Data Analyst - MLS

Sporting Kansas City; Kansas City (KS); On-site; USD 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Sporting Kansas City is seeking a Data Analyst to deliver key performance insights and support decision-making across the First Team. You will work closely with coaches, analysts, scouts, and physical performance staff to translate data into actionable strategies.

The role requires strong SQL and Python (and/or R), experience with Tableau or similar tools, and a track record of presenting findings clearly to diverse stakeholders.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in data science or related STEM field.
• Experience using SQL and Python and/or R for data management and analysis.
• Previous experience working with Tableau or other data visualization software.
• Proven ability to translate data into actionable insights for diverse stakeholders.

Responsibilities

• Provide data and analytical support across the Club to enhance data understanding and application.
• Translate data into performance strategies with coaches, analysts, scouts, and staff.
• Lead data visualization projects and develop benchmarking frameworks for decision-making.
• Support recruitment and squad planning through profiling and market analysis.

Skills

SQL

Python

Tableau

Data visualization

Communication

Attention to detail

R

Education

Bachelor's degree in data science or related STEM

Job description

We are seeking an individual with excellent attention to detail to join our team as a Data Analyst. In this role, the successful candidate will focus on delivering key performance and data insights, working closely with coaches, analysts, scouts, physical coaches and other key stakeholders across the First Team to support decision-making.

Sporting Kansas City is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and equity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all associates. All associates are expected to positively collaborate with individuals of diverse backgrounds. We encourage all talented individuals looking for a challenge to apply.

People

Provide data and analytical support across the Club to enhance data understanding, adoption and application.

• Work closely with key soccer stakeholders to translate data into performance strategies.
• Develop strong relationships with coaches, analysts, scouts, physical performance coaches and other key soccer stakeholders.
• Present and discuss analytical findings clearly and concisely to multiple stakeholders, including coaches, technical staff, leadership and ownership.

Process

Answer performance questions, translating data into simple, actionable recommendations.

• Support the creation and delivery of pre-match, post-match and opposition profiling reports.
• Deliver high-quality individual and team-level research projects aimed at improving performance and supporting decision-making.
• Lead on data visualization projects, supporting the creation and delivery of multiple tools.
• Develop and maintain player, team and league benchmarking frameworks to support objective decision-making.
• Support recruitment and squad planning through benchmarking, profiling & market analysis.

Product

Query, gather, and manipulate data from multiple sources.

• Work with event, tracking and physical performance datasets to develop custom metrics.
• Build decision-support tools and reports to be presented and distributed across the Club.
• Ensure data best practices across the Club, ensuring alignment with the wider Club data strategy and supporting the continuous development of SKC’s reporting ecosystem.

Education & Experience

Bachelor's degree in data science or related STEM subject.

• Experience using SQL and Python and/or R for data management and analysis.
• Previous experience working with Tableau or other equivalent data visualization software.
• Previous experience working with data and delivering insights within a pro soccer club.
• Evidence of excellent communication skills, able to translate data into actionable insights.
• Creative and curious problem solver with a positive attitude to new challenges.
• Proactive and eager to learn, able to pick up new skills and work as part of a team.
• Excellent attention to detail and evidence of working on developing strong analytical skills.

Preferred Experience

Strong understanding of technical and tactical aspects of soccer.

• Evidence of experience working in the MLS.

Physical Requirements

Ability to work in office, stadium, and outdoor environments with the ability to travel as required.

• Ability to occasionally lift up to 25 pounds.
• Ability to work non-traditional hours including evenings, weekends, and holidays.

Additional Responsibilities

Represent Sporting Kansas City professionally at all times.

• Maintain confidentiality of sensitive information.
• Comply with Club policies and procedures.
• Perform other duties as assigned.