Position Title: Head Coach – Battle Creek Battle Jacks of the Northwoods League
Reports To: Head of Baseball Strategy & Owner
Location: MCCU Field @ Bailey Park, Battle Creek, Michigan
Employment Type: Seasonal, Full-Time (Late May – Mid-August, yearly)
Organization: Battle Creek Battle Jacks / Northwoods League
You’re the type of coach who hates to lose more than you love to win. You believe in playing hard, competing harder, and earning every inch the blue-collar way. You’re a grinder who shows up early, stays late, and knows that winning is built on discipline, preparation, and heart. You’re a mentor as much as a manager, and you want to plant roots by building a program that grows stronger every summer, not just for one season. If that’s you, the Battle Creek Battle Jacks want you leading our dugout.
Overview:
The Battle Creek Battle Jacks owned by Southpaw Ventures Corp and a proud member of the Northwoods League, are seeking a driven, high-energy Head Coach to lead our team in the 2026 season and beyond. We want more than just a tactician; we’re looking for a leader who can mentor collegiate student-athletes, bring personality and passion to the dugout, and connect with the Battle Creek community.
While strong recruiting relationships in the collegiate baseball world and ties to Midwest programs (especially in Michigan) are a plus, they are not a requirement. Above all, we’re looking for a coach with the hunger, leadership, and commitment to build a winning culture in Battle Creek for multiple seasons.
You will have the full support of our front office and our Head of Baseball Strategy to recruit, develop, and prepare players for the next level.
Key Responsibilities:
Team Leadership & Culture
- Create and maintain a winning, blue-collar culture that demands maximum effort and competitiveness every day.
- Develop and execute game strategies, practice schedules, and training plans to ensure peak team performance.
- Serve as an on-field leader who inspires players through energy, accountability, and example.
Player Development & Recruitment
- Recruit, build and sign top eligible college players (including up to four graduated senior pitchers) with support from the Head of Baseball Strategy.
- Leverage or build relationships with college programs, ideally including Midwest and Michigan networks, to construct a competitive roster.
- Provide one-on-one coaching and mentorship to help players improve skills, approach, and mental toughness.
- Prepare players for potential professional opportunities through development-focused instruction and feedback.
Game & Season Management
- Manage in-game strategy, lineups, pitching rotations, and bullpen usage to maximize team success over the 72-game Northwoods League season.
- Oversee pre-game and post-game routines, including batting practice, warm-ups, and player recovery.
- Manage clubhouse interns.
Community & Fan Engagement
- Be the public face of the team during the season by engaging with fans, media, sponsors, and community partners.
- Participate in youth camps, clinics, and promotional events to build relationships and grow the sport locally.
Collaboration & Compliance
- Own and lead the process, with support from the Head of Baseball Strategy, to coordinate roster moves, travel, and operational needs.
- Adhere to all Northwoods League rules, policies, and player eligibility guidelines.
Qualifications:
- Previous coaching experience at the collegiate, professional, or elite amateur level. Head coaching experience preferred.
- Strong grasp of baseball fundamentals, player development, and the unique demands of a wooden-bat summer league.
- Proven ability to recruit quality talent, with a preference for candidates with Midwest/Michigan recruiting connections.
- Outstanding leadership and communication skills, with the ability to connect with players and inspire performance.
- Willingness to commit to a demanding summer schedule with extensive travel and long hours.
- Desire and commitment to lead the program for multiple seasons.
- A personality that will resonate with fans and media; competitive, passionate, and approachable.
Compensation & Benefits:
- Competitive salary commensurate with experience.
- Team-issued gear and travel expenses covered.
How to Apply:
Send your cover letter, resume, and three professional references to
[email protected] with the subject line:
Battle Jacks Head Coach Application – [Your Name].
Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.
We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, age, disability, gender identity, marital or veteran status, or any other protected class.
