Academy Equipment Manager

Chicago Fire•Chicago, IL

10d•Onsite

About The Position

The Chicago Fire Football Clubs is seeking a dedicated Academy Equipment Manager to oversee the management and maintenance of all soccer-related gear and supplies for all Academy teams. This role is crucial for ensuring that our athletes have access to safe and high-quality equipment, enhancing their training and competition experience. This role will directly report to the First Team Equipment Manager.

Requirements

Minimum of 1 – 2 years of previous experience in equipment management, team operations, or athletic support, preferably in a soccer or sports environment.
Strong organizational, inventory management, and time-management skills with strong attention to detail.
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work collaboratively in a team environment.
Ability to adapt in a fast-paced environment.
Must be able to move and/or lift up to 50 pounds.
Ability to stand and walk extended periods of time.
Ability to work non-traditional hours in non-traditional settings, including all home games, traveling for away games, or other work events that fall on nights, weekends, and/or holidays.

Nice To Haves

Bachelor’s degree in sports management or related field.
Passion for soccer and a commitment to supporting the development of young athletes.
Experience in major league sports or collegiate sporting environment.

Responsibilities

Manage and oversee all Academy equipment inventory, including uniforms, training equipment, apparel, and match-day gear.
Ensure all equipment is properly maintained, organized, and readily available for all training sessions, matches, and other Academy activities.
Coordinate the distribution, collection, and replacement of equipment for players and coaching staff, ensuring accurate inventory records and accountability.
Assist in the setup, breakdown, transportation, and storage of equipment for training sessions, home and away matches, tournaments, and special events.
Maintain detailed records of equipment usage, repairs, and maintenance schedules.
Partner with coaches, team administration, and Academy leadership to evaluate equipment needs, recommend purchases, and support budget planning.
Implement and enforce handling, storage, and safety protocols to ensure compliance with organizational standards and best practices.
Travel with Academy teams as required to provide operational and equipment support during matches and other team events.
Perform other duties, special projects, and ad hoc assignments as directed to support Academy operations, player development initiatives, and organizational objectives.