What are some effective ways to find athletic trainer positions in high schools? I'm especially interested in opportunities in Texas or Austin, but open to other areas as well. How can I make my application stand out?
To gain employment as an athletic trainer in a high school, it's essential to understand that this role often involves a mix of different skill sets—not just knowledge of physiology and sports medicine, but also strong people skills, since you'll be working with students, coaches, and school administration. Here are few action steps to begin your job search and improve your chances of being a standout candidate.
1. Networking: Start with your professional network. Reach out to professors, mentors, and peers from your Athletic Training program. Even if they are not directly aware of any openings, they might know someone who is.
2. Job Listing Sites: Regularly check popular job listing sites like Indeed, Glassdoor, and LinkedIn for athletic trainer positions in high schools. Be sure to filter your searches to the specific locations you're interested in, like Austin, Texas.
3. Professional Associations: As an athletic trainer, becoming a member of professional associations such as the National Athletic Trainers' Association (NATA) can provide excellent networking opportunities and access to job boards exclusive to members.
4. Texas-Specific Resources: In Texas, the Texas State Athletic Trainers' Association has job posting resources. The University Interscholastic League (UIL) is also a great place to start.
5. Direct Outreach: Reach out directly to high schools. Many schools don’t advertise positions publicly, especially if they’re small. You can find the contact information of the school's athletic directors on the school websites.
To make your application stand out:
- Highlight Relevant Experience: If you have experience working with high school age students or in an educational setting, make sure to include this in your resume and cover letter. Having relevant experience can set you apart.
- Certifications: Clearly show your credentials, such as if you're certified by the Board of Certification (BOC) for the Athletic Trainer and licensed in Texas. Keep these details at the top of your resume.
- Specialty Skills: Highlight any additional skills or specialties that you have, such as experience with a particular sport, advanced skills in rehabilitative exercises, or understanding of concussion risks and treatment.
- Personality Traits: Highlight your ability to work well with teenagers, parents, and school staff. Empathy, patience, and communication skills are all important when working as an athletic trainer in a high school setting.
- Tailored Cover Letter: A cover letter gives you the chance to highlight your passion for working in a high school environment and detail any relevant experiences in a way that might not be possible in a resume.
Good luck with your job search!
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