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Performance Science Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Akuna Capital

Performance Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

Required : • BS/MS/PhD in technical field - Computer Science, Math, Physics, Engineering • ... for testing performance • Highly collaborative in nature - excellent written and verbal ...

Akuna Capital

Performance Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

Required : • BS/MS/PhD in technical field - Computer Science, Math, Physics, Engineering • ... for testing performance • Highly collaborative in nature - excellent written and verbal ...

Akuna Capital

Performance Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$145K/yr

... Science, Math, Physics, Engineering * Strong C++ or Python programming background with demonstrated experience developing performant, scalable applications * Experience analyzing and tuning operating ...

Akuna Capital

Performance Engineer

Chicago, IL

$145K/yr

... Science, Math, Physics, Engineering * Strong C++ or Python programming background with demonstrated experience developing performant, scalable applications * Experience analyzing and tuning operating ...

ETS Performance

Sports Performance Intern

Schaumburg, IL · On-site

$14.75 - $19.75/hr

Foundational knowledge of strength and conditioning, exercise science, or athletic performance, with the ability to apply basic training principles in a practical setting. * Strong interpersonal and ...

IMC B.V.

Graduate Performance Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$200 - $250/hr

... Computer Science, Engineering, or a related technology field. * Proficiency in at least one ... performance culture, and our commitment to giving back. From entering dynamic new markets to ...

Hi-Tech Solutions

Software Performance Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$144K/yr

The Software Performance Engineer ensures software is adhering to quality standards. The position ... Qualifications Bachelor's or Master's Degree in computer science and 3-5 years' professional ...

Hi-Tech Solutions

Software Performance Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$144K/yr

The Software Performance Engineer ensures software is adhering to quality standards. The position ... Bachelor's or Masters Degree in computer science and 3-5 years professional software development ...

Hi-Tech Solutions

Software Performance Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$144K/yr

The Software Performance Engineer ensures software is adhering to quality standards. The position ... Bachelor's or Masters Degree in computer science and 3-5 years professional software development ...

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All JobsPerformance Science JobsPerformance Science Jobs in Chicago, IL

Performance Science information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$41.2K

$102.5K

$158.1K

How much do performance science jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for performance science in Chicago, IL is $102,528.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $67,500.00 and $129,800.00 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 Chicago, IL?

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

What job categories do people searching Performance Science jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Performance Science jobs in Chicago, IL are:

Performance Science jobs near you
Infographic showing various Performance Science job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 86% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $102,528 per year, or $49.3 per hour.

Performance Engineer

Akuna Capital

Chicago, IL • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 19 days ago

Job description

Job Summary:
Akuna Capital is an innovative trading firm focused on collaboration and cutting-edge technology. They are seeking a Performance Engineer to enhance software and hardware performance, contributing to their trading engine and collaborating with various teams to optimize systems and strategies.
Responsibilities:
• Contribute to the design and implementation of our trading engine by increasing its performance with projects such as benchmarking systems, evaluating new devices, latency, and throughput analysis
• Develop tools and applications for benchmarking new devices and software
• Assist with performance troubleshooting and identify key opportunities for improvement
• Use a data driven approach to collaborate with relevant Trading, Quant, and Technology teams to expand and improve our systems, footprint, and latency across different strategies and exchanges
• Review and analyze how we leverage our proprietary systems, identifying potential bottlenecks and considering how we can improve our technology stack to better our trading success
Qualifications:
Required:
• BS/MS/PhD in technical field - Computer Science, Math, Physics, Engineering
• Strong C++ or Python programming background with demonstrated experience developing performant, scalable applications
• Experience analyzing and tuning operating systems, compilers, networking, IO subsystems, or accelerators
• Exposure to statistical and experimental methods and tools for testing performance
• Highly collaborative in nature - excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to work on cross-functional teams including Trading, Development, IT, and Quant
• The ability to react quickly and accurately to rapidly changing market conditions, including the ability to quickly and accurately respond and/or solve math and coding problems are essential functions of the role
Company:
Akuna Capital is a proprietary trading firm specializing in derivatives market-making. Founded in 2011, the company is headquartered in Chicago, USA, with a team of 201-500 employees. The company is currently Growth Stage.

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