Academy Scout at Philadelphia Union Fc
Academy Scout
Philadelphia Union Fc
On-site
N/A
Full-time
Salary not listed
Posted 21 June 2026
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Job Description
Philadelphia Union are seeking an Academy Scout to play a key role in identifying, evaluating, recruiting, and tracking elite youth talent for one of Major League Soccer’s leading player development pathways.
Working under the Academy Director and Head of Academy Scouting, this role will support the execution of the club’s academy scouting strategy while operating within the Philadelphia Union’s integrated professional scouting structure, helping identify future talent for the Academy, Union II, and First Team.
Academy Scout
⚽ Key Responsibilities
- Manage day-to-day Academy scouting and recruitment operations
- Identify, monitor, and evaluate top talent across local, regional, and national markets
- Scout players through live observation and video analysis
- Analyse players and matches for the Academy, Union II, and First Team using club-defined criteria
- Maintain player benchmarks and reference points for internal and external comparisons
- Contribute to the ongoing development of the Academy Talent Identification framework
- Maintain and expand the Academy scouting database
- Ensure scouting reports, player evaluations, and recruitment records remain accurate and up to date
- Utilise scouting platforms, reporting systems, and video analysis tools aligned with the club’s methodology
- Manage communication within the Union Academy Scouting Network
- Build and maintain relationships with youth clubs, coaches, agents, and key stakeholders
- Identify emerging talent and market trends through extensive networking
- Organise scouting meetings, recruitment discussions, and communication with scouting contacts
- Attend weekly and monthly meetings with the Professional Scouting Department
- Collaborate with Academy, Union II, and First Team staff on player identification and pathway planning
- Support the evolution of the Academy scouting strategy and recruitment philosophy
- Ensure effective communication of recruitment information across departments
- Assist with administration of the club’s Residency Program
- Coordinate trialist visits and recruitment events
- Liaise with YSC Academy leadership regarding prospective student-athletes and residency candidates
Essential Requirements
- Minimum two years of scouting experience within football, preferably within a professional environment
- Bachelor’s degree or higher
- Extensive knowledge of local, regional, and national youth soccer environments, leagues, clubs, and associations
- Strong domestic and international football network
- Experience using scouting databases, player evaluation systems, and video analysis software
- Excellent organisational, communication, and relationship-building skills
- Ability to manage multiple projects and stakeholders simultaneously
- Strong understanding of player development pathways and academy environments
- Ability to evaluate talent using both objective and subjective assessment methods
⭐ Desirable
- Coaching and/or scouting qualifications
- Experience working within elite academy or professional football environments
- Knowledge of MLS, MLS NEXT, and youth development pathways
Personal Attributes
- Strong leadership and collaboration skills
- Alignment with the Philadelphia Union’s scouting methodology and values
- Passion for player development and talent identification
- Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, high-performance environment
- Flexible to travel extensively and work evenings, weekends, and holidays
Benefits Include
- Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage
- 401(k) with employer match
- Company-paid life insurance and disability coverage
- Wellness reimbursement programme
- 50% Philadelphia Union merchandise discount
- Complimentary and discounted match tickets
- Access to a state-of-the-art fitness centre and sports performance facilities
- On-site café and dining facilities
An outstanding opportunity to join one of North America’s most respected player development organisations and help identify the next generation of Philadelphia Union talent.