Head of Performance

The Utah Royals FC, Real Salt Lake (RSL), and RSL Training Academy are dedicated to the growth and success of soccer in Utah. The Utah Royals FC is committed to empowerment, while RSL represents the state with pride and fosters a winning culture. The RSL Training Academy nurtures young athletes and instills values of discipline and teamwork. Together, they are committed to inspiring the soccer culture of Utah and creating lasting impressions one winning experience at a time. 

The Head of Performance ensures that athletes achieve an optimal level of performance by applying scientific knowledge to improve a Player’s performance and prevent injuries. Responsibilities include but are not limited to the following: conduct soccer-specific physical testing, design and implement strength and conditioning programs, assist in recovery protocols, provide general nutritional guidance in collaboration with Registered Dietician, and support with Applied Sports Science. Must work in collaboration with the Team CMO/Team Physician(s), Athletic Trainers, and Physical Therapist(s) as it relates to Player’s health, safety, and well-being. 

RESPONSIBILITIES INCLUDE: 

Work in collaboration with the Team Medical Staff 

• Designs and implements safe and effective strength and conditioning programs for NWSL Players. 
• Leads and supervises sports performance training sessions. 
• Designs the daily, weekly, and monthly training plans and periodization strategies. 
• Educates and counsels Players regarding strategies to improve performance.
• Evaluates player performance through performance testing, including but not limited to, workload monitoring and body composition testing, with input from Team Medical Staff including Team Physician(s) and Registered Dietician.
• Collaborates with the Athletic Trainers and Physical Therapist(s) regarding injured, rehabilitating, and deconditioned Players to modify strength and conditioning programs with agreement from Team Medical Staff. 
• Maintains the appearance, safety, functionality, and organization of equipment in the weight facility, as well as educates and enforces weight room rules.
• Demonstrates high-level interpersonal skills required to work effectively with Players, Team Medical Staff, Coaches, other Team personnel, and League staff. 
• Compiles reports as required by the League. 
• Complies with all League medical policies and protocols. 
• Follows the codes and standards of their governing bodies and all applicable League Rules and Team policies. 
• Attends all activities/meetings/programs as required by the League. 
• Perform other duties as assigned or required by the League. 

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

Work Experiences 

• Minimum of three (3) years’ experience working with elite-level athletes (i.e., collegiate, professional, Olympic) 
• Proven ability in the following areas: strength training, Olympic lifting, plyometrics, SAQ (speed/agility/quickness) development, specific and non-specific energy system development, flexibility, recovery, and injury prevention 
• Extensive knowledge and experience in the implementation of strength and conditioning programming for elite athletes 
• Able to attend all home and away games. 
• Ability to pass a background check and become Safesport certified. 

Educational Experience 

• Minimum four (4) year college/university bachelor’s degree in Exercise Science, Kinesiology, Physical Education, or related field 

Licenses or Certifications 

• Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS) 
• CPR certification in Basic Life Support 
• Additional recommended certifications: Performance Enhancement Specialist (NASM-PES) 
• Certified Performance and Sports Scientist (CPSS) certification, USAW (USA Weightlifting), Certified Personal Trainer (CPT), Corrective Exercise Specializations (NASM-CES), and/or Exos Performance Specialist (XPS) 

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Preferred Master’s Degree in Exercise Science, Kinesiology, Physical Education, or related field 
• Soccer experience preferred 

PHYSICAL DEMANDS AND WORK ENVIRONMENT 

The job requires regularly lifting/pushing up to 50 pounds, occasional lifting/pushing/exerting heavy force (ability to demonstrate exercises, ability to act as a weightlifting spotter). The job involves running, standing, stooping, bending, lifting, pushing, typing, etc. 

Real Salt Lake provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training. 

We will ensure that individuals with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and to receive other benefits and privileges of employment. Please contact us to request accommodation. 

Note: The need may arise to revise, supplement, or rescind portions of this job description, and RSL reserves the right to do so at any time. Employees shall be required to meet the qualifications and perform the duties of any revised job description.