What are the responsibilities and job description for the Head of Academy Sports Science position at Charlton Athletic Community Trust?
Head of Academy Sport Science
WORK AT THE HEART OF FOOTBALL
Charlton Athletic Football Club
Charlton Athletic Football Club is more than a workplace. It is a club with deep roots in Southeast London, built on community, resilience and ambition.
Founded in 1905, Charlton has a proud history that includes an FA Cup triumph in 1947 and generations of supporters who see the club as part of their identity.
From our historic home at The Valley to our high-performance training ground at Sparrows Lane, every role at Charlton contributes to something bigger than a job – helping deliver elite performance on the pitch and unforgettable experiences for supporters.
We are proud to be a family club with ambition, where passionate and committed people can build meaningful careers in football.
“Working at Charlton means you’re part of something bigger than yourself. On a matchday you feel the energy of the supporters and know the work you do matters.”
Simon Lenagan – Group Sports Director
Job Details
Job Title: Head of Academy Sport Science
Location: Sparrows Lane Training Ground
Salary: £39,500 - £42,500 (dependent on experience)
Hours: Full time / matchdays & weekends inclusive
We are looking for a head of academy sport science to join our team and play an important role in supporting the club’s continued growth and success.
Working within a fast-paced professional football environment, you will contribute to delivering high standards across the club while helping create an environment where players, staff and supporters can thrive.
The Head of Academy Sport Science will lead the design, implementation, and continuous development of the sport science provision across the Academy. The role is responsible for optimising player physical development, enhancing performance, and reducing injury risk through evidence-based practice aligned with the club’s playing philosophy and long-term player development model.
What You'll Be Doing
Leadership & Strategy
What We're Looking For
If successful, you will be required to undertake an Enhanced DBS check.
Additional Information
How to Apply
To Apply, Please Visit
Job Openings
Closing date: N/A
Apply for this job
Share this job
Location
Training Ground
Department
Sports Science
Job Title
Head of Academy Sport Science
Salary
£39,500 - £42,500
WORK AT THE HEART OF FOOTBALL
Charlton Athletic Football Club
Charlton Athletic Football Club is more than a workplace. It is a club with deep roots in Southeast London, built on community, resilience and ambition.
Founded in 1905, Charlton has a proud history that includes an FA Cup triumph in 1947 and generations of supporters who see the club as part of their identity.
From our historic home at The Valley to our high-performance training ground at Sparrows Lane, every role at Charlton contributes to something bigger than a job – helping deliver elite performance on the pitch and unforgettable experiences for supporters.
We are proud to be a family club with ambition, where passionate and committed people can build meaningful careers in football.
“Working at Charlton means you’re part of something bigger than yourself. On a matchday you feel the energy of the supporters and know the work you do matters.”
Simon Lenagan – Group Sports Director
Job Details
Job Title: Head of Academy Sport Science
Location: Sparrows Lane Training Ground
Salary: £39,500 - £42,500 (dependent on experience)
Hours: Full time / matchdays & weekends inclusive
We are looking for a head of academy sport science to join our team and play an important role in supporting the club’s continued growth and success.
Working within a fast-paced professional football environment, you will contribute to delivering high standards across the club while helping create an environment where players, staff and supporters can thrive.
The Head of Academy Sport Science will lead the design, implementation, and continuous development of the sport science provision across the Academy. The role is responsible for optimising player physical development, enhancing performance, and reducing injury risk through evidence-based practice aligned with the club’s playing philosophy and long-term player development model.
What You'll Be Doing
Leadership & Strategy
- Develop and implement a comprehensive sport science strategy across all Academy age groups (U9–U21).
- Line manages and mentor sport science staff, ensuring consistent standards and professional development.
- Contribute to the wider Academy Performance Strategy in collaboration with coaching, medical, and analysis departments.
- Oversee the collection, analysis, and reporting of physical performance data (e.g. GPS, wellness, growth/maturation tracking).
- Establish robust monitoring systems to inform training load, recovery, and individual development plans.
- Provide actionable insights to coaches and multidisciplinary staff.
- Design and deliver age-appropriate athletic development programmes aligned to the club’s game model.
- Support transition phases (e.g. YDP to PDP, Academy to First Team) through tailored physical preparation.
- Integrate strength & conditioning, speed development, and injury prevention protocols.
- Work closely with medical staff to minimise injury risk through load management and screening.
- Lead the sport science input into return-to-play processes for Academy players.
- Ensure alignment between rehabilitation and performance objectives.
- Build strong working relationships with coaching, medical, nutrition, and analysis departments.
- Contribute to Individual Development Plans (IDPs) with a holistic, player-centred approach.
- Support education of players and staff on sport science principles.
- Stay current with advancements in sport science research and applied practice.
- Introduce innovative methodologies and technologies where appropriate.
- Ensure compliance with EPPP standards and governing body requirements.
What We're Looking For
- A team-first mindset and pride in contributing to collective success
- The ability to perform and make sound decisions in a high-pressure sporting environment
- Relentless attention to detail and commitment to elite standards
- Accountability, professionalism and a willingness to go the extra mile Essential Experience / Qualifications
- Undergraduate & postgraduate degree (or equivalent) in Sport Science or related discipline.
- Accredited with a relevant professional body (e.g. BASES, UKSCA).
- Proven experience in elite youth football or high-performance sport.
- Demonstrable experience in staff management and multidisciplinary environments. Skills & Attributes
- Strong teamwork and communication
- Ability to work in a fast-paced environment
- High levels of organisation and attention to detail
- A positive and professional approach Experience working within elite sport is beneficial but not essential for many roles – what matters most is attitude, commitment and a willingness to contribute to the success of the club.
- Work within a professional football environment
- Contribute to a historic club with a proud identity
- Be part of a collaborative and passionate team
- Develop your career in elite sport Benefits
- Private medical insurance
- Health cashback plan
- Employee Assistance Programme
- Auto-enrolled pension Safeguarding
If successful, you will be required to undertake an Enhanced DBS check.
Additional Information
- This role may involve evening and weekend work
- Applicants must have the right to live and work in the UK
- Charlton Athletic is committed to equality, diversity and inclusion and welcomes applications from all backgrounds
How to Apply
To Apply, Please Visit
Job Openings
Closing date: N/A
Apply for this job
Share this job
Location
Training Ground
Department
Sports Science
Job Title
Head of Academy Sport Science
Salary
£39,500 - £42,500
Salary : $39,500 - $42,500