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Sports Performance Director Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Sports Performance Intern

Schaumburg, IL · On-site

$14.75 - $19.75/hr

Company Description ETS Performance is a global sports performance organization that has provided ... Every intern will recieve free training from the director. Qualifications * Foundational knowledge ...

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Sports Performance Director information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$21.1K

$52.2K

$87.1K

How much do sports performance director jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for sports performance director in Chicago, IL is $52,222.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $41,200.00 and $56,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a sports performance director do?

A Sports Performance Director oversees athletic training programs designed to enhance athletes’ physical performance, reduce injury risk, and support overall health. They develop and implement strength and conditioning programs, coordinate with coaches and medical staff, and supervise performance staff such as trainers and nutritionists. Their role often includes monitoring athlete progress, utilizing sports science data, and ensuring best practices in training and recovery. Sports Performance Directors typically work for professional teams, colleges, or specialized training facilities.

How does a sports performance director collaborate with coaches and medical staff to optimize athlete performance?

A Sports Performance Director works closely with coaches, athletic trainers, and medical professionals to create holistic training and recovery plans tailored to each athlete. This role involves regular meetings to review performance data, discuss injury prevention strategies, and adjust training loads. Clear communication and a team-oriented mindset are crucial, as the director must balance input from various specialists to ensure athletes reach peak performance while minimizing injury risks. Collaboration also extends to educating athletes and staff about best practices in nutrition, recovery, and conditioning.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a sports performance director, and why are they important?

A Sports Performance Director needs expertise in exercise science, athletic training, and program management, often supported by a relevant degree and professional certifications such as CSCS or NASM. Familiarity with performance analysis software, athlete monitoring systems, and recovery technologies is typically required. Strong leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills help foster collaboration among coaches, athletes, and medical staff. These competencies are crucial for optimizing athlete development, ensuring safety, and achieving organizational performance goals.

What is the difference between Sports Performance Director vs Strength and Conditioning Coach?

AspectSports Performance DirectorStrength and Conditioning Coach
CredentialsTypically requires a bachelor's or master's in exercise science, sports science, or related fields; certifications like CSCS or SCCC are commonUsually holds CSCS, NSCA, or similar certifications; may have a degree in exercise science or related areas
Work EnvironmentOversees multiple teams or sports programs, develops overall performance strategies, and manages staffWorks directly with athletes to improve strength, conditioning, and performance through training sessions
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in professional, collegiate, and high school sports organizations for broad performance managementCommonly employed by sports teams, gyms, and training facilities focusing on athlete conditioning

The Sports Performance Director focuses on strategic oversight and program development across teams or organizations, while the Strength and Conditioning Coach works directly with athletes to enhance their physical performance through targeted training. Both roles require similar certifications but differ in scope and responsibilities.

What are the most commonly searched types of Sports Performance jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Sports Performance jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What are popular job titles related to Sports Performance Director jobs in Chicago, IL?

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

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

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

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Sports Performance Director jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Sports Performance Director job openings:

Infographic showing various Sports Performance Director job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 81% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 17% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $52,181 per year, or $25.1 per hour.

Sports Performance Intern

ETS Performance

Schaumburg, IL • On-site

$14.75 - $19.75/hr

Other

Posted 2 days ago

New


Job description

Company Description ETS Performance is a global sports performance organization that has provided proven training systems to thousands of youth, high school, collegiate, professional, and Olympic athletes since 2010. Built on extensive research and unique training methods, ETS combines its own philosophies with best practices from world-renowned performance specialists. Training programs are customized for individual athletes of any age, sport, or ability level, supporting both long-term development and peak performance. ETS has helped produce over 2,500 Division I, II, and III athletes, more than 200 professional athletes, and over 50,000 athletes overall. The organization continues to grow its brand and impact, attracting top-level talent and gaining national and global attention for its performance systems and community-focused mission.


Role Description The Sports Performance Intern role at ETS Performance is an on-site UNPAID internship based in Schaumburg, IL. Interns will support sports performance coaches in delivering training sessions, including setting up equipment, assisting with warm-ups, and guiding athletes through prescribed drills. You will go through a daily intern cirrucium covering a variety of topics in sports performance, buisness/social media & excel programming and much more. Daily responsibilities include observing and helping implement ETS training systems, tracking athlete data, and contributing to session planning under supervision. Interns will interact with athletes of various ages and levels, helping maintain a positive, professional, and safe training environment. Additional tasks may include facility upkeep, assisting with basic administrative duties, and participating in staff meetings and ongoing education to enhance coaching and performance knowledge. Every intern will recieve free training from the director.


Qualifications

  • 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 communication skills, including the ability to work effectively with diverse athletes, coaches, and staff in a team-oriented environment.
  • Organizational and time-management abilities to support multiple training sessions, maintain accurate records, and follow structured program guidelines.
  • Commitment to professionalism, safety, and ethical conduct, including adherence to facility standards and respect for all athletes and colleagues.
  • Enrollment in or completion of a relevant program (e.g., Exercise Science, Kinesiology, Sports Performance, Physical Education) is preferred.
  • Interest in pursuing a career in sports performance, coaching, or related fields; prior experience as an athlete, coach, or trainer is beneficial.
  • Ability to work on-site in Schaumburg, IL, including evenings and weekends as needed to support training schedules.
  • Current CPR/AED certification or willingness to obtain it prior to or shortly after starting the internship.