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Director Exercise Science Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Exercise Physiologist (Per Diem)

Marina, CA · On-site

$49.01 - $65.57/hr

... provides direct patient care for patients with cardiac, pulmonary, and other chronic diseases ... Education Bachelor's degree in Exercise Science, Exercise Physiology, or Kinesiology required.

$22.07 - $34.21/hr

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 ...

Exercise Physiologist

San Diego, CA · On-site

$65K - $70K/yr

Exercise Science, Exercise Physiology, Kinesiology or a related field of studyDegree must be from ... direct patient program creationJob-Related Skills/Competencies Concentra Core Competencies of ...

$22.07 - $34.21/hr

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 ...

Exercise Physiologist

San Diego, CA · On-site

$80K - $83K/yr

Exercise Science, Exercise Physiology, Kinesiology or a related field of study Degree must be from ... years of experience in direct patient program creation Job-Related Skills/Competencies • ...

$18.16 - $28.14/hr

Leads energizing, fun, safe, and educational group classes as directed by Fitness Manager to ... Bachelor's degree in Exercise Science. Minimum Experience: * Required: 1 year of experience ...

$18.16 - $28.14/hr

Leads energizing, fun, safe, and educational group classes as directed by Fitness Manager to ... Bachelor's degree in Exercise Science. Minimum Experience: * Required: 1 year of experience ...

Athletic Trainer

Quincy, CA · On-site

$5.1K - $6.5K/mo

... Director of Athletic Operations & Events, the athletic trainer assists in the development and ... Bachelor's in Physical Education, Exercise Science, Kinesiology, Physiology of Exercise, or ...

Fitness Specialist

Palm Desert, CA · Hybrid

$19.50 - $22/hr

Lifestyle and Wellness Director Position Overview: We are seeking a dedicated and multi ... Bachelor's degree in Kinesiology, Exercise Science, or a related field. * Certified Corrective ...

Fitness Specialist

Palm Desert, CA · On-site

$19.50 - $22/hr

Lifestyle and Wellness Director Position Overview: We are seeking a dedicated and multi ... Bachelor's degree in Kinesiology, Exercise Science, or a related field. * Certified Corrective ...

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Showing results 1-20

Director Exercise Science information

See California salary details

$11

$28

$68

How much do director exercise science jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for director exercise science in California is $28.11, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.12 and $29.66 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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 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.

What are the most commonly searched types of Exercise Science jobs in California?

The most popular types of Exercise Science jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Director Exercise Science jobs?

Cities in California with the most Director Exercise Science job openings:

Infographic showing various Director Exercise Science job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $58,475 per year, or $28.1 per hour.

$49.01 - $65.57/hr

Part-time

Posted 9 days ago


Job description

Welcome to Montage Health's application process!

Job Description:

The Exercise Physiologist (EP) reports to the coordinator of the Cardiopulmonary Wellness Program. The EP works as an integral part of the multidisciplinary Cardiopulmonary Wellness team, and provides direct patient care for patients with cardiac, pulmonary, and other chronic diseases. Responsible for orienting patients to program and exercise equipment; assessing patient's exercise progression; identifying ways to increase patient independence; developing/leading appropriate warm-up, cool-down, and resistive exercises; and teaching education classes. Assists with supervised/monitored exercise classes with multiple high-risk patients, including entering data into the telemetry monitoring system and accurately assessing patient response to exercise, including blood pressure, oxygen saturation, heart rate, RPE, dyspnea, blood sugar, orthopedic limitations, and symptoms. Implements appropriate progressive exercise prescriptions including cardiovascular, stretching, and resistance exercises. Understands and utilizes behavior modification techniques and coaching skills to empower patients to make conscious choices regarding their health. Actively participates in team meetings to review patient's progress, goals, and plans. Assists clinical staff in maintaining all aspects of individual treatment plans, including filing reports and preparing for chart review with medical director and discharge reports. Responsible for accurately tracking program outcomes and billing. Performs resting 12-lead EKG's. Participates in health screenings/events for the employers and the community.

Experience

Minimum of 9 months experience designing, implementing and monitoring exercise prescriptions for people with chronic conditions/disease.

Ability to recognize basic arrhythmias.

Proficient in the English language.

Type minimum of 40 wpm.

Intermediate proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel and PowerPoint.

Education

Bachelor's degree in Exercise Science, Exercise Physiology, or Kinesiology required.

Licensure/Certifications

American Heart Association Healthcare Provider BLS required. American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) Exercise Physiologist certification or comparable certification. Wellcoaches certification preferred.

Equal opportunity employer.

Assigned Work Hours:

Tuesdays and Thursdays 8:00am-4:30pm.

Position Type:

Per Diem

Pay Range (based on years of applicable experience):

$49.01

to

$65.57

The hours employees work determine when a shift differential is paid.

Hourly Evening Shift Differential: $3.01Hourly Night Shift Differential: $4.51