Data-Driven Performance Scientist for Baseball

Ilitch Sports + Entertainment; Detroit (MI); On-site; USD 110,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

Ilitch Sports + Entertainment is seeking an Applied Performance Scientist to lead workload monitoring and integrate data into decision-making across performance, medical, and coaching teams.

The role requires a master's in a relevant field, 3+ years with elite athletes, and proficiency in SQL, R, and Python. You will drive research to reduce injury risk and enhance on-field performance through data-informed processes.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Exercise Science, Kinesiology, Data Science or related field.
• 3+ years of applied Performance Science with elite athletes and NSCA CPSS or CSCS.
• Experience in workload monitoring, performance testing, and strength and conditioning.
• Excellent knowledge of baseball concepts and direct work with players and coaches.
• Excellent communication skills to align stakeholders across departments.
• Strong systems thinking and ability to build efficient data, technology, and people workflows.
• Strong analytical skills with SQL, R, Python.
• Ability to manage multiple projects in a fast-paced environment; flexible hours to meet baseball calendar.

Responsibilities

• Lead development of standardized workload monitoring framework informing readiness and workload decisions.
• Collaborate with Medical, Rehab, Strength & Conditioning and Performance Science to design integrated processes.
• Monitor workload trends, flag injury risk, support playing time projections.
• Support in-season physical testing and profiling, integrate results with workload and game-demand data.
• Support injury risk modeling and broader research initiatives to improve understanding.
• Complete ad-hoc analyses and generate reports with actionable insights across the organization.
• Drive applied research to understand player availability and on-field performance outcomes.
• Monitor emerging best practices and adopt relevant advancements to stay competitive.
• Continuously improve internal systems, workflows, and communication.

Skills

SQL

R

Python

Data analysis

Mathematical modeling

Education

Master's degree in Exercise Science, Kinesiology, Data Science or related field

Tools

NSCA CSCS/CPSS certification

Job description

Ilitch Sports + Entertainment is seeking an Applied Performance Scientist to lead workload monitoring and integrate data into decision-making across performance, medical, and coaching teams.

The role requires a master's in a relevant field, 3+ years with elite athletes, and proficiency in SQL, R, and Python. You will drive research to reduce injury risk and enhance on-field performance through data-informed processes.