What are the responsibilities and job description for the Head of Performance – MLS Academy Program position at Atlanta United?
About Atlanta United
Atlanta United joined Major League Soccer in 2017 and won the 2018 MLS Cup in just its second season, the earliest an expansion team has won the title since 1998. The club has set multiple league records including season tickets sales (36,000-plus), single-season average (53,002) and total home attendance (901,033). Owned by Arthur M. Blank, Atlanta United plays its home matches at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. For more information about Atlanta United, including how to purchase season tickets, visit: www.atlutd.com, and follow @ATLUTD.
Position Summary:
The Head of Performance will oversee the physical preparation, injury prevention, recovery strategies, and sports science initiatives for all players in the Atlanta United Academy and the second team competing in MLS NextPro. This role will ensure that all academy and second-team athletes are physically and mentally prepared to meet the demands of professional soccer by implementing evidence-based training methodologies, developing individualized performance programs, and collaborating with coaches, medical staff, and sports scientists to optimize player development.
Key Responsibilities:
- Develop and implement a comprehensive performance strategy that aligns with the club’s overall philosophy and playing style.
- Oversee the design and delivery of strength & conditioning, injury prevention, recovery, and nutrition programs for academy and second-team players.
- Monitor and analyze player performance data using GPS tracking, force plates, and other sports science tools to assess progress and inform training decisions.
- Collaborate with academy and second-team coaches to integrate physical preparation and sports science within the technical and tactical training framework.
- Work closely with the medical and rehabilitation staff to coordinate injury prevention and return-to-play protocols.
- Lead the academy’s and second team’s sports science initiatives, ensuring best practices in data collection, performance monitoring, and applied research.
- Educate players, coaches, and parents on best practices in sports science, nutrition, and recovery.
- Establish and maintain key performance indicators (KPIs) to track player progression and evaluate program effectiveness.
- Stay current with the latest research and best practices in sports science, strength and conditioning, and player development.
- Lead and mentor a team of performance staff, including strength & conditioning coaches, and sports scientists.
- Ensure compliance with MLS and U.S. Soccer performance and medical standards.
Qualifications & Experience:
- Bachelor's or Master’s degree in Sports Science, Strength & Conditioning, Kinesiology, Exercise Physiology, or a related field.
- Minimum of 5 years of experience in high-performance environments, preferably in elite youth or professional soccer settings.
- Certified Strength & Conditioning Specialist (CSCS) or equivalent accreditation (e.g., UKSCA, NASM-PES, EXOS, etc.).
- Experience with sports technology and data analytics, including GPS tracking, heart rate monitoring, and force plate testing.
- Strong knowledge of soccer-specific fitness requirements, periodization, and training load management.
- Proven ability to collaborate effectively with multidisciplinary teams, including coaches, medical staff, and technical directors.
- Excellent communication and leadership skills with the ability to educate and inspire young athletes.
- Passion for player development and a deep understanding of the demands of modern soccer.
- Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings, weekends, and travel as required.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Experience working within an MLS Academy or similar elite development pathway.
- UEFA, USSF, or NSCA coaching certifications.
- Background in applied research or experience in utilizing data for performance enhancement.
- Bilingual (English/Spanish) preferred.
We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, age, disability, gender identity, marital or veteran status, or any other protected class.
