Head Coach, Marathoner in Training (MIT)

Job Description

Job Description

Overview

Marathoner in Training (MIT) is Fleet Feet Columbus’s year-round endurance training program, supporting more than 700 runners annually as they prepare for half-marathons and marathons. From first-time racers to experienced distance runners, MIT combines structured training, expert coaching, and an inclusive community to help runners achieve their goals.

Training Seasons:  

• Winter/Spring (mid-January through late April)
• Summer/Fall (mid-June through late October).

The Head Coach oversees MIT’s program strategy, operations, coaching, and participant experience. This role combines endurance coaching, volunteer leadership, community building, and partner coordination to deliver a safe, organized, and engaging training experience for runners of all paces and experience levels.

Responsibilities

Program Leadership & Operations

• Plan and oversee seasonal training programs, including calendars, training schedules, long-run progressions, workout locations, special events, and race-day logistics.
• Maintain program policies, resources, and workflows while identifying opportunities to improve operations, engagement, and program growth.
• Coordinate volunteer coach assignments, coverage, expectations, and resources to support consistent program delivery.

Coaching & Participant Experience

• Lead weekly group runs, including Wednesday evening GRIT workouts and Saturday morning long runs.
• Oversee half-marathon and marathon training plans, providing guidance on pacing, effort, mileage progression, recovery, fueling, hydration, and race preparation.
• Serve as a primary point of contact for participant questions and training challenges, helping runners navigate their journey from the first workout through race day.
• Foster a welcoming, inclusive community that celebrates progress, encourages camaraderie, and supports runners of all abilities.

Newsletter Communications & Education

• Write Tuesday participant newsletter that includes training schedules, updates, and educational communications that provide practical guidance, build confidence, and keep the community connected.
• Communicate schedules, weather-related changes, training expectations, and important program milestones clearly and consistently.
• Coordinate educational clinics and resources that support runner development and the overall training experience.

Medical Partnerships & Runner Safety

• Coordinate with OhioHealth, which provides athletic training services at Saturday workouts, to manage coverage, logistics, and participant communications.
• Partner with Fit For Life Physical Therapy to coordinate weekly educational articles, share resources, and connect participants with physical therapy support.
• Establish and communicate safety protocols for group runs, long-distance training, and adverse weather. Refer injury concerns and medical questions to appropriate healthcare professionals.

Community Partnerships & Events

• Collaborate with Fleet Feet Columbus leadership, race organizers, sponsors, and community partners to support training initiatives and race participation.
• Coordinate participant gatherings, program celebrations, and other community experiences that strengthen engagement and connection.

Approximately 10–15 hours per week on average , with heavier workloads at the start of each season and during peak training weeks, and lighter workloads toward season-end and between cycles. Availability is required for Saturday morning workouts and long runs, Wednesday evening GRIT workouts, and occasional early-morning sessions and special events.

Qualifications

• Experience coaching runners or leading group runs, ideally with half-marathon or marathon training experience.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with an ability to motivate and connect with a diverse running community.
• Excellent organizational and time-management skills, including scheduling, calendar management, and coordinating multiple priorities.
• Experience leading teams, volunteers, or community-based programs.
• An inclusive, collaborative leadership style and a genuine passion for helping runners of all abilities succeed.
• Professional relationship-building skills and sound judgment regarding participant safety.
• Availability for Saturday mornings, Wednesday evening workouts, and key training activities throughout the year.

Annual contract to be determined based on candidate 

A well-organized, safe, and engaging training program; a supported and effective coaching team; strong participant and partner relationships; and a community where runners feel prepared, encouraged, and connected from their first workout through race day.

Fleet Feet franchisees operate as independent business owners. If you apply and are hired at a Franchise location, you would be an employee of that Fleet Feet franchisee and not an employee of the Fleet Feet Corporation. We have opportunities within both our franchise locations and our Fleet Feet Corporation.