Performance Scientist – Vegas Golden Knights - NHL

Position SummaryThe Performance Scientist serves as the organization's specialist in sports science and performance intelligence and is responsible for collecting, analyzing, interpreting, and communicating objective performance information that supports player readiness, development, durability, availability, and performance.

Reporting to the Director of Sports Performance & Head Strength & Conditioning Coach, the Performance Scientist leads the day-to-day operation of athlete monitoring systems, performance testing, workload measurement, data analytics, technology integration, and performance reporting. The position provides evidence-informed decision support to Sports Performance, Sports Medicine, Coaching Staff, and Hockey Operations while contributing to the organization's integrated performance model.

Reporting RelationshipsAdministrative reporting to the Director of Sports Performance & Head Strength & Conditioning Coach.

Collaborates with Sports Medicine, Reconditioning Specialists, Strength & Conditioning, Nutrition, Mental Performance,

Coaching Staff and Hockey Operations.

Primary Responsibilities
Athlete Monitoring & Performance IntelligenceLead the collection, management, interpretation, and communication of player monitoring information to evaluate readiness, fatigue, adaptation, recovery, and performance. Develop objective performance reports that support evidence-informed decision-making throughout the organization.

Performance AssessmentPlan, administer, and interpret comprehensive performance testing batteries throughout the competitive season, off-season, and Return-to-Performance process. Evaluate neuromuscular performance, movement quality, force production, power, speed, conditioning, and other key performance indicators while collaborating with the Performance Reconditioning Specialist during athlete progression.

Performance AnalyticsAnalyze player performance information to identify trends associated with readiness, fatigue, adaptation, performance, and injury risk. Develop dashboards, visualizations, and reports that translate complex data into meaningful recommendations for Sports Performance, Sports Medicine, and Coaching Staff.

Workload MeasurementCollect and evaluate internal and external workload information using player monitoring technologies and objective performance measures. Quantify training demands, player exposure, and physiological responses while communicating findings that support workload management decisions made by the Director of Sports Performance.

Technology IntegrationOperate, maintain, validate, and optimize Sports Science technologies supporting player monitoring and performance evaluation. Ensure the quality, consistency, integrity, and reliability of all collected performance information while assisting with implementation of new technologies and continuous improvement initiatives.

Applied Research & InnovationSupport applied research initiatives and contribute to the evaluation of emerging technologies, testing methodologies, and evidence-informed performance practices. Assist in translating scientific research into practical applications that enhance player performance and organizational decision-making.

EducationEducate players, coaches, and performance staff regarding Sports Science methodologies, athlete monitoring technologies, workload concepts, and interpretation of performance information. Promote understanding of objective performance metrics and their application within player development and performance optimization.

Professional Practice ResponsibilitiesConduct athlete monitoring, readiness assessments, performance testing, and data analysis. Prepare performance reports and communicate findings to interdisciplinary staff. Maintain data quality and integrity, contribute to innovation initiatives, participate in organizational research projects, and remain current with emerging technologies and best practices in Sports Science.

Collaboration & Decision-MakingPrimary Ownership: Player monitoring, performance intelligence, readiness assessments, performance assessments, performance analytics, workload measurement, sports science technology, and data collection, integrity, and reporting.

Collaborative Responsibilities: Return-to-Performance, strength & conditioning, recovery, nutrition, injury prevention, player availability, and organizational performance initiatives.

Advisory Responsibilities: Workload management decisions, training modifications, recovery interventions, Return-to-Performance progressions, and practice planning.

QualificationsRequires master's degree in Sport Science, Exercise Physiology, Biomechanics, Kinesiology, Human Performance, Data Science, or related field. Minimum two years of experience in Sports Science or athlete performance. Experience with athlete monitoring systems and performance technology. Demonstrated proficiency in performance testing, statistical analysis, data visualization, and data analysis. Preferred doctoral degree in Sport Science, Exercise Physiology, Biomechanics, Data Science, Human Performance, or related discipline, with five or more years of experience in elite or professional sport. 

Core CompetenciesSports Science • Performance Analytics • Athlete Monitoring • Data Interpretation • Performance Testing • Technology Integration • Critical Thinking • Communication • Collaboration • Research Translation • Innovation • Attention to Detail

Success MeasuresSuccess is demonstrated through the delivery of accurate, timely, and actionable performance intelligence that enhances player readiness, development, durability, and availability. Additional measures include effective implementation of player monitoring systems, meaningful integration of Sports Science into organizational decision-making, high-quality collaboration across Performance & Medicine, and continuous advancement of evidence-informed practice.

Travel & Work EnvironmentNHL travel includes training camp, regular season, playoffs and off-season development activities as required. Must be able to work evenings, weekends, holidays, and within a high-performance professional hockey environment while supporting athlete monitoring, performance testing, and organizational decision-making.

We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, age, disability, gender identity, marital or veteran status, or any other protected class.