PDP Lead Strength & Conditioning Coach / Sport Scientist

The PDP Lead Strength & Conditioning Coach / Sport Scientist will lead the physical development programme for Port Vale Academy's PDP players, with primary responsibility for preparing U18 players for the physical, technical and tactical demands of U21 and First Team football.

The role will be responsible for creating an individualised, evidence-informed physical development programme that supports player availability, robustness, performance and progression into senior football.

The post holder will also work closely with the Lead Sports Scientist U9–U16 to ensure there is a clear, progressive and consistent physical development pathway throughout the Academy.

The successful candidate will be expected to connect physical development with football development, ensuring that S&C and sports science are integrated into the Academy's overall playing and development philosophy.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the physical development programme for PDP/U18 players, ensuring alignment with Academy and senior football demands.
• Design and deliver age-appropriate, individualised strength and conditioning programmes tailored to each player’s needs.
• Develop and track individual physical development plans, supporting progression towards U21 and First Team football.
• Develop key physical qualities including speed, acceleration, strength, power, aerobic capacity, repeated high-intensity running and robustness.
• Ensure physical development reflects each player’s position, playing style and the demands of senior football.
• Work closely with First Team Sport Science and Performance staff to prepare players for successful transition into the First Team environment.
• Ensure a clear and progressive physical development pathway from U9–U18, collaborating with Academy Sport Science staff on benchmarks and maturation data.
• Plan and deliver progressive gym-based programmes that become increasingly individualised as players move towards senior football.
• Lead physical testing, profiling and monitoring within the PDP, using GPS and performance data to inform player development and decision-making.
• Consider growth, biological maturation and associated injury risks when planning and adapting individual physical development programmes.
• Collaborate closely with coaching and medical staff to support injury prevention, player availability, physical readiness and return-to-play processes.
• Educate and empower players to take ownership of their physical preparation and become self-sufficient footballers on and away from the pitch.