ROLE DESCRIPTION

Job Summary:
The Portland Timbers are seeking an experienced Mental Performance Coach with expertise in group facilitation and leadership development to collaborate with teams and individuals. The goal of this position is to ignite and sustain a culture of high performance and well-being, by unlocking unrealized potential in our players and staff, both on the field and off. This is a wonderful opportunity for someone who is enthusiastic about the science behind human performance to make a direct impact on the organization.

Job Responsibilities:
Develop a mental performance program that facilitates a collaborative culture and builds strong relationships across the Timbers health and performance team (e.g., Sport Science, Performance Nutrition, Sports Medicine, Strength & Conditioning, and Leadership)
Define and evolve the club’s Mental Performance (MP) philosophy and methodology across the Timbers organization.
Improve MP programming through evidence-based best practices and evaluative data.
Perform an in-depth review of social and emotional needs of the players and develop insight into team dynamics that impact the team functioning and chemistry. With this information, develop targeted team interventions to improve team chemistry and emotional intelligence.
Develop personalized coaching plans that integrate team building and leadership development strategies for both individuals and teams.
Deliver a variety of effective programming, including group facilitation, 1:1 consults, educational seminars, and other services for athletes throughout the club’s vertical.
Provide support (mental, emotional, etc.) for injured players or other population specific groups.
Take an active role in providing feedback and recommendations as we continue to develop both young and established athletes (amateur and professional).
Provide real-time mental performance coaching at games and practices.
Be readily accessible and available for consultations with players, coaching, medical and performance coaching staff.
When appropriate, perform individual mental health assessments, management, and triage of psychological and social problems as needed (with referral if indicated).
Provide mental health crisis support.
Track and report attendance and sessions within the Athlete Management System (AMS).

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
Required Skills:
Minimum of three (3) years of mental performance, sports psychology, executive or leadership coaching experience.
BA/BS Psychology, Sports Psychology, Neuroscience, Kinesiology or Sports Science-related degree.
Master’s Degree in Sports Psychology, Psychology, Neuroscience, Kinesiology, Sports Science, or related field.
At least one current coaching certification or accreditation surrounding sports psychology and mental performance, preferably Certified Mental Performance Consultant (CMPC). Others include ICF Certified Executive Coach, Flow Research Collective, Korn Ferry, BetterUp, etc.
Ability to travel as needed based on team schedule and needs.
Strong knowledge of sport psychology research and best practices.
Excellent written and verbal presentation skills with the ability to interface with diverse audiences.
Highly organized with the ability to multi-task in a fast-paced organization.
Excellent time management, adaptability, and flexibility.
Superior work ethic and collaborative spirit.
Strong ability to build strong working relationships with a variety of stakeholders.
Open and responsive to feedback.

Preferred Skills:
5+ years of experience in roles of similar responsibility.
Ph.D. or equivalent (e.g., Psy.D, EdD) in Sport Psychology or related field
Playing, coaching, or managing experience.
CPR/First Aid certification.
Bilingual.

Special Considerations:
This position is considered exempt from minimum wage and overtime pay requirements.
The Timbers organization reserves the right to revise or change job duties and responsibilities as the need arises. This job description does not constitute a written or implied contract of employment.

We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, age, disability, gender identity, marital or veteran status, or any other protected class.
Job Questions:

What work experience do you have that you feel is most relevant to this position? Please briefly explain.

Our players, employees and fans come from all over the world and a wide variety of backgrounds. We are seeking candidates that can authentically connect with diverse audiences. If your background and/or culture gives you unique insight we'd love to hear about it.

Are you able to legally work in the US without sponsorship?

Are you currently located in/near the Portland, Oregon area? If not do you have plans to relocate or connections to the area?