Human Performance Exercise Science Jobs in California

POSITION SUMMARY

The Pro Player Pathway Performance Coach will be working specifically within the LAFC Academy leading the process for the U18 MLS-Next Pro Pathway Team. This is a hands-on performance coaching role centered around the player development pathway, specifically working directly with Academy athletes to maximize their physical potential to compete at the at highest levels of the game, and to oversee their progression toward the Second (LAFC 2 MLS-Next Pro) team and the First (LAFC MLS) team. 

This is a highly collaborative role within a fast-paced data-driven performance environment where you'll be working closely with coaching, sports science, and medical staff. Thus, the ideal candidate is someone looking to grow within a professional soccer organization and contribute meaningfully to the development of elite young players.

This role reports to the Performance Manager.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

Player Development & On-Field Performance Coaching

• Design and deliver strength & conditioning programs for Academy players aligned with the club's development model.
• Lead session-specific preparation, activation, and recovery protocols in coordination with Academy Head Coaches.
• Deliver on-field performance coaching including position-specific speed, movement skills, and technical concepts.
• Support and implement return-to-play training protocols in collaboration with medical and performance staff.

Performance Science & Data

• Manage and implement physical testing protocols in the weight room and on the field.
• Oversee all data streams, including in-training GPS tracking and match data.
• Monitor training loads, evaluate player performance metrics, and provide actionable insights to coaching and performance staff.
• Utilize sports science technologies (e.g., Catapult GPS, VALD Performance, FirstBeat) to inform training and recovery decisions.
• Maintain accurate, up-to-date records of performance metrics and training loads.

Collaboration & Education

• Collaborate with the Performance Manager on team and individual periodization planning in alignment with club methodology.
• Collaborate with club leadership and coaching staff to support the development and movement of high-potential players through the club pathway, including load planning and integration support as players transition into the LAFC 2 environment.
• Partner with an integrated performance and medical staff - spanning Academy through the First Team - in the day-to-day management of individual athletes, benefiting from constant cross-level collaboration, shared learning, and direct exposure to staff and methodologies at every tier of the club.
• Educate athletes and staff on evidence-based principles related to performance, recovery, and injury prevention.
• Stay current with sports science research and continuously apply best practices.
• Contribute to the club's data-driven approach to athlete development and performance enhancement.

Other duties as assigned by Supervisor/Management.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor's degree in Exercise Science, Kinesiology, Physical Education, or a related field from an accredited institution required. Master's Degree in Exercise Science, Kinesiology, Physical Education, or related field preferred.
• Minimum 3 years of experience in a strength & conditioning role within an elite or professional sports environment.
• Active certification from the NSCA (CSCS), UKSCA, ASCA, or an equivalent internationally recognized Strength & Conditioning certification.
• Current CPR/AED certification required.
• Previous experience working as part of a multi-disciplinary sports medicine and sports science department is a plus.
• Experience in utilizing sports science technologies, such as Catapult GPS, FirstBeat, and Vald Performance.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills; ability to build trust with players and staff across all levels.
• Proficiency in English - verbal and written - with the ability to clearly communicate data-driven insights to technical audiences.
• Valid U.S. passport or ability to obtain one; must be able to travel with the team as required.
• Ability to handle sensitive and confidential information with discretion.
• Bilingual in English and Spanish preferred.
• Flexible schedule with the ability to work nights, weekends, and holidays as the event calendar requires.

SALARY RANGE 

At LAFC, we carefully consider a wide range of factors to determine a fair and equitable compensation package. The final offer amount will consider a wide range of factors that are considered in making compensation decisions including, but not limited to skill sets; relevant experience and training. Pursuant to state and local pay disclosure guidelines, the compensation range for this role is $72,000 - $85,000 per year.