Coaches and Scouts

People in this profession focus on instructing, speaking, and using learning strategies to help individuals and teams improve. Day-to-day activities revolve around coaching and developing others, building cohesive teams, and planning and scheduling activities. Coaches must make critical decisions, solve problems, and judge the qualities of people and performances to prepare athletes for competition. Scouts evaluate athletes' strengths and weaknesses to recruit new talent.

This work requires strong social skills and a leadership orientation. Success in this field relies on dependability, self-confidence, cooperation, and high stress tolerance. Professionals must communicate effectively with supervisors, peers, and subordinates while maintaining self-control and perseverance. Key knowledge areas include education and training, psychology, administration, and public safety.

Entering this field typically requires a bachelor's degree along with several years of related experience. Students often prepare by majoring in sports, kinesiology, and physical education/fitness. Other relevant college majors include clinical, counseling, and applied psychology, as well as teacher education and professional development in specific subject areas.

Some states list a license for this work. Additionally, professionals can earn specialized certifications depending on their sport. Examples of credentials include the Safety Training for Swim Coaches from the American Red Cross, the Strength and Conditioning Coach Certified credential, the Certified Triathlon Coach designation, and various riding instructor certifications from the American Riding Instructors Association or the Certified Horsemanship Association.

The median annual pay for coaches and scouts was $47,320 in 2025. Earnings vary significantly based on experience, level, and location; the lowest 10 percent of workers earn less than $28,790, while the highest 10 percent earn more than $98,860.

Employment in this field is projected to grow by 6.1 percent from 2025 to 2035, which is faster than the average for all occupations. This growth is expected to result in 36,400 job openings each year.