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Director Exercise Science Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Group Exercise Instructor

Melrose Park, IL · On-site

$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 ...

Employees providing direct patient care must demonstrate competencies specific to the population served. EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE * Bachelor's degree in Exercise Science or a related field ...

EXERCISE PHYSIOLOGIST

Chicago, IL · On-site

$30 - $36/hr

Meets with the medical director to review and discuss patient progress and patient exercise ... Master's Degree in exercise physiology (Master of Science in Movement Sciences) preferred.

Meets with the medical director to review and discuss patient progress and patient exercise ... Master's Degree in exercise physiology (Master of Science in Movement Sciences) preferred.

$21.62 - $33.51/hr

Masters of Science; BLS within 90 days Pay: Based on experience, starting at $21.62 ... direct supervision of MD, including documentation of history and medications, review for test ...

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Director Exercise Science information

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 Illinois? The most popular types of Exercise Science jobs in Illinois are:
What cities in Illinois are hiring for Director Exercise Science jobs? Cities in Illinois with the most Director Exercise Science job openings:

Visiting Faculty, Exercise Science

Lindenwood

Campus, IL

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted yesterday


Job description

Welcome to Career Opportunities at Lindenwood University.PLEASE READ: For all applications, please include your resume and cover letter. You may skip the "Quick Apply" page by simply clicking "Next" at the bottom of the page. When you arrive at the "Experience" page, you may upload all desired documents using the upload box labeled "Resume/CV." This is the appropriate box to upload all documents.

Benefits of Being a Lindenwood Employee:

  • Upon hire, employer-paid tuition benefits for bachelor's (employee, spouse, and dependent) and master's degree programs (employee and spouse only).
  • Tuition discounts for doctoral programs (employee only).
  • Comprehensive benefits plan: medical, dental, vision, life insurance, disability insurance, and retirement options.
  • Paid holidays: MLK Jr. day, Good Friday, Memorial Day, Juneteenth, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving break (Wednesday - Friday), and winter break (Dec. 23 - Jan. 1).
  • Free lunch Fridays: LU employees are eligible for a free meal on Fridays at the Evans Commons Dining Hall or Spellman Dining Hall; Chick-fil-A and Qdoba included.
  • Professional development opportunities through the Lindenwood Learning Academy.

Job Title: Visiting Faculty, Exercise Science

Department: Kinesiology

FLSA Status: Exempt

Reports To: Dean or Academic Administrator

Positions Supervised: Student Employee(s) as Applicable

Application must be completed in one sitting. At the time of completing the application, you will need the following documents to upload.

Supplemental Materials

  • Cover Letter specifying your area of expertise and interest
  • Curriculum Vitae
  • Teaching Philosophy
  • Three (3) recent letters of recommendation sent directly to LUHR@lindenwood.edu
  • Unofficial transcript(s) of all degrees completed

*** The system limits 5 documents to upload. You will need to save multiple documents into one PDF or have additional documents sent to luhr@lindenwood.edu***

Job Summary

Faculty and instructors are responsible for curriculum, teaching, service, scholarship, and related administrative activities that support the mission, vision, and values of the university.

The College of Science, Technology, and Health at Lindenwood University invites applications for a Visiting Faculty of Exercise Science.


Qualified applicants will possess a PhD in exercise science or a related field. Applicants with experience in sports science, sports data analytics, or biomechanics are preferred.The successful candidate will be expected to teach 4 courses (12 credit hours) each semester , and specific course assignments will be determined by area of expertise and prior teaching experience. Primary teaching responsibilities will include undergraduate courses, with the potential to teach one graduate course each semester. All Lindenwood faculty members are expected to advise and mentor students, continue to develop their expertise through research and scholarship, and participate in faculty governance and campus life.

The Visiting Faculty of Exercise Science is a full-time faculty position that will begin August 13, 2026. Review of applications will begin immediately and will continue until the position is filled.

Essential Job Functions and Performance Indicators

The intent of this job description is to provide a representation of the types of duties and level of responsibility that will be required of positions given this title. This job description shall not be construed as a declaration of the total of the specific duties and responsibilities of any particular position. Employees may be directed to perform job-related tasks other than those specifically presented in this description. Employees should refer to the Employee Guidebook and the respective performance evaluation for additional job-related expectations.

Standard 1 - Teaching and Learning

Lindenwood faculty are committed to designing courses and creating classroom cultures characterized by rigor, inclusiveness, support, and engagement for research-based teaching that will serve faculty from all disciplines and students from all groups. Guidelines and expectations developed by the colleges, departments, or programs to support needs and/or requirements specific to each will be determined by the academic administrators and communicated to the faculty.

Standard 2 - Academic Service and Contributions

Lindenwood faculty actively support and provide service to the mission, vision, values, and initiatives of the university and colleges, and exemplify the Q2 culture of service excellence. Guidelines and expectations developed by the colleges, departments, or programs to support needs and/or requirements specific to each will be determined by the academic administrators and communicated to the faculty.

Standard 3 - Continuous Learning and Scholarship

Lindenwood faculty are committed to remaining current in their discipline and instructional practice through continuous learning and contributions to their field by participating in scholarly work.

Required Qualifications

An equivalent combination of education, training, and experience will be considered. Additional requirements may be designated by position.

View Required Qualifications by Rank

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

May be representative, but not all inclusive, of the knowledge, skills and abilities necessary to perform this job competently.

Communication Skills: Ability to verbalize understanding of complex problems or situations, ask relevant questions for clarifications and explain concepts clearly to others; well-developed written communication skills; ability to communicate diplomatically, clearly, and effectively with students and co-workers verbally, in-person, and by telephone using the English language; ability to present materials effectively to individual students or groups; ability to manage interpersonal conflict situations requiring tact, diplomacy, and discretion; and ability to support a culture of diversity, equity, and inclusion through effective interactions with students, employees, alumni, and other stakeholders.

Decision-Making & Analytical Skills: Ability to define problems, collect data, establish facts and draw valid conclusions; ability to organize and express ideas, directions, and data in a logical sequence to describe a process or explain procedures, such as how to perform a task; and ability to deal with abstract and concrete variables.

Technological & Related Skills: Ability to use current technology to enhance effectiveness including but not limited to computers, computer-assisted instruction programs, and audio-visual equipment; willing to learn and apply any other new technology necessary to enhance learning; working knowledge of Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint, Canvas (LMS), CAMS (SIS), and Workday (EIS); and ability to use phones, fax machines, printers, scanners and copiers.

Work Environment

Environmental or atmospheric conditions commonly associated with the performance of this job's functions.

  • Unless a faculty position is designated as fully remote, all full-time faculty positions are designated as non-standard flex. On-campus presence is required and is deemed necessary to perform the position expectations. Flexibility for remote work for non-routine, situational, and unusual circumstances, is provided at the administrator's discretion.
  • General office and/or classroom setting for on-campus faculty and instructors
  • Variable work environments as determined by online instructors; must have 24/7 access to a computer that meets minimum technical specifications and has high-speed Internet access, distraction free from noise and movement
  • See Attendance section below for work environment attendance expectations

Physical Abilities

The physical demands described below are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform this job's essential functions. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.

  • Stamina to teach classes as required
  • Ability to stand or sit for extended time periods
  • Ability to meet on-campus requirement for classes and duties that are designated as such

Attendance

View Attendance by Rank

Equal Opportunity Employer

Lindenwood University is an Equal Opportunity employer. The University complies with appropriate federal, state, and local laws and provides equal employment opportunities and access to educational programs without regard to race, color, religion, gender, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran status, disability, or any other protected status to all qualified applicants and employees. Lindenwood University is committed to a policy of non-discrimination and dedicated to providing a positive discrimination-free educational work environment.