How Can I Get a Job with the Special Olympics?

If you are studying for a Sports Management Degree, finding a job with the Special Olympics could be a dream come true. Special Olympics Incorporated is an international entity that provides sports training to individuals of all ages with physical and intellectual disabilities. The entity operates in more than 170 countries and offers competitive events throughout the year for almost 5 million athletes.

While competition and training can change someone’s life, the Special Olympics Inc. also changes lives by supports different health initiatives run at a national level. The purpose of the support is to help increase government funding for all-inclusive health programs that focused on improving the health and well-being of people with intellectual disabilities. If you would like to work for an organization making differences globally, here is what you need to know about getting a job with SOI:

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Types of SOI Jobs Available

The key to finding your role within an organization is to first see if available positions with the company align with the career path that you have chosen. Fortunately for you, earning a Sports Management degree will prepare you for a number of different careers available at SOI. Some of the various titles that you can apply for if you have adequate qualifications include:

  • Special Events Consultant
  • Direct Support Professional
  • Director of Special Events
  • Manager of Volunteer Engagement
  • Events Engagement Coordinator
  • Administration for Volunteer Engagement

Where Are the Jobs Located?

If some of the titles spark an interest and you are on your way to earning your Sports Management degree, it’s important to discover where the jobs are located. While Special Olympics Inc. is an international company, not all offices perform the same tasks. The great thing about SOI is that there are jobs inside and outside of the United States.

If you had hopes of exploring the world while pursuing a career, there are places that you can start a professional life while you immerse yourself in a new culture. If you would prefer to stay in the United States, there are many different offices in each state with vast opportunities. Recruiting.com shares some locations where professional opportunities are available, which include:

  • Washington, DC
  • San Diego, CA
  • Santa Ana, CA
  • Honolulu, HI
  • Montgomery, AL
  • Phoenix, AZ
  • Las Vegas, NV

Some of the many opportunities available overseas are located in the following regions:

  • Zambia
  • Zimbabwe
  • Ghana
  • Fiji
  • Malaysia
  • Thailand
  • Vietnam
  • Australia
  • Korea
  • Hong Kong
  • China
  • Denmark
  • Germany
  • Austria

What Type of Qualifications Do You Need to Get a Job?

The qualifications that you need to become an employee of the SOI dependent upon the title. In most management positions and leadership roles, you need to possess a minimum of a Bachelor’s degree. You will also be expected to have an advanced knowledge of business administration along with key skills and abilities pertaining to the role. In some roles, you will also be expected to meet physical requirements so that you can perform the duties of your title.

The application process for getting a job with Special Olympics is much like the process with other employers. You will need to review the duties, the qualifications, and then fill out the online application by attaching your resume. Make sure you highlight your passion for supporting health initiatives for people with intellectual abilities as you apply to get a job with the Special Olympics.

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