First Team Nutritionist / Dietitian

First Team Nutritionist / Dietitian – Job Description 

Job Title: First Team Nutritionist / Dietitian

Department: Medical & Sports Science

Reports To: Head of Medical / Chief Medical Officer

Location: Club Training Ground & Match Venues

Contract Type: Full-Time

Job Summary:

The First Team Nutritionist / Dietitian is responsible for developing and implementing nutrition plans that optimize player performance, recovery, and overall health. The role involves working closely with the medical, sports science, and coaching staff to ensure players follow personalized, evidence-based dietary programs. The Nutritionist also provides education on meal planning, supplementation, hydration strategies, and body composition management.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Nutrition Planning & Player Assessment

• Develop and oversee individualized nutrition plans based on each player's energy needs, playing position, body composition, and fitness goals.
• Conduct body composition assessments (e.g., skinfold measurements, DEXA scans) to track changes in muscle mass and fat percentage.
• Monitor nutrient intake, hydration levels, and supplementation to ensure optimal performance and recovery.
• Adjust meal plans based on injury status, illness, or travel schedules to support rehabilitation and recovery.

2. Meal Planning & Dietary Support

• Work with chefs and catering staff to design and oversee team meal plans at the training ground and on matchdays.
• Ensure pre-match, during-match, and post-match meals meet the energy demands of training and competition.
• Provide guidance on nutrition for long-haul travel and tournament periods to minimize fatigue and optimize recovery.
• Collaborate with club chefs to ensure high-quality, nutritious food options are available for players.

3. Supplementation & Hydration Strategies

• Develop safe and effective hydration strategies to maintain fluid balance before, during, and after matches.
• Monitor the use of supplements and ensure compliance with FIFA/WADA anti-doping regulations.
• Recommend safe and scientifically supported supplements for performance and recovery enhancement.
• Conduct sweat and electrolyte testing to personalize hydration and recovery protocols.

4. Player Education & Workshops

• Conduct educational sessions and workshops on nutrition, meal preparation, and hydration strategies.
• Teach players how to make informed food choices at home and while traveling.
• Provide 1-on-1 consultations to players with specific dietary needs (e.g., food allergies, vegan/vegetarian diets).
• Educate academy players on foundational sports nutrition to prepare them for professional football.

5. Injury & Recovery Nutrition

• Develop nutrition plans that accelerate injury recovery by incorporating anti-inflammatory and muscle-repairing foods.
• Work closely with physiotherapists and medical staff to optimize recovery through targeted dietary strategies.
• Adjust dietary plans for players recovering from surgery or long-term injuries to prevent muscle loss and support healing.

6. Research & Data Analysis

• Stay up to date with scientific research in sports nutrition and performance optimization.
• Use nutritional tracking tools and software to monitor player dietary intake and adjust plans accordingly.
• Analyze performance data in relation to diet to identify areas for improvement.