Senior Sports Science Analyst

Placements24; Upington; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,400,000; Full time

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Sports Science Analyst based in Upington, Northern Cape to join the performance department. The role requires advanced data collection, statistical analysis, and interpretation of athlete performance to inform training and development decisions.

You will work with coaches, medical staff, and athletes, using GPS, heart rate, and biomechanical data to optimize performance, prevent injuries, and drive evidence-based strategies in a state-of-the-art facility.

Qualifications

• Master's or Ph.D. in Sports Science, Exercise Physiology, Biomechanics, or related field.
• Minimum 6 years of experience in sports science analysis, ideally in professional or elite sports.
• Strong proficiency in statistical software and data visualization.

Responsibilities

• Collect, analyze, and interpret athlete performance data from multiple sources.
• Develop insights to optimize training strategies and player development.
• Monitor load management and injury risk to prevent overtraining.
• Prepare detailed reports and presentations for coaches, medical staff, and athletes.
• Collaborate with coaches to align sport science with team strategies.

Skills

6+ years experience in sports science

Analytical thinking

Independent multi-project management

Education

Master's or PhD in Sports Science / related field

Tools

R

SPSS

Python

GPS tracking tech

Physiological monitoring systems

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading professional sports organization, is seeking a highly analytical and experienced Senior Sports Science Analyst to join their performance department. This role, based in Upington, Northern Cape , will involve the collection, analysis, and interpretation of athlete performance data to enhance training strategies, optimize player development, and prevent injuries. The ideal candidate will possess a strong academic background in sports science, exercise physiology, or a related quantitative field, coupled with extensive practical experience working with elite athletes. You will be responsible for utilizing advanced statistical techniques and sports technology to provide actionable insights to coaches, medical staff, and athletes. This position requires a meticulous approach to data management, a deep understanding of biomechanics and physiological principles, and the ability to communicate complex findings effectively to a variety of stakeholders. You will be instrumental in driving data-informed decision-making across the entire performance ecosystem.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and implement systems for collecting athlete performance data from various sources (e.g., GPS, heart rate monitors, force plates, video analysis).
• Analyze performance data using statistical software and advanced modeling techniques to identify trends, strengths, and weaknesses.
• Translate complex data into clear, actionable insights and recommendations for coaches, athletes, and medical staff.
• Develop and monitor athlete load management strategies to optimize training and prevent overtraining or injury.
• Conduct research into new technologies and methodologies for athlete performance assessment and enhancement.
• Prepare detailed reports and presentations on athlete performance, injury risk, and training efficacy.
• Collaborate closely with coaches to align sports science support with team strategies and objectives.
• Educate athletes and staff on the importance of data-driven performance insights.
• Ensure the integrity, accuracy, and security of all performance data collected.
• Stay abreast of the latest advancements in sports science, biomechanics, and performance analytics.

Requirements

• Master's or Ph.D. in Sports Science, Exercise Physiology, Biomechanics, Kinesiology, or a related quantitative field.
• A minimum of 6 years of experience in sports science analysis, preferably within professional or elite-level sports.
• Proficiency in statistical analysis software (e.g., R, SPSS, Python) and data visualization tools.
• Experience with athlete tracking technologies (GPS, accelerometers) and physiological monitoring systems.
• Strong understanding of biomechanics, exercise physiology, and injury prevention principles.
• Excellent analytical, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills.
• Exceptional communication and presentation skills, with the ability to convey technical information clearly.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• Experience in working collaboratively with coaching and medical staff.
• A passion for sports performance and data-driven improvement.

Benefits

Our client offers a highly competitive annual salary of R , commensurate with qualifications and experience. This role comes with comprehensive medical and retirement benefits, as well as opportunities for professional development and attendance at relevant industry conferences. The position is based on-site in Upington, Northern Cape , within a state-of-the-art performance facility. Generous annual leave and a collaborative, research-oriented work environment are provided. This is an excellent opportunity to contribute to the success of a top-tier sports organization.