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Director Exercise Science Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Riverside Health System Non-Providers

$18.20 - $23.68/hr

Overview Works under the supervision of Director of Clinical Wellness to assist in the development ... Bachelors Degree, Exercise Science/Health & Wellness or Related (Preferred) Experience * 1 year ...

Riverside

$18.20 - $23.68/hr

Overview Works under the supervision of Director of Clinical Wellness to assist in the development ... Bachelors Degree, Exercise Science/Health & Wellness or Related (Preferred) Experience * 1 year ...

Riverside Health System

Exercise Specialist

Gloucester, VA · On-site

$18.20 - $23.68/hr

Overview Works under the supervision of Director of Clinical Wellness to assist in the development ... Bachelors Degree, Exercise Science/Health & Wellness or Related (Preferred) Experience * 1 year ...

YMCA

Fitness Director

Rocky Mount, VA · On-site

$40K - $43K/yr

Join the Y as a Fitness Director and help inspire healthy living in our community. Apply today ... Master's degree in exercise science, or a related field from an accredited college or university a ...

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How much do director exercise science jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for director exercise science in Virginia is $27.92, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.00 and $29.46 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 Virginia? The most popular types of Exercise Science jobs in Virginia are:
What are popular job titles related to Director Exercise Science jobs in Virginia? For Director Exercise Science jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Director Exercise Science jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Director Exercise Science jobs in Virginia are:
Director Exercise Science jobs near you
Infographic showing various Director Exercise Science job openings in Virginia 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 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $58,075 per year, or $27.9 per hour.
Clinical Exercise Specialist

Clinical Exercise Specialist

Sentara Healthcare

Hampton, VA • On-site

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 18 days ago

Sentara Health rating

6.9

Company rating: 6.9 out of 10

Based on 391 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

441st of 880 rated healthcare providers

Job description

City/State
Hampton, VA
Work Shift
First (Days)
Overview:
Sentara is hiring a Clinical Exercise Specialist I in Hampton, Virginia
This is a Flexi, Day shift opportunity!!!
Under the direction and guidance of a licensed clinician, the Clinical Exercise Specialist provides quality exercise and health education for patients assuring a safe, pleasant, and professional atmosphere. Administers therapy treatments under the direct supervision of therapists/providers. Provides age appropriate education for Client/participants and caregivers.
Qualifications:
Bachelor's degree in Exercise Science, Health Science, Kinesiology, Athletic Training, Recreational Therapy, Physical Education or Masters in Athletic
Training with a concentration in exercise science required.
Sentara is an integrated, not-for-profit healthcare delivery system with more than 29,000 employees (including 1,375 physicians and advanced practice providers), 12 hospitals in Virginia and Northeastern North Carolina, and the Sentara Health Plans division which serves over 900,000 members.
We are recognized nationally for clinical quality and safety and are strategically focused on innovation and creating an extraordinary healthcare experience for our patients and members.
Join a team with a mission to improve health every day and a vision to be the healthcare choice of the communities we serve!
Keywords: Clinical Exercise Specialist, Physical Rehab Therapy, Outpatient, CES, Monster, Talroo-Allied Health
Benefits: Caring For Your Family and Your Career
• Medical, Dental, Vision plans
• Adoption, Fertility and Surrogacy Reimbursement up to 10,000
• Paid Time Off and Sick Leave
• Paid Parental & Family Caregiver Leave
• Emergency Backup Care
• Long-Term, Short-Term Disability, and Critical Illness plans
• Life Insurance
• 401k/403B with Employer Match
• Tuition Assistance - 5,250/year and discounted educational opportunities through Guild Education
• Student Debt Pay Down - 10,000
• Reimbursement for certifications and free access to complete CEUs and professional development
• Pet Insurance
• Legal Resources Plan
• Colleagues have the opportunity to earn an annual discretionary bonus if established system and employee eligibility criteria is met.
Sentara Health is an equal opportunity employer and prides itself on the diversity and inclusiveness of its close to an almost 30,000-member workforce. Diversity, inclusion, and belonging is a guiding principle of the organization to ensure its workforce reflects the communities it serves.
In support of our mission "to improve health every day," this is a tobacco-free environment.
For positions that are available as remote work, Sentara Health employs associates in the following states:
Alabama, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Idaho, Indiana, Kansas, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Minnesota, Nebraska, Nevada, New Hampshire, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia, Wisconsin, and Wyoming.

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