ABOUT THE COMPANY

Philadelphia was awarded the 16th Major League Soccer franchise in February 2008 and the team was officially announced as the Philadelphia Union in May 2009. Owned and operated by Keystone Sports and Entertainment LLC (“KSE”), the group launched the Philadelphia Union's inaugural season in 2010 and opened what is now Subaru Park in June 2010. Subaru Park is an 18,500 seat, world-class soccer specific stadium that sits beautifully along the Delaware River at the base of the Commodore Barry Bridge and is only 15 miles from downtown Philadelphia.

Philadelphia Union’s culture and brand positioning of Young, Fearless, Challengers differentiates us from others and focuses our vision to be unafraid and defy the ordinary. KSE is relentlessly pursuing excellence both on and off the field and will lead the way, set the standards and share the glory. Our connection to Philadelphia is symbolized in the Club’s crest as the snake, colors, shield, slogan and thirteen stars all represent Philadelphia as the original capital city and its call to action during the American Revolution.

Philadelphia Union’s competitive strategy consists of three foundational pillars: player development, common style of play, and innovation. These pillars explain our recent success and set the roadmap to win in the future. The club has just entered an exciting new phase where all sectors of the organization – sporting, business, school – are on one world-class “Super Campus” in Chester. Forward first, combative playing style, efficiency, being brave, data driven, team-based philosophy; these are just some common phrases that unify and empower us to win together as one club.

For the Philadelphia Union, winning comes out of excellent player development.

The Philadelphia Union operates and competes in Major League Soccer, the top professional league in the United States. Youth development is the core of our mission and the heart of our passion. The Philadelphia Union Academy program is free of charge, so Philadelphia’s future players promise have an opportunity to pursue their passions without the burden of paying to play. Selection into the program is a true accomplishment and the major step in a player’s path to Subaru Park.

The innovative Philadelphia Union Academy & Professional Development pathway is deeply based in sport science and performance and follows best practices in coaching education. It includes three developmental phases: Junior Academy (U9 - U12), Mid Academy (U13 - U15), Senior Academy (U16 – U18), and Professional Development Phase (Union II). Philadelphia Union II compete in MLS Next Pro.

ABOUT THE ROLE

The Philadelphia Union II Head Coach reports to the Director of Academy and Professional Development. The Head Coach will help lead and implement the strategy and development of Philadelphia Union’s MLS NEXT Pro side. The Head Coach leads structure and helps execute the club’s comprehensive strategy for Philadelphia Union II’s training sessions, learning platforms and cadence including all technical and tactical aspects. The Head Coach is expected to proactively support the club’s overall player development process, including participation in Academy and First Team training sessions to support continuity and integration across the Academy, Union II and First Team. The Head Coach is responsible for overseeing and execution of IDP plans for Union II players in accordance with our One Club Philosophy to support their transition between the Academy, Union II and First Team. The Head Coach will regularly liaise with First Team and Academy staff on progress of high potential players and player movement. The Head Coach will strive to achieve success on the pitch, identify & develop the individual strengths of our players, and remain current with the latest mechanisms and strategies to cultivate growth, progression, and development of high potential players, improving the overall quality of our club.’

The Head Coach is responsible for leading Union II’s high performance both on and off the field, driving team tactics, strategy, and player development. This role requires a deep understanding of the game of soccer, exceptional leadership skills, and the ability to manage a diverse group of players, coaching staff, and team resources. The Head Coach must also represent the club at a high level within MLS and foster a competitive and professional environment for players and staff.

The successful candidate hired for this role will be a leader, team worker, and developer, operating with an inspiring work ethic, strong interest in data, and very high level of humility and integrity.

RESPONSIBILITIES

Coach Union II in all exhibition, regular season, playoff, tournament, international and other games
Execute our “transitional-football” methodology in close connection with our First Team and Academy coaching staff through daily contact, strategy meetings and briefings
Prepare all games played by Union II, including developing game strategies and supervising the scouting of opposing teams
Maintain open communication with the club’s Director of Academy & Professional Development, Sporting Director, Assistant Sporting Director, as well as other sporting department heads, and front-office staff regarding long-term goals
Enforce Club’s Rules and League Rules applicable to Union II players and/or coaching staff
Participate in promotional, sponsorship, and public relations activities as requested upon reasonable prior notice
Partner with sporting staff to promote and assist with the development of the Academy teams
Mentor and guide players to improve their individual skills and performance
Provide constructive feedback and support to players, addressing any performance or behavioral issues
Work with assistants and specialists to track player performance metrics, reviewing game footage, statistics, and physical assessments
Stay updated with current trends in soccer, continuously refining coaching methods and approaches to innovate
Other duties and services as assigned by Club
Serve as an ambassador on behalf of Philadelphia Union in the US soccer community

QUALIFICATIONS

Demonstrated success and experience in player development
Required coaching certifications (e.g., USSF Pro License, UEFA Pro License, USSF A or equivalent)
Strong leadership abilities to manage and inspire a diverse team of players and staff
In-depth understanding of soccer, including tactics, player development, and match preparation aligned with our “transitional football” methodology
Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to interact effectively with players, staff, management, and media
Native or fluent English; additional languages preferred
Ability to make quick, impactful decisions, particularly under pressure during matches
Proven track record of developing young talent and helping players progress in their careers
The ability to manage long hours and maintain focus throughout the season, including during intense travel and match schedules

This position requires valid criminal background clearances in the state of PA:
PA Child Abuse History Clearance
PA State Police Criminal Record Check
FBI Criminal Background Check (via fingerprinting)
Annual Safe Sport Certification

OUR PERKS

Comprehensive benefits package including three medical options, vision and dental coverage, including flexible spending & health savings accounts
Pre-tax and Roth 401k (up to 4% is matched, after eligibility period)
Company-paid life insurance and disability
Wellness reimbursements
50% merchandise discount
Other league and partner discounts
Complimentary or discounted tickets
24/7 state-of-the-art Fitness Center, locker rooms, and Sportsplex (coming soon!)
On-site Café with grab-and-go options, salad bar, and grill!

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.