Sport Scientist and Strength & Conditioning Coach

Job Overview

The Sport Scientist and Strength & Conditioning Coach plays a critical role in optimizing player performance through the design and implementation of individualized strength and conditioning programs. This position involves a blend of sports science, injury prevention, and rehabilitation expertise to ensure players are physically prepared to meet the demands of elite soccer. The coach will work collaboratively with the Head of High Performance, medical staff, and coaching staff to monitor and manage player workloads, enhance physical performance, and support return-to-play processes. The Sport Scientist and Strength & Conditioning Coach reports directly to the Head of High Performance.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Responsibilities include but are not limited to the following: conduct soccer-specific physical testing, collect and interpret GPS and other data sources, design and implement individual strength and conditioning programs, create in collaboration with the medical department recovery protocols, collaborate with all sub departments for instance but not limited Physical Therapist, Nutritionist and Athletic Trainer to provide guidance in recovery and rehabilitation support with Applied Sports Science.
• Lead the monitoring and management of player workloads and collection of workload data (i.e. GPS), collaborating with Team Medical Staff to modify training programs as needed for Players in return-to-play phases.
• Lead, with the support of the Head of High Performance, Director of Medical, Athletic Trainers, and Physical Therapist(s), the modification and direction of strength and conditioning programs for injured, rehabilitating and deconditioning Players
• Lead the production of detailed reports and visualizations for any objective and subjective collected data
• Work in collaboration with the Team Medical Staff
• Support the Head of High Performance in the creation, evaluation, and implementation of the team physical training periodization for the Chicago Stars FC
• Design and implement -in coordination with the Head of High Performance- safe and effective strength and conditioning programs for Chicago Stars FC Players.
• Coordinate with the Head of High Performance gym-based strength and conditioning sessions and on-field conditioning and end-stage return-to-play sessions.
• Evaluate in coordination with the Head of High Performance Player performance through performance testing, including but not limited to, workload monitoring, power and strength assessments, and Player wellness, with input from Team Medical Staff including Team Physician(s) and Registered Dietician
• Work closely with the Head of High Performance to smoothly reintegrate recovered players into full training Contribute to injury prevention strategies and long-term athletic development plans
• Educate and counsel Players regarding strategies to improve performance.
• Maintain appearance, safety, functionality, and organization of equipment in the weight facility, as well as educate and enforce weight room rules.
• Demonstrate high-level interpersonal skills required to work effectively with Players, Team Medical Staff, Coaches, other Team personnel, and League staff.
• Comply with all Chicago Stars FC and NWSL League medical policies, codes of conduct, and protocols.
• Follow codes and standards of Chicago Stars FC governing bodies and all applicable League Rules and Team Policies
• Perform other duties as assigned or required by the Chicago Stars FC and NWSL
• Collaborate with the Head of High Performance, Team Medical Staff, and coaching staff to ensure alignment in player performance strategies.
• Support the development of integrated player monitoring plans using sports science principles.

Licenses or Certifications

• Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS), Strength and Conditioning Coach Certified (SCCC), or equivalent
• Certified Performance and Sports Scientist (CPSS) certification, or in the process of attaining
• CPR certification in Basic Life Support
• Additional recommended certifications: Corrective Exercise Specializations (NASM-CES)

Educational Experience

• Minimum four (4) year college/university bachelor’s degree in Exercise Science, Kinesiology, Physical Education, or related field
• Preferred: Master’s Degree in Strength and Conditioning, Sports Science, or a related field

Work Experiences

• Minimum three (3) years experience working with elite athletes (i.e. Professional soccer, NCAA Division I)
• Proven ability in the following areas: sport science, strength training, long-term athletic development, on-field performance training, energy system development, recovery, and injury prevention
• Experience with GPS and other sports science technology.
• Extensive knowledge and experience in the implementation of soccer-specific strength and conditioning programming for elite athletes
• Soccer international experience preferred