Steve Smith joined the Fire football staff in 2014 as a graduate assistant, working with the defensive line. 

Smith moved into a full time role, working with the defensive linemen in 2015, helping the Fire finish sixth in the NAIA in sacks per game at 3.1, recording a total of 24.5 on the season. The Fire also ranked 11th in the NAIA in rushing defense at 115.1 yards per game and 21st in scoring defense (22.6). 

Up front, the Fire posted monster numbers in 2016, and saw tackle David Green named to the Victory Sports Network All-America Team. Green was third in the NAIA in sacks per game at 1.2, and chipped in nearly two tackles for loss per game. The Fire were second in the NAIA in sacks per game at 3.7, and were third against the run, holding teams to 87.6 yards per game on the ground. Additionally, SEU posted an eye-popping 33.5 sacks in nine games, and had 95 tackles for loss.

Before coming to Lakeland, Smith coached defensive ends at Ave Maria University. He also spent time as an assistant coach at the high school ranks with perennial power Warren Central in Indianapolis 

During his playing carrer, Smith was an All-Great Lakes Football Conference defensive lineman at NCAA Division II Kentucky Wesleyan. He continued his football career professionally with the Fairbanks Grizzlies and Wyoming Cavalry in the indoor ranks.