
  • Evernote
  • Flipgrid
  • Google Classroom
  • Google Drive
Tools & Technology: Technology Skills

Tools & Equipment

  • Baseball catching gloves
  • Communications headsets
  • Cyclical variations in adaptive conditioning CVAC pods
  • Digital stopwatches
  • Digital video cameras
  • Digital video disk DVD players
  • Field hockey sticks
  • Figure skates
Tools & Technology: Tools & Equipment