Position Summary
The Chicago White Sox is seeking an experienced Education Coordinator to join our Player Development team. The Education Coordinator is responsible for developing, implementing, and overseeing educational programs that support the personal and professional development of foreign-born players and staff. This role’s key function is to prepare players predominantly from Latin American countries to thrive in the upper levels of affiliated baseball in the United States. This key function will be carried out by designing an intentional curriculum in the lower levels of the minor leagues that provides players with the educational tools to develop into Major League players. The Education Coordinator will collaborate with a variety of departments in the White Sox organization, including minor league operations, performance, medical, mental skills, nutrition, and the coaching staff. This role is central to supporting players’ success on and off the field by equipping them with communication skills, life tools, and confidence in a new environment. This role will be based in our Spring Training Facility in Arizona.
Responsibilities
Program Development and Management
- Design and implement educational programs tailored to the needs of minor league players, including English language courses, high school degree programs, financial literacy, and life skills workshops.
- Support player development staff to ensure players’ understanding of coaching concepts, baseball fundamentals, and ultimately Individual Development Plans.
- Assist international players with language acquisition, cultural acclimation, and educational resources to support their transition to the U.S.
- Collaborate with player development staff to integrate educational initiatives into players’ daily schedules, ensuring accessibility during the baseball season.
- Educate players on the use of social media platforms, emphasizing professionalism.
- Provide guidance on risks of inappropriate content, privacy issues, and fan/media interaction.
- Collaborate with communications staff to reinforce organizational standards for online behavior.
- Provide mentorship and resources to help players balance their baseball lives with constructive activities and programs away from the field.
- Evaluate program effectiveness through assessments, surveys, and feedback to ensure continuous improvement.
Culture, Collaboration, and Communication
- Foster organizational culture of Trust, Professionalism, and Execution with International players
- Aid in player/staff education regarding cultural differences of a professional environments between Latin America and the United States.
- Educate American players on the background of their Latin teammates and coaches while creating a culture of teamwork therein
- Communicate effectively with players, coaches, and staff to promote educational opportunities
- Encourage players to embrace a lifestyle of continuous learning and a constant growth mindset.
Administrative Duties
- Lead hiring process and supervise English teachers and part-time employees at various minor league affiliates.
- Manage budgets for educational programs, third-party resources, and high school program tuition costs.
- Maintain accurate records of player participation, program outcomes, and individual player growth
- Prepare reports and presentations for leadership, highlighting the impact of educational programs on players and how they are supported developmentally on and off the field.
- Ensure compliance with MLB policies, organizational standards, and applicable educational regulations.
- Provide assistance with translation, international player travel, and player payroll/benefit explanation.
Skills and Competencies
- Cultural Sensitivity: Ability to work effectively with diverse populations, including international players and underserved communities.
- Problem-Solving: Proactive in addressing challenges and finding creative solutions to meet players’ educational needs and creative on-field development strategies.
- Leadership: Ability to inspire and motivate players and staff to prioritize education and personal growth.
- Collaboration: Strong team player with the ability to build partnerships and work cross-functionallyAdaptability: Comfortable working in a dynamic, fast-paced environment with changing schedules/priorities.
Qualifications
Required
· Bachelor’s degree in education, Sports Management, Psychology, or related field.
· 3+ years of experience in education, program coordination, preferably in the collegiate or professional sports industry
· Strong understanding of adult education principles, ESL instruction, and Latin culture
· Excellent organizational skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
· Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to connect with diverse populations, including international players and different areas of player development.
· Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and educational software platforms
· Ability to work flexible/long hours, including evenings and weekends, to accommodate the baseball season schedule.
· Ability to travel via airplane both domestically and internationally with heavy travel to Boca Chica, Dominican Republic.
· Fluency in Spanish and English.
Preferred
· Experience working with professional athletes or in a sports organization.
· Knowledge of MLB operations, minor league systems, or player development processes.
· Familiarity with online learning platforms and virtual education tools.
Chicago White Sox is an Equal Opportunity employer committed to a diverse workforce. We do not discriminate based on race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, disability, or any other status or characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.
