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Performance Science Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Red Bull

Skill Acquisition Coach

Santa Monica, CA · On-site

$85K - $128K/yr

This role bridges the gap between training and in-field performance by applying the science of motor learning and skill acquisition to performance problem solving. The Skill Acquisition Coach will ...

10x Science (YC W26)

Founding Engineer

Menlo Park, CA · On-site

As a Founding Engineer, you will build core modules for a high-performance scientific computing platform, working closely with the founding team to create production software that significantly ...

Red Bull

Skill Acquisition Coach

Santa Monica, CA

$85K - $128K/yr

This role bridges the gap between training and in-field performance by applying the science of motor learning and skill acquisition to performance problem solving. The Skill Acquisition Coach will ...

NE-NERSC

HPC/AI Performance Specialist

Bodega Bay, CA · On-site

Enabling advanced science at scale on supercomputers. In 2027, NERSC will deploy its next ... Provide performance engineering expertise, training, and user support. * Stay current with AI/HPC ...

Astera Labs

Performance Engineer

San Jose, CA

Senior Performance Engineer Location: San Jose, CA (On-site) Role Overview Astera Labs is a hyper ... Bachelor's degree in Computer Engineering, Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or a related ...

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All JobsPerformance Science JobsPerformance Science Jobs in California

Performance Science information

See California salary details

$39.5K

$98.2K

$151.5K

How much do performance science jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average yearly pay for performance science in California is $98,224.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $64,600.00 and $124,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is performance science?

Performance science is an interdisciplinary field that studies the factors influencing high-level performance in areas such as sports, the arts, business, and other domains. It combines insights from psychology, physiology, neuroscience, and other disciplines to understand and improve how individuals and teams perform under various conditions. Performance scientists often work to enhance training methods, optimize mental and physical preparation, and develop strategies for achieving peak performance. Their work can involve research, coaching, and collaboration with professionals to implement evidence-based practices.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a performance scientist?

To thrive as a Performance Scientist, you typically need a strong background in exercise science, physiology, data analysis, and often a related degree such as sports science or kinesiology. Familiarity with performance monitoring tools, data collection software, and certifications like CSCS (Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist) are commonly required. Excellent communication, problem-solving, and collaboration skills help you translate data into actionable insights for athletes and coaches. These skills are crucial for optimizing athletic performance, preventing injuries, and supporting evidence-based training decisions.

What are some typical challenges faced by professionals working in performance science, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in Performance Science often encounter challenges such as translating complex data into actionable insights for athletes or teams, managing the expectations of coaches and stakeholders, and staying current with evolving technologies and research. Addressing these challenges requires strong communication skills, continuous professional development, and the ability to work collaboratively within multidisciplinary teams. Building trust with athletes and staff and presenting data in a clear, practical manner are also key to ensuring that scientific recommendations are successfully implemented.

What is the difference between Performance Science vs Sports Scientist?

AspectPerformance ScienceSports Scientist
Required CredentialsDegree in exercise science, sports science, or related fields; certifications in performance or strength coachingDegree in sports science, exercise physiology, or related fields; certifications in sports performance
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, athletic training facilities, performance centersSports teams, athletic clubs, research institutions
Employer & Industry UsageUsed by sports organizations, research institutions, and performance centersCommonly employed by sports teams, universities, and sports medicine clinics

Performance Science and Sports Scientist roles overlap in credentials and work environments, but Performance Science often emphasizes research and data analysis to optimize athletic performance, while Sports Scientists focus more on direct athlete testing and training programs. Both roles are vital in sports performance but differ slightly in scope and application.

What can you do with a performance science degree?

A performance science degree prepares individuals for careers in optimizing human performance across sports, health, and workplace settings. Graduates can work as performance analysts, sports scientists, fitness trainers, or research specialists, often utilizing data analysis, biomechanics, and physiology skills. Certification and experience in related tools or methodologies can enhance job prospects.

What does a performance science do?

A performance science professional studies and applies scientific principles to improve human performance in areas such as sports, work, or daily activities. They analyze data, develop training protocols, and use tools like biomechanics, physiology, and psychology to optimize performance and recovery.

What are popular job titles related to Performance Science jobs in California?

For Performance Science jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Performance Science jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Performance Science jobs in California are:

Performance Science jobs near you
Infographic showing various Performance Science job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 90% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 82% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 16% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $98,224 per year, or $47.2 per hour.

Pro Player Pathway Performance Coach

Los Angeles Football Club

Los Angeles, CA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 3 days ago

Job description

OVERVIEW
The Los Angeles Football Club (LAFC) is an MLS soccer club serving the greater Los Angeles area. LAFC is dedicated to building a world-class soccer club that represents the diversity of Los Angeles and is committed to delivering an unrivaled experience for fans. LAFC's ownership group is comprised of local leaders and innovators of industry with intellectual capital, financial prowess, operations expertise, and success in the fields of entertainment, sports, technology, and media. LAFC is invested in the world's game and Los Angeles, constructing, and developing the 22,000 seat BMO Stadium and a top-flight training center on the campus of Cal-State Los Angeles.
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.
HIRING PRACTICES
The preceding job description has been designed to indicate the general nature and level of work performed by employees within this classification. It is not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities, and qualifications required of employees assigned to this job.
LAFC strongly supports equal employment opportunity for all applicants regardless of race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, pregnancy, national origin, ancestry, citizenship, age, marital status, physical disability, mental disability, medical condition, sexual orientation, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by state or federal law.
Applicants for employment in the U.S. must possess work authorization, which does not require sponsorship by the employer for a visa.

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