Lead Physiotherapist

Oldham RLFC 1876; Oldham; On-site; GBP 32,000 - 52,000; Part time

Job summary

Oldham RLFC is seeking a dedicated and experienced Lead Physiotherapist to lead the delivery of physiotherapy services for the First Team within a semi-professional environment. Reporting directly to the Head of Performance, you will be responsible for the assessment, treatment and rehabilitation of players, supporting player welfare and maximising availability throughout the season.

You will deliver evidence-informed rehabilitation programmes, coordinate return-to-play processes and provide

Qualifications

• BSc (Hons) Physiotherapy is required.
• Current HCPC registration and CSP membership are essential.
• Pitch-side trauma qualification (IMMOFP/PHICIS Level 2 or equivalent) or willingness to obtain before start.
• Full UK driving licence and access to own transport.

Responsibilities

• Lead delivery of physiotherapy services for the First Team.
• Assess, treat and rehabilitate players; support welfare and maximise availability.
• Deliver evidence-informed rehabilitation programmes and coordinate return-to-play.
• Work with coaching, performance and medical staff for integrated care.

Skills

Interpersonal skills

Communication skills

Clinical reasoning

Team collaboration

Player welfare focus

Education

BSc (Hons) Physiotherapy

HCPC registered

CSP membership

Pitch-side trauma qualification

Full UK driving licence

Job description

Job Description

Oldham RLFC is seeking a dedicated and experienced Lead Physiotherapist to lead the delivery of physiotherapy services for the First Team within a semi-professional environment. Reporting directly to the Head of Performance, you will be responsible for the assessment, treatment and rehabilitation of players, supporting player welfare and maximising availability throughout the season.

You will deliver evidence-informed rehabilitation programmes, coordinate return-to-play processes and provide high-quality clinical care across training and match days. This is a hands‑on role requiring excellent clinical reasoning, strong communication skills and the ability to work collaboratively with coaching, performance and medical staff to ensure players receive an integrated and athlete-centred service.

Essential Criteria: Qualifications and Professional Requirements

• BSc (Hons) Physiotherapy.
• Current HCPC registration and Chartered Society of Physiotherapy (CSP) membership.
• Valid pitch‑side trauma qualification (IMMOFP, PHICIS Level 2 or above, or equivalent), or willingness to obtain prior to the start of employment.
• Full UK driving licence and access to own transport.

Experience

• Minimum of 2–3 years' post‑graduate physiotherapy experience, including the management of musculoskeletal injuries.
• Experience working within a sporting or athletic performance environment (academy, semi‑professional or professional).
• Demonstrated ability to assess, diagnose and manage acute and chronic injuries using evidence‑informed clinical reasoning.
• Experience designing and delivering individualised rehabilitation programmes from initial injury through to return to training and return to play.

Skills and Competencies

• Excellent interpersonal skills with the ability to build strong relationships with players and staff.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills, including the ability to provide clear clinical updates to the Head of Performance, coaches and relevant stakeholders. Ability to work independently, prioritise workload and make sound clinical decisions in a fast‑paced environment.
• Competence in maintaining accurate clinical records and working within appropriate medical governance standards.
• A collaborative approach, working effectively within a multidisciplinary team and contributing positively to an integrated performance environment.

Personal Qualities

• Athlete‑centred approach with a genuine commitment to player welfare.
• Proactive attitude towards injury prevention, rehabilitation and continuous improvement.
• Commitment to ongoing professional development and remaining current with evidence‑based practice.
• Flexibility to work evenings, weekends and travel as required throughout the season.

Desirable Criteria: Qualifications and Training

• Postgraduate qualification in Sports Physiotherapy, Strength & Conditioning or a related discipline.
• Additional certifications in manual therapy, movement assessment or return‑to‑play rehabilitation.

Desired Experience

• Previous experience working within rugby league or another collision/contact sport.
• Experience supporting or mentoring junior physiotherapists, students or interns.
• Experience working within a semi‑professional or resource‑limited environment.
• Experience contributing to injury prevention initiatives, screening programmes or performance projects.

Knowledge and Skills

• Understanding of the physical demands, injury profiles and rehabilitation requirements within rugby league.
• Familiarity with GPS and athlete monitoring systems, and the integration of objective data into rehabilitation planning.
• Experience collaborating with strength and conditioning staff to deliver integrated rehabilitation and return‑to‑play programmes.
• Confidence delivering player education on injury prevention, recovery and physical preparation.

Working Pattern

• This is a part‑time, semi‑professional position requiring flexibility to meet the demands of the rugby league season.

The successful candidate will be expected to attend:

• First Team training: Monday, Wednesday and Friday evenings.
• Match days: Sunday fixtures (home and away), including pre‑match preparation, pitch‑side medical cover and post‑match treatment.
• Additional rehabilitation sessions, player assessments and meetings with the Head of Performance as required to support player welfare and optimise player availability.