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Clinical Exercise Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

$22.07 - $34.21/hr

Bachelor's Degree focusing on clinical patient care * Master's Degree for Physiologist role required * Specify Degree(s): Exercise Physiology, Exercise Science, or Kinesiology * 1-2 years of previous ...

Exercise Physiologist

San Diego, CA · On-site

$80K - $83K/yr

Exercise Physiologist Location US-CA-San Diego Job ID 350904 Pos. Category Therapy - Chiropractor ... Work is performed in a work/clinical site environment. Involves occasional exposure to communicable ...

The Exercise Physiologist instructs participant in the proper principle of exercise, physical ... Work is performed in a work/clinical site environment. Involves occasional exposure to communicable ...

Exercise Physiologist

San Diego, CA · On-site

$80K - $83K/yr

The Exercise Physiologist instructs participant in the proper principle of exercise, physical ... Work is performed in a work/clinical site environment. Involves occasional exposure to communicable ...

The Exercise Physiologist instructs participant in the proper principle of exercise, physical ... Work is performed in a work/clinical site environment. Involves occasional exposure to communicable ...

Exercise Physiologist

San Diego, CA · On-site

$80K - $83K/yr

The Exercise Physiologist instructs participant in the proper principle ofexercise, physical ... Work is performed in a work/clinical site environment. Involves occasional exposure to ...

Showing results 21-40

Clinical Exercise information

See California salary details

$5

$26

$57

How much do clinical exercise jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for clinical exercise in California is $26.01, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.23 and $30.82 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a clinical exercise physiologist?

Clinical exercise physiologists are healthcare professionals who specialize in using exercise and physical activity to help patients prevent, manage, and recover from chronic diseases and conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, pulmonary disease, and obesity. They assess patients' fitness levels, develop personalized exercise programs, and monitor progress to improve overall health and quality of life. Clinical exercise physiologists often work in hospitals, rehabilitation centers, or private practice, collaborating closely with physicians and other healthcare providers.

What are some common challenges faced by clinical exercise physiologists when working with patients in a healthcare setting?

Clinical Exercise Physiologists often encounter challenges such as motivating patients who have chronic conditions or low physical activity levels, adapting exercise programs to accommodate a wide range of medical needs, and collaborating with multidisciplinary healthcare teams to ensure patient safety and optimal outcomes. Additionally, maintaining up-to-date knowledge of clinical guidelines and documenting patient progress accurately are essential aspects of the role. Effective communication and empathy are key to overcoming these challenges and achieving positive results for patients.

What can I do with a clinical exercise science degree?

A clinical exercise science degree prepares individuals for roles such as exercise physiologists, cardiac rehabilitation specialists, and fitness trainers. Graduates often work in hospitals, clinics, or wellness centers, applying knowledge of human physiology, exercise testing, and rehabilitation techniques, sometimes requiring certification like ACSM or NSCA. The degree provides a foundation for careers focused on improving patient health and physical function through exercise programs.

How to become a clinical exercise specialist?

To become a clinical exercise specialist, individuals typically need a bachelor's degree in exercise science, kinesiology, or a related field, along with certification such as the ACSM Certified Clinical Exercise Physiologist (CCEP). Relevant skills include knowledge of cardiovascular and pulmonary conditions, and certification often requires practical experience and passing an exam. Continuing education is also important to maintain certification and stay current with industry standards.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a clinical exercise physiologist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Clinical Exercise Physiologist, you need a solid background in exercise science, physiology, and health assessment, often supported by a degree in exercise physiology or a related field. Familiarity with diagnostic tools like metabolic carts, ECG machines, and certifications such as ACSM Clinical Exercise Physiologist (CEP) are typically required. Strong interpersonal skills, motivational ability, and clear communication help build rapport with patients and healthcare teams. These competencies ensure effective patient assessment, safe exercise prescription, and improved health outcomes in clinical settings.

What does a clinical exercise specialist do?

A clinical exercise specialist designs and supervises individualized exercise programs for patients with chronic diseases or health conditions, such as cardiovascular or metabolic disorders. They assess patients' fitness levels, monitor progress, and often work in healthcare or rehabilitation settings, requiring knowledge of exercise science and certification such as ACSM or NSCA. Their goal is to improve health outcomes and functional capacity through tailored exercise interventions.

What is the difference between Clinical Exercise vs Physical Therapist?

AspectClinical ExercisePhysical Therapist
CredentialsCertified Clinical Exercise Physiologist (ACSM-CEP), CPR certificationDoctor of Physical Therapy (DPT), state licensure, CPR certification
Work EnvironmentHospitals, outpatient clinics, rehab centers, fitness facilitiesHospitals, outpatient clinics, rehab centers, private practices
Job FocusDesigning exercise programs for chronic disease management and rehabilitationDiagnosing and treating musculoskeletal, neurological, and other physical impairments
Industry UsageHealthcare, fitness, rehabilitationHealthcare, rehabilitation, sports medicine

Both Clinical Exercise professionals and Physical Therapists work in healthcare settings and focus on patient rehabilitation. However, Clinical Exercise specialists primarily develop exercise programs for chronic disease management, while Physical Therapists diagnose and treat a broader range of physical impairments. Their credentials, work environments, and job responsibilities overlap but serve different roles within patient care.

Infographic showing various Clinical Exercise job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 8% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,093 per year, or $26 per hour.

$22.07 - $34.21/hr

Part-time

Medical, Retirement

Posted 4 days ago


Trinity Health rating

6.6

Company rating: 6.6 out of 10

Based on 354 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

572nd of 887 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Employment Type:Part timeShift:Day ShiftDescription:

Employment Type:

Registry

Shift:

Day Shift

Loyola Medicine, a member of Trinity Health, is a nationally ranked academic, quaternary care system based in Chicago's western suburbs. Loyola Medicine Transport is based at Loyola University Medical Center and is part of a three-hospital system includingLoyola University Medical Center,Gottlieb Memorial Hospital, andMacNeal Hospital.

If you are a CARDIAC REHAB EXERCISE SPECIALIST who's interested in working for a regional leader in healthcare, delivering compassionate care and improving the lives of those in our communities, join the Loyola team and become Loyola Strong!

What you'll do:

The Exercise Specialist assists with the daily operational flow of the stress labs and procedureassignments. This role independently supervises patients undergoing a variety of non-invasive cardiacdiagnostic procedures including exercise stress echocardiograms, oxygen consumption, and non-imagingtreadmill stress tests, along with assessing clients entering cardiac rehabilitation outpatient phases.

We offer our Cardiac Rehab Exercise Specialists/Physiologists:

  • DailyPay! Work today, Get paid today
  • 403B with Employer Match
  • On Site Fitness Center (Gottlieb Memorial Hospital & Loyola University Medical Center)
  • Childcare Employee Discount at Gottlieb's Child Development Center
  • Referral Rewards
  • Strong Team Culture
  • Career Growth Opportunities

What you'll need for this job:

  • Bachelor's Degree focusing on clinical patient care
  • Master's Degree for Physiologist role required
  • Specify Degree(s): Exercise Physiology, Exercise Science, or Kinesiology
  • 1-2 years of previous job-related experience with direct patient care performing cardiac stress tests/cardiac rehabilitation
  • Preferred: 3-5 years of previous job-related experience
  • Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR); Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) required within six months of hire; Certification or Registration from the American College of Sports Medicine in one of the following within 90 days of hire: Exercise Test Technologist (Stress Testing), Clinical Exercise Specialist (Stress Testing), or Certified Clinical Exercise Physiologist (required for Cardiac Rehabilitation)

Our Promise to You:

Joining Loyola Medicine is being a part of an organization that treats the human spirit in our patients and fellow colleagues. We are a part of a community which believes in giving back to those we serve.

  • We serve together in the spirit of the Gospel as a compassionate and transforming healing presence within our communities
  • We live and breathe our guiding behaviors: we support each other in serving, we communicate openly, honestly, respectfully, and directly, we are fully present, we are all accountable, we trust and assume goodness in intentions, and we are continuous learners
Pay Range: $22.07 - 34.21 per hourActual compensation will fall within the range but may vary based on factors such as experience, qualifications, education, location, licensure, certification requirements, and comparisons to colleagues in similar roles.

Benefits:

ClickorcopyURLto your browserwww.trinity-health.org/sites/default/files/my-benefits/Health-and-Wellbeing/Compliance/Illinois-Transparency-Law/Trinity-Health-Summary-of-Benefits-Illinois-Job-Req-Discloser-Law.pdf

Our Commitment

Rooted in our Mission and Core Values, we honor the dignity of every person and recognize the unique perspectives, experiences, and talents each colleague brings. By finding common ground and embracing our differences, we grow stronger together and deliver more compassionate, person-centered care. We are an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other status protected by federal, state, or local law.


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About Trinity Health

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Trinity Health Ann Arbor is a 537 -bed teaching hospital located on 340 acre campus. Recognized by IBM Watson as a Top 100 Hospital and #1 Teaching Hospital, Trinity Health Ann Arbor has been a leading health care provider for more than 100 years. Trinity Health has received numerous local and national awards in recognition of our leadership, quality outcomes, and clinical excellence.

Industry

Health care and social assistance

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Livonia, MI, US