Academy Scout
Los Angeles Football Club
Full-time
On-site
Los Angeles, California, United States of America
$75,000 USD yearly
Professional Soccer, Youth Academy, Scouting & Talent ID
In order to be considered for this role, after clicking "Apply Now" above and being redirected, you must fully complete the application process on the follow-up screen.
OVERVIEW
The Los Angeles Football Club (LAFC) is an MLS soccer club serving the greater Los Angeles area. LAFC is dedicated to building a world-class soccer club that represents the diversity of Los Angeles and is committed to delivering an unrivaled experience for fans. LAFC’s ownership group is comprised of local leaders and innovators of industry with intellectual capital, financial prowess, operations expertise, and success in the fields of entertainment, sports, technology, and media. LAFC is invested in the world’s game and Los Angeles, constructing, and developing the 22,000 seat BMO Stadium and a top-flight training center on the campus of Cal-State Los Angeles.
POSITION SUMMARY
POSITION SUMMARY
LAFC is seeking a driven and detail-oriented full-time Academy Scout to lead the identification and evaluation of talent across MLS NEXT, MLS NEXT Pro, and collegiate competitions, with a focus on the Southern California region. This individual will play a critical role in building the future of LAFC and LAFC2 by identifying players that align with the Club’s game model and positional profiles.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
Talent Identification & Scouting
- Scout all MLS NEXT age groups (U13–U18), MLS NEXT Pro matches, and key college games with a focus on identifying players for LAFC Academy and LAFC2.
- Develop detailed player profiles and evaluations based on LAFC’s game model and positional profiles.
- Attend training sessions, showcases, and tournaments to assess talent and track player development over time.
Local Market Coverage
- Serve as the primary point of contact and lead scout for the Southern California region.
- Maintain strong relationships with local coaches, clubs, and schools to stay informed on emerging talent.
- Coordinate regular coverage of high-priority teams, leagues, and events in the greater Los Angeles area.
Trial & Evaluation Process
- Coordinate and manage trials for prospective players in both Academy and LAFC2 environments.
- Collaborate with coaches and performance staff to ensure a thorough and seamless evaluation process.
- Provide input and recommendations on trialist selections based on scouting insight.
Part-Time Scout Management
- Oversee a team of part-time scouts, providing direction on scouting assignments, reporting standards, and evaluation timelines.
- Organize weekly check-ins, track coverage, and ensure consistent feedback flow from the field.
- Develop coverage plans for major events and key markets outside of Los Angeles.
Reporting & Collaboration
- Maintain accurate and up-to-date reports within the Club’s scouting platform.
- Collaborate regularly with Academy and LAFC2 technical staff and coaches to align player identification efforts with team needs.
- Attend weekly internal meetings to provide updates, share insights, and contribute to recruitment strategy.
QUALIFICATIONS
- Bachelor's degree in a related field from an accredited College or University required.
- Must have at least 3 years of scouting experience, ideally within professional soccer.
- Previous experience managing or mentoring part-time scouts preferred.
- Completion of U.S. Soccer Talent ID course (or equivalent) is preferred. USSF or international scouting/license certification a plus.
- Proven experience scouting within youth, collegiate, or professional soccer environments.
- Deep understanding of player development and talent identification across various youth to pro pathways and channels.
- Commitment to LAFC’s game model and player archetypes, and ability to learn and apply them effectively.
- Exceptional organizational and communication skills, with the ability to manage multiple tasks and deadlines.
- Ability to communicate effectively, verbally and in writing, and to relate to others in a professional manner.
- Proactive approach to task execution and personal development.
- Ability to build and maintain working relationships with peers, clients, families, athletes, and serve as an extension of the club.
- Must always possess a professional demeanor with the ability to handle difficult situations in a calm manner.
- Working knowledge of Microsoft Office: including but not limited to Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook.
- Self-starter comfortable working independently in the field, with the ability to work flexible hours including nights, weekends, and holidays as needed.
- Must have a valid passport and be able to travel with the team as needed.
- Bilingual (English/Spanish) preferred but not required.
SALARY RANGE
At LAFC, we carefully consider a wide range of factors to determine a fair and equitable compensation package. The final offer amount will consider a wide range of factors that are considered in making compensation decisions including but not limited to skill sets; relevant experience and training; and other business and organizational needs. Pursuant to state and local pay disclosure guidelines, the overall range for this role is up to $75,000 per year.
HIRING PRACTICES
The preceding job description has been designed to indicate the general nature and level of work performed by employees within this classification. It is not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities, and qualifications required of employees assigned to this job.
LAFC strongly supports equal employment opportunity for all applicants regardless of race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, pregnancy, national origin, ancestry, citizenship, age, marital status, physical disability, mental disability, medical condition, sexual orientation, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by state or federal law.
Applicants for employment in the U.S. must possess work authorization, which does not require sponsorship by the employer for a visa.