Senior Specialist - Sports Science

In short

Sports Science is the engine of innovation at On. You will design and carry out high impact research, in the field and in the lab, to define the next frontier of performance footwear. Bridging the gap between science and performance, you’ll collaborate with interdisciplinary teams of developers, designers, PMs, and engineers to translate biomechanical insights into groundbreaking product advancements. Your mission is to elevate athlete performance and craft unique consumer experiences by pushing the boundaries of sports science.
As a Sr Specialist, you will report to the Senior Lead of Sports Science on the Sports Science team.

Your mission

- Pioneer the Scientific Frontier: Architect and spearhead high-impact, proprietary research to engineer the next breakthroughs in footwear technology. You are responsible for deconstructing complex physiological and biomechanical phenomena into advanced experimental frameworks that redefine the absolute limits of human performance.

- Command Evidence-Based Innovation: Serve as the authoritative scientific bridge, distilling high-level biomechanical data into disruptive product features. You will direct design and development teams with elite-level technical insights, providing the scientific mandate required to execute bold, industry-leading performance innovations.

- Validate Global Product Standards: Orchestrate a rigorous scientific audit of the innovation lifecycle, benchmarking interdisciplinary outputs against elite performance metrics. You will hold the final authority at key development milestones, delivering the data-backed "green light" that ensures every product creates a revolutionary, evidence-verified athlete experience.

Your story

- PhD in Sports Science, Kinesiology or Mechanical Engineering focused on Biomechanics
- 3+ years of progressive working experience in sports science and/or engineering environment, preferably related to footwear
- Experience developing and executing rigorous testing methodologies within agile environments
- Expertise in biomechanical research tools including motion capture, force plates, IMU’s, and metabolic analyzers with a strong understanding of applications to athlete performance
- Proficiency in Python, MATLAB and Visual3D and other relevant software
- Entrepreneurial mindset and ability to work independently as well as part of a team
- Excellent time management, prioritization skills and ability to balance short-term tasks with long-term goals
- Excellent communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills
- Action orientated through execution with a continued growth mindset
- Fluent in English (written and spoken).

Meet the team

The Sports Science Lab (SSL) is an innovative team working to convert cutting-edge theories into exceptional performance products. Our team consists of a great mix of different backgrounds and experiences which blend into a lively, high-energy environment. We’re quick to support each other on research projects as we strive to execute high-impact research. By bridging the gap between controlled laboratory data and real-world athletic performance, we ensure that every insight we uncover leads to a measurable advantage on the field.

What we offer

On is a place that is centered around growth and progress. We offer an environment designed to give people the tools to develop holistically – to stay active, to learn, explore and innovate. Our distinctive approach combines a supportive, team-oriented atmosphere, with access to personal self-care for both physical and mental well-being, so each person is led by purpose.

On is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to creating a work environment that is fair and inclusive, where all decisions related to recruitment, advancement, and retention are free of discrimination.