Team Operations - Head of Sports Science

TITLE: Academy Head of Sports Science  DEPARTMENT: Team Operations  REPORTS TO: Head of Sports Science  FLSA: Full-Time, Salaried, Exempt   WHAT SETS YOU APART The Academy Head of Sports Science uses player health and performance data to safeguard players' health and safety and improve their on-field performance. Drawing on expertise across sports science, data science, and data visualization, this role facilitates conversations, generates insights, and develops programming for players in the performance, injury-prevention, medical, and return-to-play areas. Responsibilities include, but are not limited to, collecting and presenting data on player health and performance; conducting testing where certified or licensed to do so; and managing and integrating performance and medical datasets.   ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES Manage all incoming sports science data streams, including in-training and in-game tracking, and develop reporting structures around data collection. Integrate performance and medical datasets, ensuring data quality and consistency across sources. Collect, analyze, and present data on player health and performance, and provide clear feedback to players and staff. Design, modify, and apply assessment protocols to analyze the demands of the sport and the capabilities of Academy players. Evaluate player performance through performance testing, workload monitoring, and other team-specific metrics, within the scope of certification. Manage, design, and implement weight-room physical testing protocols within the scope of certification. Collaborate with Strength and Conditioning teammates to design and administer individualized pre-training activation protocols and in-season strength training sessions. Educate and counsel players on strategies to improve performance, within the scope of practice. Work with Strength and Conditioning and the wider department to deliver activation and regeneration sessions as needed. Support Strength and Conditioning with on-field warm-ups for team training sessions when required. Support Strength and Conditioning and Club Medical Staff with end-stage rehabilitation sessions when required. Maintain the appearance and organization of equipment in the weight facility, and educate players on and enforce weight-room rules. Other duties as assigned.   QUALIFICATIONS It's never just a job at Orlando City SC. It's a way of life. We live and breathe soccer, and we believe each role is as unique as the person who fills it. To join our team, you will also bring the following qualifications:   Bachelor's degree in Exercise Science, Sports Science, or a related field required; Master's or Ph.D. in Sports Science highly preferred. Minimum of 3 years of professional or college experience, preferably within MLS or another elite-level soccer organization. Certified Performance and Sport Scientist (CPSS) credential from the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA) required. Experience using sports science technologies such as GPS or player-tracking devices, heart-rate monitoring, force-plate technology, and sprint-profiling tools. Demonstrated ability to communicate effectively across a variety of media and with diverse audiences. Proficiency in Microsoft applications and data visualization platforms. Bilingual skills are a plus. Ability to work flexible hours, including nights, weekends, and holidays. Ability to attain and maintain SafeSport certification. Ability to pass a background check.