The Los Angeles Sparks are seeking a dynamic and innovative Sports Scientist to join the Health and Performance Department. This role is central to supporting athlete health, performance, and readiness throughout the WNBA season and offseason. The Sports Scientist will lead data-driven performance monitoring, collaborate across disciplines, and integrate cutting-edge sport science practices to maximize player availability and competitive performance. This position reports to the Director of Health & Performance and General Manager.
PRINCIPAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
Performance Monitoring and Analysis
- Implement and manage athlete monitoring systems (Kinexon) to assess load during practices and games
- Track, research and interpret key performance indicators (workload, recovery, readiness, movement efficiency)
- Develop concise, actionable reports and dashboards for coaching, medical, and performance staff according to needs and goals of respective departments
- Monitor longitudinal trends in player health, fatigue, and performance to inform
Applied Sports Science and Testing
- Design and conduct performance testing using protocols (strength, power, speed, conditioning, and movement quality) in conjunction with strength coach and medical staff
- Utilize technologies such as force plates, dynamometers, and speed gates to evaluate athlete profiles
- Support individualized programming through evidence-based insights and collaboration with strength and conditioning staff
Recovery and Wellness
- Monitor player recovery and wellness metrics including sleep, hydration, and recovery modalities
- Provide data-informed recommendations for optimizing rest, recovery, and readiness
- Integrate recovery tools and technology to enhance daily athlete management
Collaboration and Communications
- Work closely with athletic trainers, physical therapists, strength coaches, dieticians, and coaching staff to align training and recovery strategies
- Communicate sport science findings in clear, athlete-friendly language when appropriate
- Participate in daily interdisciplinary meetings to support player friendly management and decision-making
Education and Innovation
- Stay current with emerging trends and research in sport science, biomechanics, and performance analytics
- Evaluate new technologies and methodologies to advance the Sparks’ high-performance environment
- Educate Sparks athletes and staff on sport science initiatives and integration
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:
- Proficiency with data analysis and visualization software (Microsoft Suite, R/Python, ggplot2/plotly, SQL preferred)
- Familiarity with force plate systems, IMU analytics, and performance testing hardware/software
- Strong ability to interpret complex data and translate it into actionable strategies
- Utilize data to inform clinical decision-making process
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
- Collaborative, team-oriented approach with strong problem-solving ability
- Adaptable, organized, and able to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment
MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:
Education & Certification
- Master’s degree in Sport Science, Exercise Physiology, Biomechanics, or related field
- Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS) or equivalent certification preferred
- CPR and First Aid certification required
Experience
- Minimum 3 years of applied sports science experience in elite or professional sport – basketball experience strongly preferred
- Proven success implementing athlete monitoring system (e.g., Kinexon)
- Experience collaborating with and providing actionable reports for the multidisciplinary teams in a high-performance setting
Compensation commensurate with experience; minimum starting salary $70,000
This job description in no way states or implies that these are the only duties to be performed by the employee in this position. It is not intended to give all the details or a step-by-step account of the way each procedure or task is performed. The incumbent is expected to perform other duties necessary for the effective operation of the department.
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.
We will ensure that individuals with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform critical job functions, and to receive other benefits and privileges of employment. Please contact us to request accommodation.
