Graduate Assistant Athletic Operations in Emporia, KS for Emporia State University

Emporia State University’s Intercollegiate Athletics department is hiring two Athletic Operations Graduate Assistants for the 2026-2027 academic year in Emporia, Kansas. Per the June 17, 2026, announcement, the roles provide a $12,000 stipend for the full academic year or $6,000 for a single semester.

What are the requirements for the Emporia State graduate assistantship?

Applicants must hold a four-year bachelor’s degree and be enrolled in a graduate program at Emporia State University. The department requires candidates to have completed at least one semester of volunteering or working in a collegiate athletic department.

This prior experience must specifically involve game operations or field and facility preparation and maintenance. Selected assistants must follow Emporia State University Graduate Student Guidelines.

Did You Know? The graduate assistant role includes managing game replay systems for five specific sports: football, volleyball, basketball, baseball, and softball.

What are the responsibilities of an Athletic Operations Graduate Assistant?

The position reports to the Associate Athletic Director of Operations and Event Management. Primary duties include the preparation and supervision of all home athletic games to ensure seamless execution.

Staff will manage facility equipment, including goals, locker rooms, and bleachers, and operate small machinery for field maintenance. The role also involves greeting visiting teams and officials and training student workers.

Expert Insight: Samantha Carter notes that the combination of facility maintenance and replay management provides a broad administrative foundation. This dual exposure to both the physical plant and the technical side of game-day operations is a standard entry point for collegiate sports administrators.

How will the role impact game-day operations?

Assistants are tasked with the logistical coordination of home events and facility rentals. They serve as the primary point of contact for guest relations, escorting officials and opposing teams to designated areas.

Meet Emporia State University – Athletic Training

The schedule requires working evenings and weekends. Some travel may be required to fulfill departmental duties as assigned by the Associate Athletic Director.

What may happen next for applicants?

Qualified candidates who meet the enrollment and experience criteria could move into the interview phase for the two available openings. If hired, they may begin their duties for the 2026-2027 academic term.

Successful applicants are likely to integrate into the Intercollegiate Athletics department to provide hands-on administrative support. This could lead to a deeper understanding of facility and event management within the collegiate sector.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the compensation for the position?
The stipend is $12,000 for the combined fall and spring semesters, or $6,000 for a single semester.

How many positions are available?
There are two openings available for the 2026-2027 academic year.

Who does the Graduate Assistant report to?
The position reports to the Associate Athletic Director of Operations and Event Management.

Would you consider a graduate assistantship as a starting point for a career in sports administration?