Cornell University is an NCAA Division I institution and a member of the Ivy League. The
university fields teams in 37 intercollegiate sports and provides a comprehensive physical
education program. The university is committed to the following: excellence in academics and
athletics; gender equity and diversity in its programs; a well-balanced and broad-based
intercollegiate athletics program. The Department of Athletics & Physical Education offers a
diverse program of intercollegiate athletics competition, physical education, recreational
services, intramural sports competition, and outdoor education; in addition, the department
provides Wellness programs for Cornell faculty and staff and operates fitness centers for the
entire Cornell community.
The Equipment Operations unit supports the day-to-day operations of 37 varsity sports, physical
education, wellness, and faculty/staff recreation. The unit is responsible for the purchase,
maintenance, and repair of equipment, the issuing of team gear and recreational equipment, and
the laundering of uniforms and workout apparel. The Equipment Operations unit works to
support the Department’s philosophy of a sound mind and sound body.
The Director of Equipment Operations plays a critical role in the oversight of all operations
associated with equipment and apparel needs for the Department of Athletics and Physical
Education. This position facilities the ordering, issuing, tracking, and storing of a large volume
of sports equipment, apparel, shoes, and uniforms, totaling up to approximately $750K worth of
products each year. In addition, the Director of Equipment Operations supervises a staff of union
employees and several student workers, overseeing the day-to-day activities to ensure smooth
and efficient operations. This role works to guarantee that the 1,100 student-athletes on 37
varsity sports teams and the hundreds of Cornell students, faculty, and staff that participate in
Wellness and Recreational Services activities have the necessary supplies and equipment to
compete and/or participate successfully and safely.
Success Factors
A high degree of organization and attention to detail, as well as a thorough understanding
of sports equipment, apparel, and shoe features and characteristics.
The ability to communicate and interact effectively with many constituencies – student-
athletes, other students, coaches, faculty, staff, and product manufacturers/vendors.
Strong supervisory skills to effectively manage and motivate the equipment staff,
including the ability to act independently and display sound judgement in problem
solving.
Required Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree and at least two years of equipment management experience, or an
equivalent combination of education/experience.
Experience ordering, issuing, fitting, repairing, and storing athletics equipment, apparel,
and shoes.
Ability to discern between wants and needs and to make difficult decisions based on
legitimate needs, safety considerations, and financial constraints.
Working knowledge of NCAA rules and regulations.
Proficiency with Microsoft Office (Word, Excel).
AEMA certification, or the ability to become certified within one year of hiring.
Preferred Qualifications
Experience assisting with or managing equipment operations at the NCAA Division I
level.
Familiarity with Nike products.
Experience using Helmet Tracker software or other inventory management software
programs.
Working knowledge of Ivy League rules and regulations.
Other Information
As part of the university’s comprehensive vaccination program, all Cornell employees are
required to have and provide proof of an FDA- or WHO-authorized or approved COVID-
19 primary vaccination or have obtained a university-approved disability/medical or
religious exemption, regardless of their role and work location.
This position is not eligible for visa sponsorship.
Application
Application must be submitted online at
https://cornell.wd1.myworkdayjobs.com/CornellCareerPage/job/Ithaca-Main-Campus/Director-
of-Equipment-Operations_WDR-00036052-1