Manager, Performance Science (Youth National Teams)

U.S. Soccer Overview 

The U.S. Soccer Federation exists in service to soccer. Our aim is to ignite a national passion for the game. Because we believe that soccer is more than a sport; it is a force for good. 

We understand the importance and the power of teamwork, on and off the pitch. That is why we work closely with our Federation partners and members, to inspire, support and guide every level of the game: from the grassroots to the National Teams. We want to bring soccer into every home and every community, right across America. Because we believe that soccer can transform lives like no other sport. Soccer can represent the best of U.S. 

U.S. Soccer is in a period of significant growth, with ambitious plans for U.S. Soccer in the near and far future. We are, therefore, looking for dynamic servant leaders to join us on this journey: in service to soccer. Applicants must be able to demonstrate visionary leadership, analytical decision-making, professional flexibility, and an empathic management style that builds bold teams and delivers globally significant results. 

Position Description

The Performance Science Manager (YNT) leads the integrated delivery of Physical Performance and Sport Science services across the Youth National Team (YNT) pathway (U15–U23). The role oversees the design and implementation of aligned physical preparation and performance support processes, including gym- and field-based physical performance programming, training load monitoring, athlete profiling, performance testing, and return-to-play (RTP) physical integration. The position also manages performance systems and workflows that enhance data-informed decision-making for performance, medical, and technical staff. Expertise across both Physical Performance and Sport Science is essential.

As a member of the Integrated Performance Support Team, the Performance Science Manager collaborates closely with colleagues across the Sporting Department—including Technical Development, Goalkeeping, Analytics, Medical, Innovation, Operations, and Talent Identification—to ensure cohesive physical performance support across camps and environments.

The role drives continuous improvement in player physical development, readiness, and availability across the YNT pathway. A key priority is advancing U.S. Soccer’s Female 360 initiatives, supporting the federation’s ambition to lead globally in a female-centered performance approach.

Primary Responsibilities

• Lead the planning and delivery of integrated physical performance and sport science services across YNT camps and activities
• Oversee performance testing, physical preparation programming, recovery strategies, and applied sport science support aligned to U.S. Soccer standards and team objectives
• Recruit, onboard, develop, and manage full-time and part-time YNT Performance Science staff
• Establish and maintain relationships with clubs, universities, and international partners to support bilateral exchange of performance knowledge and player data
• Drive alignment across the U15–U23 pathway to support player progression, transitions, and long-term physical development
• Contribute to the development of performance standards, protocols, and best-practice frameworks across YNTs
• Participate in leadership performance reviews and professional development processes

Minimum Qualifications

• Master’s degree in Sport or Exercise Science, Physiology, Kinesiology, Biomechanics, or related field
• CPSS and CSCS certifications (or international equivalent)
• 5–7 years of applied experience with elite athletes, preferably in soccer
• 2–3 years of experience managing staff and concurrent high-impact projects
• Strong understanding of soccer game demands, injury mechanisms, and physical preparation
• Experience with athlete monitoring and testing technologies (force plates, GPS, dynamometry, etc.)
• Ability to clean, analyze, visualize, and communicate performance data
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills with multidisciplinary stakeholders
• Demonstrated success in cross-functional, fast-paced environments
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and athlete management systems (e.g., Teamworks)

Desired Qualifications

• PhD in Sport or Exercise Science or related field
• Bilingual (English and Spanish)
• Experience in elite women’s sport environments
• Previous experience with a professional club and/or national federation
• Advanced project or program management experience

U.S. Soccer offers a comprehensive compensation package, casual work environment, an inclusive culture, and an atmosphere for professional development.

U.S. Soccer is an equal opportunity employer that is committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion, and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any kind on the basis of race, color, sex, religion, national origin, citizenship, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability, genetic information, military status, political belief, or any other characteristic protected under the law. This policy applies to all our employment practices within our organization. We strongly encourage women, people of color, LGBTQIA, veterans, parents, and persons with disabilities to apply.