High-Performance Sports Scientist & Analyst

Placements24; Rustenburg; Hybrid; ZAR 700,000 - 1,300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Flexible work arrangement

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a High-Performance Sports Scientist and Analyst near Rustenburg, North West. The role uses data-driven insights to optimize athlete performance, prevent injuries, and guide training decisions for elite teams.

You will work with coaches, medical staff, and athletes across disciplines, employing GPS, HR data, video analysis, and testing protocols to drive innovation in performance analysis in the North West region.

Qualifications

• A master's or doctoral degree in sports science or a related field.
• Minimum 4 years in high-performance sports science and analytics, preferably with elite teams.
• Proficiency in performance analysis software (Dartfish, Hudl Sportscode) and data tools (R, Python, SPSS).
• Experience with athlete monitoring systems (GPS, heart rate, wearables).
• Strong knowledge of physiology, biomechanics, and training methodologies across sports.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Collect, process, and analyze athlete performance data from GPS, HR monitors, video, and tests.
• Develop testing protocols for strength, speed, power, endurance, and agility.
• Provide detailed performance reports with actionable coaching insights.
• Collaborate with coaches to integrate science into training, load management, and periodization.
• Use software and stats tools for data visualization, modeling, and trend analysis.
• Monitor fatigue, recovery, and readiness; suggest interventions to optimize condition.
• Research new methods and tech to improve performance and injury prevention.
• Educate athletes and staff on sports science concepts and data interpretation.
• Ensure data integrity, privacy, and ethical handling of athlete information.

Skills

Analytical thinking

Problem solving

Communication

Independent & collaborative work

Education

Master's or Doctoral in Sports Science or related field

Tools

Dartfish

Hudl Sportscode

R

Python

SPSS

GPS data analysis

Heart rate monitoring

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading sports organization based near Rustenburg , North West, is looking for a highly skilled and analytical High-Performance Sports Scientist and Analyst to join their elite performance team. This role is critical in leveraging data-driven insights to optimize athlete performance, prevent injuries, and guide strategic training decisions for our competitive teams. You will work closely with coaches, medical staff, and athletes across various disciplines, providing cutting-edge scientific support and technological integration. This is an exceptional opportunity for a passionate sports scientist to contribute to the success of athletes at the highest level and to drive innovation in sports performance analysis within the North West region.

Key Responsibilities

• Collect, process, and analyze athlete performance data from various sources, including GPS, heart rate monitors, video analysis, and physiological testing.


• Develop and implement testing protocols to assess athlete physical qualities, including strength, speed, power, endurance, and agility.


• Provide detailed performance reports and actionable insights to coaching staff and athletes to inform training strategies and tactical adjustments.


• Collaborate with coaches to integrate sports science principles into training programs, ensuring periodization and load management are optimized.


• Utilize technology and software for data visualization, statistical analysis, and predictive modeling to identify performance trends and potential issues.


• Monitor athlete fatigue, recovery, and readiness to train, recommending interventions to maintain optimal physical and mental condition.


• Conduct research into new methodologies and technologies to enhance athlete performance and injury prevention strategies.


• Educate athletes and coaching staff on sports science principles and the interpretation of performance data.


• Ensure data integrity, security, and ethical handling of all sensitive athlete information.

Requirements

• A Master's or Doctoral degree in Sports Science, Exercise Physiology, Biomechanics, or a related field.


• A minimum of 4 years of hands-on experience in a high-performance sports science and analytics role, preferably with professional or elite amateur teams.


• Proficiency in performance analysis software (e.g., Dartfish, Hudl Sportscode) and data analysis tools (e.g., R, Python, SPSS).


• Experience with athlete monitoring systems (e.g., GPS, heart rate monitoring, wearable technology).


• Strong understanding of physiological testing, biomechanics, and training methodologies for various sports.


• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills.


• Exceptional communication and presentation skills, with the ability to convey complex information clearly to diverse audiences.


• Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a multidisciplinary team.


• Relevant certifications in sports science or coaching are a plus.


• A proactive approach to staying updated with the latest research and technological advancements in sports science.

Benefits

This role offers a competitive salary, commensurate with experience and qualifications, alongside opportunities for professional development and attending relevant conferences. The position comes with a flexible work arrangement, allowing for a blend of remote work and on-site engagement with teams and facilities in the Rustenburg area. You will be part of an innovative and forward-thinking performance department, contributing directly to the success of elite athletes. Our client values scientific rigor and data-driven decision-making, providing a stimulating environment for growth and impact. Further details regarding specific benefits and work arrangements will be discussed during the interview.