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 Lenagen – Director of Strategy & Women’s Football

Job Details

Job Title: Head of Academy Sport Science

Location: The Valley / Sparrows Lane Training Ground

Salary: £42,000 – £45,000 (dependent on experience)

Hours: Full time / part time / matchdays 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.

Performance Monitoring & Data Management

• 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.

Player Development

• 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.

Injury Risk Reduction & Return to Play

• 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.

Interdisciplinary Collaboration

• 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.

Innovation & Best Practice

• 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.

This role will involve working collaboratively with colleagues across the club in a dynamic sporting environment where flexibility, teamwork and professionalism are essential.

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 mileEssential Experience / Qualifications
• Undergraduate & postgraduate degree (or equivalent) in Sport Science or related discipline (Master’s preferred).
• 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 approachExperience 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.

  Why Join Charlton Athletic?

• 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 sportBenefits
• Private medical insurance
• Health cashback plan
• Employee Assistance Programme
• Auto-enrolled pensionSafeguarding

  Charlton Athletic Football Club is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment.

  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

Due to the volume of applications we receive, we may close this advert early.