The Applied Sports Scientist is responsible for collecting, analyzing, and interpreting performance data to optimize player performance, availability, and long-term athlete health. This role supports training, match preparation, recovery, and return-to-performance (RTP) processes through applied sports science methodologies.
The Applied Sports Scientist works as part of an interdisciplinary Medical & Performance team and collaborates closely with the Head Performance Coach, Team Physician, Athletic Trainers, Physical Therapists, and technical staff to ensure all performance monitoring, training recommendations, and RTP activities align with medical guidance, league protocols, and best practices in elite soccer performance.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES:
- Collect, manage, and live-monitor individual and team performance data (e.g., GPS, workload, wellness, and testing metrics) during training sessions and matches.
- Provide real-time insights and evidence-based recommendations to coaching and performance staff to inform session management and training adjustments.
- Develop, maintain, and deliver individual and team performance reports and dashboards related to training load, match demands, recovery, and performance trends.
- Support the planning and execution of performance testing, monitoring, and analysis, including team monitoring and return-to-performance assessments.
- In collaboration with the Head Performance Coach and Medical Staff, contribute to the development and communication of microcycle and mesocycle periodization strategies.
- Support player education related to performance, recovery, workload management, and injury risk reduction.
- Design and lead team warm-ups for training sessions and matches, in alignment with performance and medical objectives.
- Assist with on-field conditioning activities and end-stage return-to-performance sessions under the direction of the Head Performance Coach and Medical Staff.
- Collaborate with Athletic Trainers and Physical Therapists to modify training and monitoring strategies for injured, rehabilitating, or deconditioned players, as directed by medical staff.
- Compile and submit performance and monitoring reports as required by the NWSL and comply with all League medical, performance, and player monitoring policies and protocols.
- Attend all required league meetings, trainings, and continuing education sessions.
- Travel with the team for all training camps, home matches, and away matches as required.
- Perform other duties and projects as assigned.
QUALIFICATIONS:
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.
Required:
- Bachelor’s degree in Sports Science, Exercise Science, Kinesiology, or a related field required.
- Certified Performance and Sports Scientist (CPSS) certification required.
- Current CPR/AED/BLS certification required.
- Minimum of three (3) years of experience working with elite-level athletes (collegiate, professional, or Olympic).
Preferred:
- Master’s degree in Sports Science or a related discipline preferred.
- Preferred certifications include Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS), NASM Performance Enhancement Specialist (PES), and/or NASM Corrective Exercise Specialist (CES).
Additional:
- Demonstrated experience with GPS and athlete monitoring systems.
- Proven ability to analyze and interpret performance data and communicate findings effectively to staff and players.
- Successful completion of a pre-employment comprehensive background check is required.
- Must be legally authorized to work for any employer in the United States at the time of hire without employer sponsorship now or in the future.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:
Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds.
Must be able to walk significant distances, including up and down stairs, as required throughout the venue, as well as stand, sit, walk, bend, kneel, climb, grasp, stretch, stoop, and reach above head in conjunction with tasks.
Ability and willingness to work in all types of adverse weather conditions (i.e., heat, rain, cold, snow, wind).
SCHEDULE:
Candidates must be available to work a flexible schedule, including weekends, evenings, and holidays during home games and special events.
The information in this job description is not exhaustive of all the duties and responsibilities, nor is it intended to be an all-inclusive list of the skills and abilities required to perform the job. At the discretion of management, duties and responsibilities may change at any time due to reasonable accommodation or other business needs.
Soccer Holdings, LLC is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, class, religion, country of origin, political belief, disability, age, gender identity, sexual orientation, protected veteran status, or any other factor protected by law.
