High-Performance Sports Scientist

Placements24; Vereeniging; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Pension fund

Professional development

State-of-the-art facilities

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a High-Performance Sports Scientist in Vereeniging to enhance athletic performance across multiple disciplines. The role involves conducting physiological testing, designing periodized training programs, and monitoring loads with advanced tech.

You will work with coaches and medical staff to tailor evidence-based strategies for elite athletes. Applicants should have a Master’s or PhD in Sports Science, 5+ years with elite athletes, and strong data analysis, biomechanics,

Qualifications

• Master's or Doctoral degree in Sports Science or related field.
• Minimum 5 years with elite athletes.
• Expertise in physiological testing protocols and data interpretation.
• Experience with performance monitoring software and data analysis tools.
• Strong biomechanics and training principles knowledge.
• Excellent communication and presentation skills.
• Ability to work in a multidisciplinary team.
• Experience managing multiple athlete caseloads.
• Willingness to travel for competitions.

Responsibilities

• Conduct physiological testing and performance analysis of elite athletes.
• Design and implement periodized training programs to optimize performance and prevent injury.
• Monitor training loads, recovery, and physiological responses using technology.
• Provide nutrition, hydration, recovery, and travel advice to athletes and coaches.
• Collaborate with coaches and medical staff for integrated athlete development.
• Utilize sports science software and databases for data management and reporting.
• Stay current with research and advancements in sports science.
• Educate athletes and coaches on key sports science principles.
• Assist in selecting performance monitoring tools and technologies.
• Contribute to strategic development of high-performance programs.

Skills

Sports physiology

Data analysis

Performance monitoring tools

Biomechanics

Communication skills

Team collaboration

Athlete management

Ethical practice

Education

Master's/PhD in Sports Science

Tools

GPS systems

Heart rate monitors

Metabolic systems

Job description

About the Role

A leading multi-disciplinary sports institute based in Vereeniging , Gauteng, is seeking a highly qualified High-Performance Sports Scientist. This role is dedicated to enhancing the physical capabilities and performance outcomes of elite athletes across various disciplines. The Sports Scientist will conduct physiological assessments, develop individualized training programs, monitor athlete load, and provide evidence-based recommendations to coaches and athletes. The successful candidate will possess a deep understanding of exercise physiology, biomechanics, and data analysis, coupled with practical experience in elite sport environments. This is a vital position contributing to athletic excellence within Vereeniging and beyond.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct comprehensive physiological testing and performance analysis of elite athletes.
• Design and implement evidence-based, periodized training programs to optimize performance and prevent injury.
• Monitor athlete training loads, recovery status, and physiological responses using advanced technology.
• Provide expert advice to athletes and coaches on nutrition, hydration, recovery strategies, and travel management.
• Collaborate closely with coaches, medical staff, and other performance specialists to ensure an integrated approach to athlete development.
• Utilize sports science software and databases for data management, analysis, and reporting.
• Stay current with the latest research and advancements in sports science and high-performance training.
• Educate athletes and coaches on key sports science principles and best practices.
• Assist in the selection and implementation of appropriate performance monitoring tools and technologies.
• Contribute to the overall strategic development of the institute's high-performance programs.

Requirements

• A Master's or Doctoral degree in Sports Science, Exercise Physiology, or a closely related field.
• A minimum of 5 years of experience working as a Sports Scientist with elite or professional athletes.
• Demonstrated expertise in physiological testing protocols, data analysis, and interpretation.
• Proficiency with performance monitoring software (e.g., GPS, heart rate monitors, metabolic systems) and data analysis tools.
• Strong understanding of biomechanics, training principles, and recovery strategies.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and presentation skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively within a multidisciplinary team environment.
• Experience in managing multiple athlete caseloads and diverse sport-specific demands.
• A commitment to ethical practice and scientific integrity in sport.
• Willingness to travel for competitions and training camps as required for athletes in the Vereeniging region.

Benefits

• This position offers a competitive salary and benefits package, including medical aid, a pension fund, and opportunities for professional development and further education.
• Access to state-of-the-art facilities and equipment will be provided.
• The role presents a rewarding career opportunity to work at the forefront of sports science, contributing directly to the success of elite athletes from Vereeniging and across the nation.