Director of Coaching & Player Development

Columbus Crew; Columbus (OH); On-site; USD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

The Columbus Crew seeks a strategic Head of Coaching and Individual Player Development to elevate academy coaching and talent growth. You will mentor Academy staff, shape the coaching framework, and align individual development with the club’s Game Model across the pipeline.

You will implement IDP programs, lead curriculum enhancement, collaborate with MLS and U.S. Soccer partners, and drive performance feedback while fostering a high-performance culture focused on developing emerging talents

Qualifications

• USSF A License is required; Elite Formation Coaching License (EFCL) preferred.
• Minimum of five years in a professional academy environment.
• Experience in coach education, mentorship, or coaching development.
• Strong understanding of player development principles and contemporary methodologies.
• Advanced tactical knowledge with practical coaching application.
• Proficient with modern technology including automation, visualization and databases.
• Excellent communication and ability to deliver concise progress reports.
• Ability to build positive cross-department relationships and maintain confidentiality.

Responsibilities

• Lead curriculum development with focus on play principles and shared coaching language.
• Mentor Academy coaching staff and conduct monthly performance reviews.
• Oversee IDP implementation for Academy players and emerging talents.
• Collaborate with Technical Director, Academy Director, and Analysis to support coaching framework.
• Develop annual calendar for player development and technical meetings.
• Ensure alignment of development objectives with the Columbus Crew Game Model.
• Partner with MLS and U.S. Soccer to advance coach education programs.

Skills

Leadership

Player development

Mentorship

Communication

Collaboration

Strategy

Education

USSF A License

EFCL preferred

Tools

Video analysis tools

Data visualization

Database systems

Job description

The Columbus Crew seeks a strategic Head of Coaching and Individual Player Development to elevate academy coaching and talent growth. You will mentor Academy staff, shape the coaching framework, and align individual development with the club’s Game Model across the pipeline.

You will implement IDP programs, lead curriculum enhancement, collaborate with MLS and U.S. Soccer partners, and drive performance feedback while fostering a high-performance culture focused on developing emerging talents