Matatū Lead Sports Scientist / Crusaders Assistant Sports Scientist
Crusaders Rugby / Matatū
Job Type
Working pattern not stated; seasonal allocation across two programmes
Location
Christchurch, Canterbury, New Zealand
Salary
Not disclosed
Closing Date
14 October 2026
Classification
IQF Level 6
Job Summary
Lead the collection, analysis and application of sport-science information across Matatū while supporting the Crusaders' high-performance programme. Build GPS, wellness, testing and performance dashboards to inform player preparation, load management and recovery. Work with S&C, coaching and medical practitioners on individual programmes, injury prevention, rehabilitation and return-to-performance decisions. Contribute to gym and field coaching, research projects and the improvement of reporting systems across the two rugby environments.
IUSCA IQF Classification
Level 6. The practitioner leads sport-science systems, monitoring, data interpretation and applied research for Matatū and provides assistant sport-science support to the Crusaders. The position description confirms no direct reports unless separately agreed and limited delegated spending authority, placing it at autonomous specialist practice rather than department-wide Level 7 leadership. A relevant tertiary qualification is required; postgraduate study is desirable. No named professional certification body is specified.
Associated IUSCA IQF Certification
IUSCA IQF Level 6 Accredited International Strength and Conditioning Practitioner (aISCP)
Salary and Role Alignment
Grey. The advertised salary is not disclosed, so salary alignment cannot be fully assessed under the IUSCA IQF Role Classification & Salary Alignment methodology. IUSCA Indicative Minimum Salary Benchmark: NZD $105,000 per year on a full-time-equivalent basis, subject to confirmation of contracted hours. This reflects independent scientific responsibility for an elite women's programme, dual-programme delivery, specialist monitoring and data systems, and interdisciplinary support.
IUSCA Alignment Statement
This role has been classified by IUSCA using publicly available information at the time of review and the published IQF Role Classification & Salary Alignment methodology. The IQF classification, salary alignment assessment and associated IUSCA IQF certification represent IUSCA's assessment of the advertised role. They do not alter or replace the employer's stated qualification, certification or eligibility requirements and do not imply employer endorsement, approval of, or affiliation with IUSCA. Vacancy information may change, and applicants should review and verify the original employer advert before applying.