Set-Piece Architect & First-Team Coach

Real Salt Lake; Sandy (UT); On-site; USD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

Real Salt Lake is seeking a Set-Piece Coach to lead attacking and defensive set-piece design for the first team, aligned with MLS NEXT Pro and Academy. You will own corner, free kicks, throw-ins, and penalties, creating repeatable routines and clear roles.

The role integrates video and tracking data, and requires collaboration with Head Coach, goalkeeper coach, analytics team, and MLS academy staff to deliver weekly plans, matchday responsibilities, and ongoing innovation in set-piece

Qualifications

• USSF B License or UEFA B License required; USSF A or UEFA A preferred.
• Minimum of 3 years coaching in elite football environments.
• Proficiency with Hudl Sportscode and Wyscout for video analysis.
• Extensive experience planning and delivering on‑field sessions, including delivery mechanics, aerial organization, and zonal and man‑marking structures.
• Strong understanding of game models, opposition analysis, and individual player development within set‑piece phases.
• Exceptional communication skills with the ability to present complex information clearly to diverse audiences.
• Proven ability to manage weekly preparation timelines and matchday deliverables with accountability under competitive pressure.
• Ability to coach on the field, demonstrating techniques and managing equipment, mannequins, and training set‑up.
• Ability to collaborate within complex, multi‑team environments while maintaining alignment, trust, and accountability.

Responsibilities

• Lead the Real Salt Lake’s set‑piece strategy, covering attacking and defensive corners, direct and indirect free kicks, throw‑ins, and penalties.
• Design clear, repeatable routines with defined roles, timing, delivery zones, and second‑ball structures tailored to available personnel.
• Analyze opposition set pieces weekly using Hudl Sportscode and Wyscout video, supplemented by event/tracking outputs via club analytics, to produce actionable scouting reports and match plans.
• Plan and deliver set‑piece training blocks within the weekly schedule, ensuring efficient repetition, clarity, and player ownership.
• Coach individual delivery (corners, free kicks, throw‑ins) and aerial and positional skills in coordination with technical and goalkeeper staff.
• Track set‑piece KPIs (e.g., chances created and conceded, conversion rates, expected goals for and against) and report progress to the Head Coach and sporting leadership.
• Translate complex analysis into clear, actionable briefings for players, coaches, and goalkeepers through video, walkthroughs, and concise documents.
• Own matchday set‑piece responsibilities, including final checks, in‑game adjustments, and post‑match review, as directed by the Head Coach.
• Evaluate emerging trends, technologies, and research in set‑piece performance, driving continuous innovation.
• Promote knowledge sharing across MLS, MLS NEXT Pro, and Academy environments to elevate set‑piece standards throughout the organization.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Skills

Coaching

Video analysis

Communication

Project management

Collaboration

Education

Master’s degree

USSF A / UEFA A

Tools

Hudl Sportscode

Wyscout

StatsBomb

Opta

SkillCorner

Second Spectrum

Job description

Real Salt Lake is seeking a Set-Piece Coach to lead attacking and defensive set-piece design for the first team, aligned with MLS NEXT Pro and Academy. You will own corner, free kicks, throw-ins, and penalties, creating repeatable routines and clear roles.

The role integrates video and tracking data, and requires collaboration with Head Coach, goalkeeper coach, analytics team, and MLS academy staff to deliver weekly plans, matchday responsibilities, and ongoing innovation in set-piece