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Director Exercise Science Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

AC Wellness

Exercise Specialist

Cupertino, CA

$38 - $46/hr

The Exercise Specialist works in direct partnership with the primary care team to help patients ... Bachelor's Degree in Exercise Science, Exercise Physiology, or Kinesiology. Master's Degree ...

AC Wellness

Exercise Specialist

Cupertino, CA · On-site

$38 - $46/hr

The Exercise Specialist works in direct partnership with the primary care team to help patients ... Bachelor's Degree in Exercise Science, Exercise Physiology, or Kinesiology. Master's Degree ...

AC Wellness

Exercise Specialist

Cupertino, CA

$38 - $46/hr

The Exercise Specialist works in direct partnership with the primary care team to help patients ... Bachelor's Degree in Exercise Science, Exercise Physiology, or Kinesiology. Master's Degree ...

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All JobsExercise Science JobsDirector Exercise Science JobsDirector Exercise Science Jobs in California

Director Exercise Science information

See California salary details

$11

$28

$68

How much do director exercise science jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 26, 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 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.
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 are popular job titles related to Director Exercise Science jobs in California? For Director Exercise Science jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Director Exercise Science jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Director 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:
Director Exercise Science jobs near you
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.
Exercise Physiologist, Cardiac Rehab - 139551

Exercise Physiologist, Cardiac Rehab - 139551

UC San Diego

San Diego, CA • On-site

$41.45 - $51.56/hr

Other

Posted 19 days ago

Job description

UCSD Layoff from Career Appointment: Apply by 5/07/26 for consideration with preference for rehire. All layoff applicants should contact their Employment Advisor.

Reassignment Applicants: Eligible Reassignment clients should contact their Disability Counselor for assistance.

DESCRIPTION

The Cardiovascular Rehabilitation and Wellness Center at UC San Diego Health offers Intensive and Standard Cardiac Rehabilitation and other wellness programs that are designed to help patients with and without heart disease lead healthier lives.

As part of our multidisciplinary team, the Clinical Exercise Physiologist is responsible for direct patient care activities including supervising cardiac rehabilitation patients, conducting initial orientation visits, developing and implementing exercise prescriptions, case management, performing fitness evaluations and educating patients on risk factor reduction, behavior intervention and lifestyle change.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

  • Bachelor degree in Exercise Science, Exercise Physiology, or Kinesiology.

  • Must obtain ACSM Certified Clinical Exercise Physiologist certification within six months of hire.

  • BART or BLS at time of hire with commitment to get BART within six (6) months of hire date.

  • Minimum of two years experience as an Exercise Physiologist in Outpatient Cardiac Rehabilitation.

  • Understanding and ability to apply exercise principles for variety of adult patient populations.

  • Ability to perform exercise testing parameters such as body fat, heart rate, and blood pressure.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

  • Master's degree in Exercise Science, Exercise Physiology or related field.

  • Certified Cardiac Rehabilitation Professional (CCRP).

SPECIAL CONDITIONS

  • Must be able to take call, work other shifts, overtime, weekends, and holidays at the need of the department.

  • Employment is subject to a criminal background check and pre-employment physical.

Pay Transparency Act

Annual Full Pay Range: $86,548 - $107,657 (will be prorated if the appointment percentage is less than 100%)

Hourly Equivalent: $41.45 - $51.56

Factors in determining the appropriate compensation for a role include experience, skills, knowledge, abilities, education, licensure and certifications, and other business and organizational needs. The Hiring Pay Scale referenced in the job posting is the budgeted salary or hourly range that the University reasonably expects to pay for this position. The Annual Full Pay Range may be broader than what the University anticipates to pay for this position, based on internal equity, budget, and collective bargaining agreements (when applicable).

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