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How much do director exercise science jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for director exercise science in the United States is $28.71, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.51 and $30.29 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the highest-paying job in exercise science?

The highest-paying roles in exercise science typically include sports medicine physicians, exercise physiologists with advanced certifications, and clinical exercise specialists working in cardiac or pulmonary rehab, often earning six-figure salaries. Executive positions such as director of exercise science or sports performance director can also offer high compensation, especially with extensive experience and advanced degrees. These roles usually require specialized skills, certifications, and experience in clinical or research settings.

What is the highest-paying job in fitness?

The highest-paying jobs in fitness often include roles such as Director of Exercise Science, sports medicine physicians, and high-level athletic trainers, especially those working with professional teams or in clinical settings. These positions typically require advanced degrees, certifications, and extensive experience, and they offer salaries significantly above average in the fitness industry.

What can I do with my degree in exercise science?

A degree in exercise science prepares individuals for careers such as exercise physiologists, personal trainers, strength and conditioning coaches, and rehabilitation specialists. These roles often involve working in fitness centers, healthcare settings, or sports organizations, and may require certifications like ACSM or NSCA. The degree provides a foundation in anatomy, physiology, and fitness assessment, enabling professionals to develop and implement exercise programs for diverse populations.

What does a Director of Exercise Science do?

A Director of Exercise Science oversees programs, research, and staff related to exercise science within an organization, such as a university, fitness center, or health system. They are responsible for developing curricula, managing budgets, leading research initiatives, and ensuring compliance with health and safety standards. Additionally, they may supervise faculty or trainers, coordinate community outreach, and stay updated with the latest advancements in exercise science. Their goal is to promote physical fitness, wellness, and evidence-based practices through leadership and innovation.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Director of Exercise Science, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Director of Exercise Science, you need an advanced degree in exercise science or a related field, extensive experience in program development, and a strong understanding of exercise physiology. Familiarity with research methodologies, statistical analysis software, and relevant certifications such as ACSM or NSCA are often required. Exceptional leadership, communication, and organizational skills help you guide teams, collaborate across departments, and effectively manage resources. These competencies are crucial for ensuring high-quality program delivery, evidence-based decision-making, and impactful outcomes in health and fitness initiatives.

What is the difference between Director Exercise Science vs Exercise Physiologist?

AspectDirector Exercise ScienceExercise Physiologist
CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Exercise Science, certifications like ACSM or NSCABachelor's or Master's in Exercise Science, ACSM or NSCA certification
Work EnvironmentResearch settings, academic institutions, sports organizationsClinics, hospitals, fitness centers, rehab facilities
Employer & IndustryUniversities, sports teams, research institutionsHealthcare facilities, wellness centers, rehabilitation clinics

While both roles require similar credentials and certifications, the Director Exercise Science typically oversees research, program development, and strategic planning in academic or sports settings. In contrast, Exercise Physiologists focus on patient assessment, designing exercise programs, and rehabilitation in clinical environments. The roles differ mainly in scope and work environment, with the director holding a leadership position and the physiologist working directly with clients.

How does a Director of Exercise Science typically collaborate with other departments or professionals within an organization?

A Director of Exercise Science frequently works alongside departments such as physical therapy, athletic training, nutrition, and wellness to create comprehensive health programs. This collaboration ensures that exercise protocols are integrated with broader health and wellness strategies, often requiring regular meetings and interdisciplinary project work. The role also involves coordinating with administrative staff to align resources and reporting outcomes to senior leadership, making strong communication and teamwork essential for success.

What is the highest paid job in sports science?

The highest paid jobs in sports science are often senior roles such as Director of Exercise Science or sports performance director, with salaries exceeding $100,000 annually. These positions typically require advanced degrees, extensive experience, and leadership skills in athletic training, sports medicine, or performance analysis.
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Director Exercise Science jobs near you
Infographic showing various Director Exercise Science job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $59,715 per year, or $28.7 per hour.
Exercise Science Program Director- Faculty/Instructor

Exercise Science Program Director- Faculty/Instructor

SOUTH COLLEGE

Knoxville, TN • On-site

Other

Re-posted 9 days ago

Job description

Description

South College - We are one of the nation's fastest growing institutions of higher learning ... come grow your career with us. In order to fully meet our Mission to our students, we require a diverse combination of perspectives, backgrounds, life experiences, and ideas from our faculty and staff and will provide them with an equitable and inclusive work environment -where respect and open interchange of ideas are at the heart of that culture.


20,000 Students

10 Campuses

Competency Based Education

Online


Exercise Science Program Director Description

South College Knoxville seeks candidates for a full-time Exercise Science Program Director and faculty member. Successful candidates will have a minimum of a terminal degree in a related field, and preference will be given to candidates who have successfully taught courses in the online format.


The position is full-time on-site and will report directly to the Dean of Academics.


Responsibilities

  • The Program Director will teach sixteen (16) college-level courses per year.
  • Develop and implement courses for departmental program.
  • Develop strategies, evaluate progress, and implement policies that aid in student retention.
  • Monitor curricula to ensure compliance with South College standards and other accrediting bodies.
  • Monitor curricula to ensure uniform delivery and consistency within courses.
  • Assume responsibility for the logistics of course delivery including master course shells, syllabi, and textbooks.
  • Assign courses to full-time and adjunct faculty in accordance with South College's "Faculty Workloads Governing Principles for Faculty".
  • Manage recruitment, selection, training, evaluation, retention, and success of full-time and adjunct faculty.
  • Administer South College's program for professional growth and development, in-service training, and faculty meetings for program faculty.
  • Monitor all online courses to ensure timely student email responses from faculty, faculty grading turnaround (72 hours), and other items necessary for successful online course administration.
  • Develop faculty who can deliver instruction through online learning to meet the strategic goals of South College.
  • Participate in program evaluations and audits and implement recommendations as requested.
  • Assist in program budgetary needs.

Requirements

Education

  • Doctoral Degree in Exercise Science is preferred, minimum of a master's degree in Exercise Science is required.

Experience

  • Minimum 3 years experience in a leadership position. 
  • Minimum 3 years of experience in a CAAHEP accredited program.
  • Experience in developing a CAAHEP accredited program is preferred. 
  • Relevant professional experience in Exercise Science. 

Apply