Head Physiotherapist

Organisation: Castleford Tigers
Salary: £55,000 - £60,000
Location: Castleford Tigers RLFC, West Yorkshire
Contract type: Permanent (Full time)
Closing date: 4 September 2025
Job Description: Castleford Tigers RLFC are seeking a highly motivated, experienced Head Physiotherapist to lead our medical services for the Men’s First Team. This pivotal role involves the leadership and delivery of physiotherapy provision across the squad, including injury prevention, treatment, and rehabilitation, while working collaboratively within a high-performance, multidisciplinary environment.

The postholder will work closely with the Head Coach, Director of Rugby, and Head of Medical Services, as well as managing and mentoring junior physiotherapists, sports therapists, and students. They will also oversee the day-to-day running of the medical department, supporting the health and performance of our playing group.

The successful applicant will be expected to attend all First Team fixtures (including friendlies, home, away, and abroad) and all First Team training sessions, providing match-day preparation, pitch-side trauma cover, and post-match care.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
- Lead on assessment, diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation of injuries in the senior playing squad.
- Oversee injury prevention strategies in collaboration with strength & conditioning staff.
- Plan and deliver individualised rehabilitation programmes for injured players.
- Provide mentorship, leadership, and development for assistant physiotherapists, interns, and students.
- Keep accurate, contemporaneous medical notes, contribute to injury surveillance and audits, and support governance requirements.
- Communicate effectively with players, coaches, performance staff, and medical colleagues to ensure a coordinated approach to player care.
- Maintain professional standards at all times and uphold RFL and HCPC/CSP guidelines.
- Commit to CPD, keeping abreast of current research and best practice.

ESSENTIAL CRITERIA
- BSc (Hons) Physiotherapy (minimum).
- HCPC and CSP Registered.
- Minimum 5 years post-graduate experience, including at least 2 years in elite full-time sport.
- Valid IMMOFP / PHICIS L3 / ATMMiF (or willingness to obtain).
- Full UK driving licence.
- Eligible to work in the UK.
- Willingness to work flexible hours, including evenings, weekends, and travel.
- Experience of supervising or mentoring junior staff/students.

DESIRABLE CRITERIA

- Previous experience in elite Rugby League or Rugby Union.
- Postgraduate qualifications in Sports Physiotherapy, Sports & Exercise Medicine, or related fields.
- NHS experience.
- Evidence of delivering and evaluating injury prevention programmes.
How to apply: Please send your CV and a covering letter (maximum one page A4) outlining your suitability for the role to: Dr Nick Raynor - Head of Medical Services nickraynor@castigers.com For informal inquiries, please contact Dr Raynor via the same email address. Important Note on Applications: Whilst we appreciate the usefulness of AI tools in the modern workplace, we strongly encourage applicants to use their own words when applying. This allows us to get a genuine understanding of your experience, motivations, and personality.