How to Get a Job With MLB: A Guide to Making America’s Pastime Your Career

Have you ever dreamed of working in Major League Baseball (MLB)? If so, you’re not alone –thousands of sports industry professionals chase the opportunity to combine their career with their passion for America’s pastime.

Whether you’re fresh out of college or looking to pivot your career, landing MLB jobs requires strategy, persistence, and the right approach – the path to working in professional baseball isn’t just about knowing your batting averages or ERA stats.

Ready to step up to the plate? Let’s explore how to get a job in the MLB.

The State of Hiring in Professional Baseball

Professional baseball has transformed dramatically over the past decade. Today’s MLB is a data-driven, tech-savvy industry that mirrors Fortune 500 companies in complexity and sophistication. The hiring landscape reflects this evolution. Offering career opportunities for candidates with diverse backgrounds, MLB teams employ software developers, social media managers, business analysts, and other front office jobs alongside traditional roles like coaches and scouts.

Additionally, the league’s financial health is enabling steady job growth across the organization. In 2024, MLB reported a record-breaking $12.1 billion in revenue, supporting not just the 30 major league teams but also their minor league affiliates and spring training facilities.

Types of Jobs Available in MLB

The variety of MLB team jobs might surprise you. While everyone knows about managers and players, each organization employs hundreds of people across numerous departments. Here are a few examples of the types of jobs with MLB:

Baseball Operations: Baseball operations jobs include traditional roles like scouts, coaches, and player development staff, plus modern additions like quantitative analysts and biomechanics specialists. These positions require deep baseball knowledge but also demand technical skills.

Business Operations: Business operations roles encompass ticket sales, corporate partnerships, marketing, and fan experience positions. Teams need professionals who can drive revenue while creating memorable experiences for millions of fans annually.

Technology and Analytics: These types of roles represent one of the fastest-growing areas in the world of MLB jobs. Teams hire software engineers, data scientists, and IT specialists to maintain everything from player tracking systems to mobile apps and customer databases.

Media and Communications: Media and communication career titles include broadcasters, content creators, social media managers, and public relations specialists. With teams producing hundreds of hours of content annually, these positions offer creative professionals exciting opportunities.

Facilities and Operations: From groundskeeping to security to food service management, these off-the-field roles ensure smooth operations during games and events.

Finance and Administration: Like any large organization, teams need strong administrative foundations to keep them running smoothly. Finance and administration jobs include accounting, human resources, legal affairs, and executive support.

In addition, many MLB entry-level jobs exist, especially in sales, guest services, and seasonal operations. These positions often serve as stepping stones to full-time opportunities and provide valuable industry experience.

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6 Skills MLB Employers Look for in Candidates

Understanding what MLB organizations value in candidates gives you an advantage in your job search. While specific requirements vary by position, certain skills appear consistently across job postings. Here are six in-demand proficiencies for MLB jobs:

1. Communication Skills: Whether you’re explaining complex analytics to coaches, writing marketing copy, or presenting to executives, clear communication separates strong candidates from the pack.

2. Analytical Thinking: You don’t need a statistics degree, but comfort with numbers and data interpretation is essential to many MLB careers. For example, marketing professionals use analytics to optimize campaigns, while operations staff track efficiency metrics.

3. Technology Proficiency: Most positions require at least basic familiarity with databases, spreadsheets, and industry-specific software. Advanced technical skills in programming, web development, or data visualization can set you apart.

4. Adaptability: Adaptability is vital in baseball’s unpredictable environment. Seasons bring constant changes in priorities, schedules, and demands. Employers seek candidates who thrive in dynamic situations and can juggle multiple responsibilities effectively.

5. Relationship-Building: Whether you’re working with players, fans, corporate partners, or media, relationship-building skills drive success across baseball organizations.

6. Baseball Knowledge: Candidates with genuine love of baseball and understanding of the game have a leg up in their job search. Let your passion for baseball help you stand out. 

Advice for Landing MLB Jobs

Competition for MLB careers is fierce, but smart job seekers can find their opening with the right approach. Here’s how to maximize your chances of success.

Start With Internships

MLB-specific internships provide invaluable industry experience and networking opportunities. Most teams offer summer internship programs covering various departments. And, the MLB Diversity Fellowship Program specifically supports underrepresented candidates seeking careers in baseball operations. Don’t overlook minor league internships either – they often offer more hands-on experience and can lead to major league opportunities.

Network Strategically

The sports industry is exceptionally relationship-driven. Attend industry conferences like the Baseball Winter Meetings or Society for American Baseball Research conventions. Join professional organizations and participate in local baseball events. LinkedIn connections with current MLB employees can provide insights into company culture and upcoming opportunities. You might even set up informational interviews with current MLB employees to better understand different career paths and grow your network.

Develop Relevant Skills Proactively

Review job postings for MLB roles you’d like to pursue and look for the skills they require. Note the proficiencies you don’t possess or need to further develop and focus on honing those abilities. Then, seek out opportunities – whether formal degrees or online course certifications – to fill in gaps.

Tailor Your Applications

A customized resume and cover letter go a long way in impressing potential MLB employers and “beating the bots.” Research each organization’s recent initiatives, challenges, and values; then, customize your materials to show how your background addresses their specific needs. Also, carefully review the job posting for the role you’re applying for and make sure you include keywords (hard and soft skills, certifications, etc.) from the job description in your resume.

Consider Alternative Entry Points

Jobs with MLB teams are in high demand and ultra-competitive, so it can be beneficial to explore alternative entry points to get your foot in the door. Sports agencies, vendor companies, and consulting firms that work with teams can provide industry experience and connections. Also consider looking for opportunities with broadcasting networks, sports media companies, and technology firms that serve the baseball realm.

Be Prepared for the Lifestyle

Baseball careers often require irregular hours, travel, and seasonal intensity. Demonstrate your understanding of these demands and your willingness to embrace them. Teams value candidates who realistically assess the commitment required.

Your Path to the Big Leagues Awaits

Landing a job in MLB requires patience, preparation, and persistence. The journey to working in professional baseball may take some time, but the destination makes the effort worthwhile.

Luckily, you’re already in the right place – start your hunt on WorkInSports and check out more of our career advice resources to make your job search a home run.