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Sports Performance Research Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Research, Innovation, & Program Development * Stay current with sport psychology and mental performance research to inform program design and delivery. * Develop assessment tools and metrics to ...

Adaptive Thinking, Human Performance, Performance Improvements, Researching, Training and Education ... Provides information about cognitive performance, exercise and sports psychology factors in sports ...

Adaptive Thinking, Human Performance, Performance Improvements, Researching, Training and Education ... Provides information about cognitive performance, exercise and sports psychology factors in sports ...

Physical Therapist

Monterey, CA ยท On-site

$1.8K - $2.3K/wk

... related to Sports Medicine (SM), injury mitigation, rehabilitation, and relevant human performance research. * Serve as an advisor to the unit POTFF, Medical and/or Command Leadership for ...

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Sports Performance Research information

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$8

$26

$52

How much do sports performance research jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for sports performance research in California is $26.75, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.95 and $31.31 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is sports performance research?

Sports performance research is the scientific study of factors that influence athletic performance, including physiology, biomechanics, psychology, nutrition, and technology. Researchers in this field aim to understand how athletes can train more effectively, prevent injuries, and optimize their abilities. This research often involves testing new training methods, analyzing movement patterns, and developing strategies to improve both individual and team performance. The findings contribute to advancements in coaching, sports medicine, and athlete development.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in sports performance research, and why are they important?

To thrive in Sports Performance Research, you need a solid background in exercise science, physiology, or a related field, often supported by an advanced degree. Familiarity with data analysis tools, biomechanical measurement systems, and relevant certifications such as CSCS or ACSM are highly valuable. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for interpreting data and collaborating with athletes and coaches. These skills ensure accurate research outcomes, practical application of findings, and ongoing improvement in athletic performance.

What are the main challenges faced when collaborating with coaches and athletes in a sports performance research role?

One of the main challenges in Sports Performance Research is effectively communicating complex data and findings to coaches and athletes, who may not have a scientific background. Building trust and ensuring your research is practical and actionable is essential, as stakeholders often look for immediate, tangible benefits. Additionally, balancing rigorous scientific methodology with the fast-paced, results-driven environment of sports can be demanding. Collaborators may have tight schedules or varying priorities, so being adaptable and proactive in your communication is key to driving impactful results.

What is the difference between Sports Performance Research vs Sports Scientist?

AspectSports Performance ResearchSports Scientist
CredentialsAdvanced degrees in sports science, research certificationsDegree in sports science, exercise physiology, or related field
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, universities, sports organizationsClinics, sports teams, fitness centers
Employer & IndustryAcademic institutions, research firms, sports organizationsSports teams, health clinics, fitness industry
Primary FocusConducting research to improve athletic performanceApplying scientific principles to optimize athlete performance

Sports Performance Research primarily focuses on conducting scientific studies to understand and improve athletic performance, often working in research settings. In contrast, Sports Scientists apply scientific knowledge directly to athletes and teams to enhance performance through practical interventions. Both roles require similar credentials but differ in their work environment and primary objectives.

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

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

Infographic showing various Sports Performance Research job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 81% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 17% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $55,646 per year, or $26.8 per hour.

Sports Performance & Fitness Coach

San Francisco, CA โ€ข On-site

The Urban School of San Francisco
Elementary and Secondary Schoolsย โ€ขย 51 - 200 employees

$45 - $57.50/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 22 days ago


Job description

Job Title: Sports Performance & Fitness Coach

Classification: Limited Part-time, Non-exempt, Instructional Support, StaffReporting to: Athletic DirectorSchedule - School Year: 36 weeks at 13 hours per week. Anticipated schedule is Monday through Thursday, 3:00 PM – 5:30 PM, and Friday, 7:00 AM – 8:30 AM & 3:00 PM – 4:30 PM.Summer: 6 weeks at 4 hours per week (schedule to be determined).Compensation: $45.00 - $57.50/hour 

Urban School of San Francisco seeks a Sports Performance & Fitness Coach to help shape an inclusive, student-centered approach to strength, movement, and wellness.

At Urban, we take fitness seriously—and we take everyone seriously. This role sits at the intersection of athletic performance and personal development, supporting student-athletes competing at the highest level alongside students building confidence, agency, and lifelong habits around movement. We hold both with equal rigor. Our approach is demanding and inclusive, outcome-driven and student-centered.

Three Components of the Role:

1. Team Athletics Partner with coaching staff to design and deliver strength, conditioning, and movement programming for competitive teams. You understand periodization, injury prevention, and what it takes to help a team peak at the right moment.

2. Group Fitness Classes Lead dynamic, high-energy classes that meet students where they are—from beginners to varsity athletes. You build community through movement and know how to read a room and push it.

3. Individual Student-Athlete Development Work 1:1 with student-athletes to assess, program, and track progress toward personal performance goals. You're a coach, a motivator, and sometimes a sounding board.



About Urban

Urban is a coeducational independent high school serving approximately 420 students in grades 9–12. Grounded in equity, inclusion, and experiential learning, Urban encourages students to explore new challenges and define success on their own terms.

Our athletics and fitness programs reflect that philosophy: broad-based, inclusive, and designed to meet students wherever they are.



Position Overview

The Sports Performance & Fitness Coach leads a flexible, developmentally grounded program rooted in Long-Term Athletic Development (LTAD). The program serves both competitive athletes and the broader student body, including students using the fitness space for general health, exploration, and personal goals.

This role also oversees Urban’s fitness facilities and collaborates closely with the Director of Athletics, Athletic Trainer, and coaching staff.

Core Responsibilities

Program Design & Coaching

  • Design, implement and lead inclusive training sessions focused on strength, movement quality, mobility, and overall fitness

  • Adapt programming for a wide range of students—from beginners to experienced athletes

  • Support both team-based athletic development and general fitness participation

  • Integrate injury prevention and sustainable training habits using best practices and research in sports medicine

  • Stay current with best practices in sports performance, youth development, and injury prevention 

  • Support initiatives related to nutrition, recovery, and student education in partnership with Urban’s counseling, health and student life teams 

Student & Student Athlete Development

  • Teach safe technique and foundational movement skills and training habits

  • Build confidence, consistency and self-directed engagement in fitness

  • Create a welcoming environment for all students, regardless of experience or athletic identity

  • Encourage lifelong wellness and positive relationships with movement

  • Educate student-athletes on training principles, recovery, and long-term health 

Facility Oversight and Management

  • Oversee daily operations of the fitness and training spaces

  • Maintain a clean, safe, organized, and well-supervised environment

  • Manage equipment and supply use, maintenance, and inventory

  • Establish and enforce facility policies, safety protocols, and supervision standards 

  • Monitor training sessions to ensure proper technique and safe use of all equipment 

  • Collaborate on long-term planning for facility upgrades, layout, and equipment needs 

Collaboration

  • Partner with coaches to align training with team goals and seasonal demands 

  • Work with the Athletic Trainer (ATC) on injury prevention and return-to-play

  • Communicate clearly with athletes, coaches and administrators

  • Contribute to a collaborative, student-centered department culture