He was the head football coach at Louisiana Tech University from 1999 to 2006, compiling a record of 43–52 in eight seasons.
Bicknell spent the 2013 season as offensive line coach for the NFL's Pittsburgh Steelers before being fired on January 3, 2014.
On December 12, 2007, Bicknell was hired by Texas Tech to serve as their offensive line coach.
However, when Boston College offensive line coach Jim Turner resigned that August, Bicknell left the Red Raiders to rejoin BC.
Bicknell also oversaw the development of Anthony Castonzo, the first true freshman to start on the BC offensive line since 1997 and a member of the All-ACC freshman team.