Job Description
The Manager of Human Performance will lead the design, coordination, and execution of all athletic performance, strength, and conditioning, recovery, and nutrition programs for Team Penske’s NASCAR, IndyCar, and IMSA pit crew teams. This role is responsible for ensuring that every crew member’s physical preparation meets the demands of elite motorsport competition ² maximizing speed, precision, endurance, and resilience.
The Director will integrate sports science, cutting-edge training methodologies, and world-class coaching to enhance performance, mitigate injury, and extend career longevity for all pit crew members. This leader will oversee individual and team training plans, data-driven performance monitoring, recovery strategies, and the optimal use of facilities and equipment.
Responsibilities
- Performance Program Leadership
- Design, implement, and oversee comprehensive strength, conditioning, athletic development, recovery and nutrition programs tailored to the unique demands of pit crew roles across NASCAR, IndyCar, and IMSA.
- Technical Coaching & Instruction
- Instruct pit crew members in proper movement mechanics, lifting techniques, and specialized drills to ensure peak performance and injury prevention.
- Holistic Athlete Support
- Advise athletes on recovery strategies, hydration, mobility, and mental focus to optimize readiness for both training and competition.
- Individual & Group Training Plans
- Create targeted, role-specific plans for individuals and group sessions, integrating strength, power, agility, reaction time, and cardiovascular conditioning.
- Sports Science & Data Analytics
- Utilize and interpret performance technologies (force plates, GPS/athlete tracking, velocity-based training, functional movement assessments) to track progress, identify performance gaps, and refine training plans.
- Collaboration with Pit Crew Coaches & Sports Medicine
- Coordinate with coaching staff to align physical training with race preparation and strategy. Partner with sports medicine professionals to create injury prevention and rehabilitation protocols.
- Performance Monitoring
- Observe and evaluate athlete readiness and physical status, recognizing signs of fatigue, stress, or injury, and taking immediate action when necessary.
- Facility & Equipment Oversight
- Maintain training facilities, recovery areas, and performance equipment at the highest standards of cleanliness, safety, and functionality.
- Continuous Innovation
- Stay current with the latest performance research, technology, and methodologies to maintain Team Penske’s competitive edge.
Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Exercise Science, Physiology, Kinesiology, or related field required; Master’s degree preferred.
- Minimum 5 years of experience as a Strength & Conditioning or Sports Performance Coach within a professional or high-level collegiate sports program.
- Certifications: Required CSCS (NSCA) or CSCCa. USAW and RMP Preferred.
- Demonstrated expertise in biomechanics, strength training, sprint mechanics, plyometrics, functional movement, and applied sports science.
- Demonstrated understanding of the Hierarchy of Athletic Development and how to practically apply in real life scenarios.
- Demonstrated ability to effectively communicate coaching points and correct all details pertinent to athlete health and performance in real time.
- Demonstrated ability to educate the group while coaching both groups and individuals.
- Proficiency with performance monitoring technologies (force plate testing, athlete tracking, VBT systems, functional movement assessments).
- Strong understanding of injury prevention principles and rehabilitation protocols.
- Demonstrated desire to continue education and remain “cutting edge” in philosophies, techniques and practical application.
- Knowledge of sports nutrition and hydration strategies for elite athletes.
- Proven ability to lead, motivate, and inspire athletes in a high-pressure, performance-driven environment.
- Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills.
- Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, PowerPoint, Outlook).
- Physically capable of demonstrating and/or assisting in the execution of training exercises
