Last Updated: April 15, 2026
Apply online at academysports.com/careers or visit your nearest Academy Sports store in person. Most retail positions are filled within 5–10 business days of application.
How to Apply at Academy Sports and Outdoors
- Navigate to academysports.com/careers or the main Academy Sports careers portal.
- Select your desired location by entering a city, state, or zip code.
- Browse available positions, including Team Member, Sales Expert, Assistant Manager, and Store Director roles.
- Click on the job title to view the complete job description, responsibilities, and compensation package.
- Click “Apply” and create an online profile or sign in if you have an existing account.
- Complete the full application, including personal information, work history, availability, and required questionnaire sections.
- Review your application for accuracy and completeness before submission.
- Submit your application and expect to hear from the hiring team within 1–2 weeks via email or phone.
Academy Sports and Outdoors Job Positions and Pay Rates
| Position | Average Pay | Work Schedule |
|---|---|---|
| Team Member | $13–$17/hour | Part-time or full-time, flexible scheduling |
| Sales Expert | $15–$20/hour | Full-time or part-time, department specialization |
| Cashier | $13–$16/hour | Part-time or full-time, shift-based |
| Department Specialist | $15–$19/hour | Full-time, specialized product knowledge |
| Assistant Store Manager | $45k–$60k/year | Full-time, 45+ hours/week, leadership duties |
| Store Director | $70k–$100k/year | Full-time, salary with bonus potential |
| Buyer | $55k–$85k/year | Full-time, corporate office, merchandising focus |
| Warehouse Associate | $14–$18/hour | Full-time or part-time, shift-based |
Working at Academy Sports: What to Expect
Academy Sports and Outdoors is a leading retailer specializing in sports equipment, outdoor gear, and athletic apparel. With over 250 stores across the United States, Academy Sports serves a diverse customer base ranging from casual sports enthusiasts to serious athletes and outdoor adventurers. The company maintains a strong presence in the community and emphasizes customer service excellence and product expertise. Working at Academy Sports means joining a team passionate about sports and outdoor recreation. Team Members and Sales Experts are the backbone of store operations, handling customer interactions, product demonstrations, inventory management, and merchandising. You’ll develop deep knowledge of athletic brands, equipment specifications, and customer needs. Leadership positions, such as Assistant Store Manager and Store Director, involve managing staff, achieving sales targets, controlling expenses, and driving store profitability. The corporate buyer role focuses on merchandise selection, vendor relationships, and supply chain optimization. The work environment is energetic and customer-focused. Store layouts feature athletic departments (footwear, apparel, equipment), outdoor sections (camping, hunting, fishing), and sporting goods categories. Peak seasons include back-to-school, holiday shopping, and sports seasons. Academy Sports values teamwork, product knowledge, and customer satisfaction. The company offers competitive benefits for full-time employees, including health insurance, 401(k), employee discounts, and paid time off. Growth-minded associates often advance from store positions to regional management or corporate roles.
Frequently Asked Questions
What qualifications are required for a Team Member position at Academy Sports?
High school diploma or GED is preferred but not always required for entry-level positions. You must be at least 16 years old, reliable, customer-service oriented, and able to work flexible scheduling including weekends and evenings.
Does Academy Sports hire for seasonal positions?
Yes, Academy Sports actively hires seasonal employees during back-to-school and holiday periods. Seasonal Team Members who perform well are often retained or offered permanent positions.
What is the typical interview process?
Most interviews are conducted by an Assistant Manager or Store Manager in person at the store. The interview typically covers customer service experience, availability, and your interest in sports and outdoors. The process usually lasts 1–2 weeks from application to job offer.
Are there career advancement opportunities at Academy Sports?
Yes, Academy Sports promotes from within and offers clear advancement paths from Team Member to Sales Expert, Assistant Manager, and Store Manager. The company also values corporate career growth in buying, merchandising, and operations.
Does prior retail or sports industry experience help my application?
Previous retail experience and knowledge of sports or outdoor products are beneficial and may accelerate advancement, but are not required for entry-level positions. Customer service experience in any field strengthens your candidacy.
What benefits do full-time employees receive?
Full-time employees receive medical, dental, and vision insurance, a 401(k) plan with company match, employee discounts, paid time off, and access to training and development programs. Some stores offer additional wellness benefits.