What are the responsibilities and job description for the Mental Performance Coach position at Toronto Blue Jays?
The Toronto Blue Jays are seeking a dynamic Mental Performance Coach (MPC) to potentially support our High-A (Vancouver, BC) and Double-A (Manchester, NH) affiliates. Final affiliate assignments will be determined based on the candidate’s training, experience, and expertise. This part-time, salaried position is based out of the Player Development Complex (PDC) in Dunedin, Florida, during Spring Training, select off-season camps, and for in-season events (e.g., Draft Camp) when not supporting MiLB affiliates. The role offers a unique opportunity to drive departmental growth while directly supporting players and coaches across our organization.
Responsibilities:
Programming:
- Support department-wide initiatives and pilot programs to advance mental performance goals.
- Contribute to the development and execution of the department's strategic vision for near- and long-term impact.
Player & Staff Development:
- Deliver impactful individual and group mental performance sessions to enhance players' focus, composure, resilience, and self-awareness.
- Provide performance optimization and wellness support for players and staff.
- Develop and monitor individualized player development plans aligned with organizational objectives.
- Identify mental health concerns and collaborate with the EAP Director for appropriate referrals and care.
Collaboration & Innovation:
- Partner with coaching staff to integrate mental performance strategies into routines and team culture.
- Support on-field responsibilities in collaboration with coaches, as needed.
- Work closely with High Performance (HP) and Player Development (PD) staff to provide interdisciplinary support for players and staff.
- Implement evidence-based mental performance practices using frameworks such as Acceptance Commitment Training (ACT) and Motivational Interviewing (MI).
- Exhibit excellent written, verbal, presentation, and facilitation skills.
Reporting & Communication:
- Provide regular updates on players' progress, goals, and insights to stakeholders, fostering accountability and alignment.
- Maintain comprehensive reporting systems to track player development and program impact.
Qualifications
Required:
- Master’s degree in sport/performance psychology or a related field.
- 2 years of experience working with professional, military, or college athletes.
- Certified Mental Performance Consultant (CMPC) or CMPC-eligible (mentorship available).
- Strong collaborative approach within an interdisciplinary team of professionals.
- Adherence to the AASP Code of Ethics.
- Valid passport and the ability to travel extensively, including nights, weekends, and long hours.
Preferred:
- Bilingual (English & Spanish) to bridge cultural gaps and enhance communication.
- Previous baseball experience as a coach or player.
- Familiarity with statistical and video analysis tools.
- Knowledge of ACT and MI frameworks.
Contract Details
This position begins in January 2025. Salary and other contract details will be discussed during the interview process.
To apply for this position, please attach a Cover Letter / Resume / References.
Organizational Impact & Values
This role embodies the Toronto Blue Jays’ core values of Collaborate, Learn, Empower, Achieve, and Respect (CLEAR). The ideal candidate will foster an inclusive environment where players and staff feel empowered to reach their full potential. By bridging development levels, this role contributes directly to building a culture of resilience, accountability, and high performance.
Equal Opportunity Statement
The Toronto Blue Jays are committed to fostering an inclusive workplace by providing equal employment opportunities without discrimination or harassment based on race, color, religion, sex, age, disability, citizenship, marital status, sexual orientation, or other characteristics protected by law. We value diversity and are dedicated to creating an environment that supports personal and professional growth for all employees.