Sport Scientist (P8) (Division for UJ Sport)

Position Summary

Job category: Education and Training
Campus: Auckland Park Kingsway Campus
Contract: Permanent
Remuneration: Market Related
EE position: EE
Level: Management

Job Purpose

To maximize physical performance ensuring elite sporting performance on a continuous basis to allocated clients and sporting codes.

Responsibilities

• Define and implement a comprehensive Sport Science & Athlete Support plan for sporting codes in collaboration with the Club Manager and Coach.
• Conduct fitness testing and develop individualized, periodised training programmes with ongoing monitoring and reassessment.
• Provide scientific guidance to coaches and players on performance, recovery, hydration, and injury prevention.
• Execute the developed training programmes.
• Collaborate with medical and sport science professionals to deliver integrated, player centred support services.
• Manage programme resources, documentation, reporting (quarterly and annual), and stakeholder communication.
• Identify research, work integrated learning, and fundraising opportunities to support programme growth.
• Ensure good governance by monitoring risks, maintaining equipment standards, and upholding compliance.
• Engage in professional development and build strategic partnerships across sport structures.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree (NQF 7) in Sport Science or related qualification.
• Three (3) years of relevant experience.
• Postgraduate courses in Sport Science or related fields.
• Strong knowledge of exercise physiology, biomechanics, and training principles.
• High competencies in sport specific assessment tools.
• Level 2 First Aid.
• Valid Code B driver's license.
• Proficiency in performance software and advanced Excel reporting.
• Understanding of injury prevention and return to play integration within a multidisciplinary team.

Competencies and Behavioural Attributes

• Ability to design and implement periodised strength & conditioning programmes.
• Competence in athlete testing, monitoring systems (GPS, RPE, wellness tracking), and load management.
• Ability to analyse performance data and translate findings into practical recommendations.
• High level of professionalism, accountability, and ethical conduct.
• Strong analytical and critical thinking ability.
• Clear and confident communication with coaches, athletes, and medical staff.
• Ability to work collaboratively within a high performance team environment.
• Organised, deadline driven, and detail oriented.
• Adaptable and composed under competitive pressure.

EEO Statement

In conjunction with merit on the basis of qualifications, experience and proven achievements the University of Johannesburg is committed to providing equal employment opportunities for persons with disabilities and those individuals from the historically disadvantaged groups.

Legal / Compliance Requirement

The University is obligated, in terms of recent amendments to the Criminal Law (Sexual Offences and Related Matters) Amendment Act 2021, to assess all prospective employees (including applicants) against the National Register for Sex Offenders (NRSO). The outcome of such an assessment may have an impact upon possible employment with the University.

Candidates may be subjected to appropriate psychometric testing and other selection instruments.