Be part of our journey- APPLY NOW
An exciting opportunity has arisen within Falkirk FC to join the club as a Sports Scientist for the recently relaunched Falkirk Academy and men's first team as the club returns to the Scottish Premiership.
This dual role offers a unique opportunity to shape the physical development of our future stars while contributing to the success of the first team. You will lead the sport science provision across the academy and deliver high-level performance support to the first team, working closely within a high performance multi-disciplinary team.
This is a fantastic opportunity to play a key role in a progressive professional football club, in a high-performance environment, supporting academy and first team players to enable them to perform at their very best.
Key Information
- The role is full-time and permanent.
- The contract is for 35 hours per week, which includes regular evenings and weekends. A flexible approach to working is essential due to the nature of the industry.
- The contract includes 28 days holiday.
- Remuneration is dependent on qualifications and experience.
- A sports science qualification with some football experience is essential for this role.
How to Apply
Please email Head of Performance Services, Blair Doughty, supplying your CV and a cover letter outlining why you are interested in the role - blair.doughty@falkirkfc.co.uk
Closing Date - 5pm Wednesday 4th June 2025
For further information on the role please email blair.doughty@falkirkfc.co.uk
Job description
Job title: Academy & First Team Sports Scientist
Department: Academy & First Team
Salary/scale: Entry level. Competitive
Contract type: Permanent
Accountable/reports to: Head of Performance Services/Head of Youth Development
Job overview and purpose:
This dual role offers a unique opportunity to shape the physical development of our future stars while contributing to the success of the first team. You will lead the sport science provision across the academy and deliver high-level performance support to the first team, working closely within a high performance multi-disciplinary team.
Key responsibilities:
First Team Responsibilities:
- Construct and deliver a testing and monitoring program for all 1st team players
- Provide regular reports and insights to coaching staff on physical performance data
- Support in the deliver high-quality sport science support to first team players
- Assist in designing and implementing warm-ups, conditioning sessions
- To assist the medical team as required with functional rehabilitation and return to play strategies.
- Assist with the development and delivery of strength and conditioning sessions
- Play an active role in the delivery of recovery sessions following games.
- Provide match day sports science support where required.
Academy responsibilities:
- Design and implement a progressive sport science programme across all academy age groups (U11-U19).
- Design and implement a physical performance profiling model to evaluate physical performance and development which includes growth and maturation testing
- Design and deliver gym-based training sessions for all academy teams in line with the development framework
- Educate players and coaches on physical performance, recovery, and injury prevention.
- Maintain a data management system for longitudinal player monitoring adopting a conscientious approach to data entry and judicious interpretation and dissemination of results.
- Head/Lead a group of Intern/placement sport science students in line with working relationship with university partner
- Educate player & coaches on sport science topics which include a performance lifestyle and nutrition
- Work closely with the Head of Academy to integrate athletic development into the academy curriculum.
- Facilitate and proactively contribute to applied research projects as directed by the Head of Performance Services
- Undertake any other responsibilities required from the Head of Performance Services
Key job information
- The role is full-time and permanent.
- The contract is for 35 hours per week, which includes regular evenings and weekends. A flexible approach to working is essential due to the nature of the industry.
- The contract includes 28 days holiday.
- Support towards CPD
Communication and contacts internal:
Board of Directors, CEO, Head of Performance Services, Head of Youth Development, First Team Manager, staff, players and volunteersEXTERNAL: Other academies, other clubs
Our club
Falkirk FC is a fan-owned club, so we place a premium on our people. You will be a vital part in helping our club succeed, working with fans and local businesses who want to share our success. We nurture a supportive environment, enabling colleagues to develop their skills and careers by being part of a high-performing team, on and off the field.
Successful candidates will get out of the job what they put in and will be supported in achieving ambitious goals. Falkirk FC does not tolerate bullying, harassment, and discrimination. We will consider alternative working patterns within the club's business needs.
Person specification
Qualifications (educational) - essential
- BSc in Sport Science or related discipline
Qualifications (educational) - desirable
- MSc in Sports Science related discipline
Qualifications (job specific) - essential
- Working towards BASES Accreditation or UKSCA Accreditation
Qualifications (job specific) - desirable
- BASES Accreditation or UKSCA Accreditation
General intelligence/personal traits and characteristics - essential
- Passionate and driven individual
- Good time keeping
- Good communication skills
- Competent IT and administration skills
- Ability to work as part of a team
- Critical thinking and analytical mindset.
- Honesty, openness, and an approachable demeanour
Job related skills/abilities/competencies - essential
- Experience working in a professional football environment
- Strong understanding of youth physical development principles
- Proficient in GPS analysis, data interpretation, and relevant performance software (e.g., Catapult, Excel).
- A proactive, innovative, and organised approach to performance enhancement.
Job related skills/abilities/competencies - desirable
- Experience working with both academy and senior players.
- Has had training or experience using Vald testing equipment.
Ability to work to specific job demands - essential
- Flexible approach to working including evenings and weekends
- The ability to work in a high paced environment
Ability to work to specific job demands - desirable
- Driving licence
- PVG Disclosure