LEAD GOALKEEPING COACH U16S-U21S in Sheffield

Sheffield United FC Academy is committed to being one of the leading and most innovative developers of talent in the country, driven by our ambition to Out Run, Out Fight, Out Play the opposition. An opportunity has arisen for a Lead Goalkeeping Coach (U16s-U21s) to join the Academy at Sheffield United Football Club and play a key role in the development of goalkeepers across the professional development phase. The role requires the ability to plan, deliver, and review high-quality, age-appropriate coaching sessions, monitor goalkeeper progression through individual learning plans, and work collaboratively with coaches and multi-disciplinary staff. The successful candidate will also contribute to the identification and recruitment of future talent, helping to support the long-term success of the Academy's goalkeeping pathway.

Role Responsibilities

• Development of goalkeepers from U16s-U21s, including monitoring and providing support to the club's Head of Goalkeeping.
• Ensure the monitoring of goalkeepers' performance across the Academy, ensuring all goalkeepers in the Academy have an 'Individual Learning Plan' which is consistently delivered, reviewed and adapted, with appropriate opportunities to practice on the areas highlighted.
• Liaise closely with the Lead Phase Coaches and Academy Coaches throughout the age groups regarding training, games and progress.
• Along with the Goalkeeping Department, develop and monitor age-appropriate coaching curriculums and development programmes across the Academy and ensuring there is an integrated approach with outfield players.
• Plan, deliver and evaluate coaching sessions in line with the Academy's GK coaching curriculum.
• Work effectively with other departments to ensure the Academy operates in a multi-disciplinary environment and to ensure all goalkeepers are fully prepared and have a comprehensive development programme.
• Assist with administrative tasks related to the role, including general organisation, recording of sessions, player reviews, learning objectives, and weekly reflections through the PMA and other systems.
• Contribute to the scouting and recruiting process where appropriate.
• Attend and contribute to meetings as directed by the Head of Goalkeeping/Head of Academy/Head of Coaching.
• Attend at least five hours of FA in-service training per year and ensure license maintenance requirements are kept up to date.
• Actively support the Coaching Competency Framework (CCF) and undertake CPD organised by the club and take responsibility for your own professional development by accessing development opportunities provided by governing bodies and external organisations.
• Any other reasonable duties as requested by the Head of Goalkeeping/Head of Academy/Head of Coaching.

Club Wide Responsibilities

• To adhere to all Sheffield United Football Club's Safeguarding Policies and Procedures to foster an environment which protects from harm those defined as children and adults at risk.
• To report any concerns of a Safeguarding nature to the relevant parties and remain fully compliant with any applicable Safeguarding checks and due diligence and recognise your responsibility to the Club's Safeguarding agenda.
• To report any concerns of discrimination to the relevant parties and promote a welcoming and inclusive club environment for all.
• To adhere to the Club's Equality, Diversity and Inclusion policies, supporting the Club to create an environment which is inclusive and all-encompassing.

Essential Criteria For The Role

• Minimum UEFA B Goalkeeping Coaching Award.
• FA First Aid (Level 2 Emergency First Aid in Football).
• FA Safeguarding Children Workshop.
• Completion of an Enhanced DBS Check upon offer acceptance.
• FA Youth Modules 1, 2, 3.
• Experience of coaching young players.
• Experience in Youth Development.
• Experience of working within an Academy.
• Organisational skill.
• Excellent communication skills.
• Ability to communicate with parents/guardians.
• Ability to communicate with players of all age ranges.
• Ability to communicate with coaches across all phases.

Desirable Criteria For The Role

• UEFA A GK Award.
• Advanced Youth Award (GK Specific).
• Played to Academy level or beyond.
• Experience working with 1st Team or Senior Goalkeeper.

Our Benefits

• Hybrid Working Policy.
• 25 days annual leave as a minimum + Bank Holiday.
• Free eye care tests and vouchers for DSE users.
• Enhanced maternity & paternity scheme.
• Life insurance package.
• 20% discount on top of sale in the Club Store.
• 2 Volunteering days per year.
• 2 Tickets to every Men's Home league game.
• 4 Tickets to every Women's Home league game.
• Professional development opportunities.
• Westfield Health.
• 24/7 advice and information line, Online Health e-Hub, Structured counselling.
• 24/7 Doctorline (Phone or Webcam).
• MRI, CT and PET scanning services.
• Gym discounts and wellbeing resources via Westfield Health.
• Cash payouts in the event of death or permanent disability as a result of an accident.
• Exclusive rewards, discounts, and special offers from over 1,000 leading retailers, restaurants, and destinations.

Expected Interview Process

• Stage 1 - Standard Competency Based Question.
• Stage 2 - Practical Delivery Session.

Application Process

If you require a paper copy please contact the HR department or call 0114 253 7200. Completed application forms must be submitted via email stating the vacancy title in the subject or posted to HR, Sheffield United Football Club, Bramall Lane, Sheffield, S2 4SU. Closing Date: Monday 23rd February 2026. Please note that in the instance of high volumes of applications we may close this vacancy earlier than the closing date noted above.

Eligibility for Employment in the UK: In accordance with current legislative requirements the successful applicant must produce documentary verification of their eligibility to work in the UK and will not be allowed to start work until this has been received.

Equality and Diversity

Sheffield United FC is committed to the principle of equal opportunity in employment and its employment policies for recruitment, selection, training, development and promotion are designed to ensure that no job applicant or employee receives less favourable treatment on the grounds of race, colour, nationality, religion or belief, sex, sexual orientation, marital status, age, ethnic and national origin, disability or gender reassignment. Sheffield United FC are a Disability Confident Committed Employer. If you would like further information regarding the scheme and how we are able to support disabled persons within the workplace, then please contact our HR team.

Safer Recruitment

Sheffield United FC is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and adults at risk. The successful applicant will be required to undertake appropriate safeguarding checks as well as providing proof of right to work in the UK.