ROLE DESCRIPTION

About the job
PORTLAND THORNS

Founded in 2012, Portland Thorns FC have set the standard for fan support and on-field success in women’s soccer since its inaugural 2013 season. One of the world’s most supported women’s soccer clubs, Portland has led the league in attendance for eight seasons and set a new club playoff attendance record last year with 25,218 fans supporting Thorns FC in the 2023 semifinal match at Providence Park. Thorns FC have won the NWSL Championship a league-record three times (2013, 2017, 2022) and finished as runners-up in 2018. The club has made the postseason a league-high nine times and has won the NWSL Shield in 2016 and 2021.

THE ROLE

We are seeking a highly motivated and skilled Performance Scientist / Specialist to join our dynamic team. The ideal candidate will be responsible for planning and delivering performance sessions that are aligned with periodization planning and individual athlete needs. This role requires a data-driven and evidence-based approach to optimize athlete preparation, conditioning, strength training, recovery, and return-to-play protocols. Additionally, you will need to build a battery of assessments that allow the development and monitoring of athlete health, wellness, and performance based on scientific evidence. This role will also involve close collaboration with current human performance staff to achieve the best outcomes for the organization and athletes.

This role offers the opportunity to build a world-class performance department and will include a clear career pathway and development plan. The successful candidate will play a crucial role in the growth and success of our athletes and the overall performance team. Travel will be required to support the team during training camps and competitive competition both within the USA and abroad.

Essential Functions

Plan and Deliver Performance Sessions: Design and implement performance sessions tailored to individual athlete needs, ensuring alignment with periodization plans.
Data-Driven Approach: Utilize performance data and evidence-based practices to inform training decisions and optimize athlete outcomes.
Athlete Preparation: Oversee and conduct warm-up and preparation routines to ready athletes for training and competition.
Conditioning and Strength Training: Develop and execute conditioning and strength training programs to enhance athletic performance.
Recovery Protocols: Implement effective recovery strategies to ensure optimal athlete recovery and readiness.
Return to Play: Develop and oversee return-to-play protocols for athletes recovering from injury, ensuring safe and effective reintegration into training and competition.
Assessment Development: Build and maintain a comprehensive battery of assessments to monitor and develop athlete health, wellness, and performance based on scientific evidence.
Collaboration: Work closely with coaches, medical staff, and other performance team members to ensure a cohesive approach to athlete development and performance. Collaborate with current human performance staff to find the best outcomes for the organization and athletes.
Monitoring and Evaluation: Continuously monitor athlete progress and adjust training plans as necessary based on performance data and feedback.

Qualifications

Experience working with soccer athletes at either the professional or collegiate level in a full-time capacity for a minimum of 2 years.
Proven track record in designing and delivering performance training programs for athletes.
Strong understanding of periodization planning and its application in athletic training.
Proficiency in using performance data and evidence-based methods to inform training decisions.
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work collaboratively within a multidisciplinary team.
Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
Passion for sports and a commitment to athlete development and performance.
Bachelor's degree in Sports Science, Exercise Physiology, Kinesiology, or a related field (Master's preferred).
Relevant certifications (e.g., CSCS, NASM, etc.).

Compensation

Competitive salary ($55-$70K plus bonus), commensurate with experience, and a generous benefits package that includes: medical, dental, vision, life and disability insurance, paid vacation, and 401k plan.

The Portland Thorns 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.