Join the team: Academy Strength & Conditioning Coach

Academy Strength & Conditioning Coach

Location: Carrington Training Centre, Manchester
Department: Academy
Reports To: Academy Manager
Contract Type: Full-Time, On-Site

Salary: Competitive, dependent on experience

Join Sale Sharks

At Sale Sharks, we’re more than a rugby club. We’re a team, a community, and a family, united by the Fabric of the North.

As the North West’s only Premiership Rugby club, we compete at the highest level in the Gallagher Premiership and European competitions, while also supporting the growth of our Women’s programme in Premiership Women’s Rugby.

Driven by our ambition to be the most impactful rugby club on the planet, both on and off the pitch, we’re committed to developing talent, supporting our communities, and living our values every day: Togetherness, Fearlessness, Passion, Pride and Humility.

We are now seeking an experienced and motivated Academy Strength & Conditioning Coach to play a key role in the physical development of our academy players.

The Opportunity

This is an exciting opportunity for a passionate Strength & Conditioning professional to join our Academy team on a full-time basis.

The successful candidate will primarily support the U16 programme and lead the U17 Strength & Conditioning programme, while working collaboratively across the wider Academy pathway. You will contribute to the development of aspiring elite rugby players and gain valuable experience within a high-performance professional sporting environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Plan, coordinate and implement Academy Strength & Conditioning programmes and schedules in collaboration with the wider performance team.
• Conduct player assessments, establish performance benchmarks and implement effective monitoring and testing protocols.
• Deliver age-appropriate Strength & Conditioning programmes that support the long-term development of Academy athletes.
• Work within a multidisciplinary team including coaches, physiotherapists and medical staff to support rehabilitation and return-to-play programmes.
• Undertake regular visits to schools and affiliate ACE programmes, including Myerscough College and Ashton on Mersey School.
• Build and maintain strong working relationships with players, coaches, schools and external stakeholders.
• Promote and share industry best practice both internally and externally.
• Support Academy matches, festivals and other performance events as required.
• Assist with internal, RFU and Premiership Rugby annual audit requirements.

Essential Skills & Experience

• Experience working within a performance sport environment, ideally within an Academy or professional sporting setting.
• Strong understanding of Strength & Conditioning principles, including programme design for strength, speed, agility, change of direction and energy system development.
• Experience using performance monitoring and diagnostic tools.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• A genuine passion for developing young elite rugby athletes.
• Full UK driving licence and access to your own vehicle.

Desirable Skills & Experience

• MSc (or working towards) in Strength & Conditioning or a related discipline.
• Working towards or holding UKSCA, CSCS or equivalent industry-recognised qualifications.
• Previous experience working with adolescent athletes in a high-performance environment.

About the Role

This full-time position is based at our Carrington Training Centre, with regular travel across the Academy schools network.

The role will require flexibility, including occasional early mornings, evenings, weekends and bank holidays to support training, fixtures and Academy activities.

Please note that this role is subject to appropriate safeguarding and disclosure checks.

Benefits

• Access to on-site gym facilities
• Subsidised meals during the season
• Free on-site parking
• Complimentary tickets to all Sale Sharks home fixtures
• Opportunity to work within an ambitious and high-performing professional sports environment

How to Apply

To apply, please send your CV and covering letter to people@salesharks.com by 25 September 2026.

Interview Date: Week commencing 5 October 2026.

Equality, Diversity & Inclusion

Sale Sharks is an equal opportunities employer committed to creating an inclusive workplace where diversity is valued and everyone can thrive. We welcome applications from all suitably qualified candidates, regardless of background, identity or circumstance.