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Entry Level Exercise Physiologist Jobs in California

Entry Level Exercise Physiologist information

See California salary details

$12

$27

$46

How much do entry level exercise physiologist jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level exercise physiologist in California is $27.98, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.38 and $33.46 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What Does an Entry-Level Exercise Physiologist Do?

As an entry-level exercise physiologist, your duties are to help plan and assist clients with fitness programs designed to improve their lifestyle or help them recover from traumatic injuries or long-term conditions which inhibit their ability to exercise and strengthen their bodies. Your responsibilities are to work with each of your clients to assess their current physiological capabilities. You then develop a plan with them and guide them through the process, assisting them throughout the program. You also help them understand the nutritional aspects of their lifestyle and how it can contribute to improving mobility and exercise.

Is there a high demand for exercise physiologists?

The demand for exercise physiologists is expected to grow faster than average due to increasing awareness of preventive healthcare and chronic disease management. Employment opportunities are strong in hospitals, outpatient clinics, and wellness centers, often requiring certification and knowledge of exercise testing and rehabilitation techniques.

What jobs can I get with a degree in exercise physiology?

An exercise physiologist can work in clinical settings, rehabilitation centers, fitness facilities, or sports organizations, designing and implementing exercise programs to improve health and performance. Common roles include clinical exercise specialist, cardiac rehabilitation specialist, fitness trainer, or wellness coach, often requiring certifications like ACSM or NSCA. These jobs typically involve working with diverse populations and may require knowledge of medical conditions and exercise testing equipment.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Exercise Physiologist, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Exercise Physiologist, you typically need a bachelor's degree in exercise physiology or a related field, along with a solid understanding of human anatomy, physiology, and exercise prescription. Familiarity with fitness assessment tools, metabolic carts, and possibly certifications like ACSM EP-C are commonly expected. Strong interpersonal communication, motivational skills, and attention to detail help build rapport with clients and ensure effective, individualized programs. These competencies are vital for promoting safe, evidence-based interventions that support clients in achieving their health and fitness goals.

What is the starting salary for an exercise physiologist?

The starting salary for an entry-level exercise physiologist typically ranges from $40,000 to $50,000 annually, depending on location, employer, and certifications. Salaries can increase with experience, additional certifications, and advanced education in exercise science or related fields.

What does an entry level exercise physiologist do?

An entry level exercise physiologist works with individuals to improve their physical fitness, health, and overall well-being through exercise and lifestyle programs. They assess clients' fitness levels, develop personalized exercise plans, and monitor progress to help prevent or manage chronic diseases. Often employed in hospitals, rehabilitation centers, fitness facilities, or research settings, they collaborate with other healthcare professionals to ensure safe and effective interventions tailored to each client's needs.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level exercise physiologists, and how can they overcome them?

Entry level exercise physiologists often face challenges such as building client trust, adapting exercise plans for diverse populations, and effectively communicating complex information to clients with varying levels of health literacy. To overcome these challenges, it's important to seek mentorship from experienced colleagues, participate in continuous professional development, and actively seek feedback. Being proactive in learning about new protocols and refining interpersonal skills will help you grow more confident in assessing and guiding clients toward their fitness or rehabilitation goals.

How to get clinical experience for exercise physiologist?

Entry level exercise physiologists can gain clinical experience through internships, volunteering in healthcare or rehabilitation settings, and completing supervised practical hours as part of their certification or degree programs. Developing skills in patient assessment, exercise programming, and using tools like ECGs or ergometers enhances their qualifications for clinical roles.
What are the most commonly searched types of Exercise Physiologist jobs in California? The most popular types of Exercise Physiologist jobs in California are:
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Infographic showing various Entry Level Exercise Physiologist job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $58,202 per year, or $28 per hour.
CT Technologist I, Per Diem, Variable Shift

CT Technologist I, Per Diem, Variable Shift

Cedars Sinai

Marina Del Rey, CA

Other

Posted 11 days ago


Cedars-Sinai rating

8.6

Company rating: 8.6 out of 10

Based on 130 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

41st of 1,051 rated hospitals


Job description

Make a difference every single day! 

Cedars-Sinai Marina del Rey Hospital and its staff aim to exceed the expectations of our patients, their families and the community with a service-oriented attitude. We seek excellence, courtesy, teamwork, respect, communication and enthusiasm in our future colleagues. If you are looking for exciting career opportunities with growth potential, come and join the team at Cedars-Sinai Marina del Rey Hospital!

Job Summary:

The CT Technologist I includes technologists who are at an entry level or have minimum experience performing CT scans that are generally non-complex in nature and under supervision may assist with some complex exams as required. Perform exams relative to patient population. The CT Technologist must demonstrate an understanding of human cross-sectional anatomy, physiology, pathology, pharmacology and medical terminology. Exercise cultural competency in providing patient education. Responsible for maintaining a safe environment and identifying and reporting any safety concerns.

Primary Duties and Responsibilities:

  • Performs CT exams utilizing approved procedures and protocols per standards of practice for speed, organization, precision and accuracy based upon the department's accrediting agency and/or department guidelines for exam protocols, adhering to department productivity standards. Follows and understands CT safety policies, guidelines and protocols.
  • Per the CT technologist's scope of practice and in accordance with institutional and departmental policies and procedures, receives and transcribes verbal orders from licensed independent practitioners.
  • Preview all CT images and monitors for accuracy and prepares/sends images to designated viewing systems. Perform section specific imaging QC using established technical factors and image identification.
  • Ensures room supply inventory meets activity requirements.
  • Adheres to all sterilization protocols.
  • Adheres to the medication management/disposal guidelines, to include receiving, stocking, and holding the medication container provided by the Licensed Independent Practitioner (LIP) to enable the LIP to withdraw medication. Discards the container once it is empty.
  • Prepares and administers CT medications and follows hospital guidelines in handling of medications to comply with all medication safety requirements.
  • Inputs accurate and timely documentation in all applicable electronic medical records systems. Responsible for weekend and begin and/or end of shift duties as applicable to shift assignment.
  • Operates, calibrates and maintains imaging equipment and accessory instruments used in exams. Recognizes and reports defective equipment immediately to supervisor or TIC.
  • Participates in performance improvement activities and other department/organizational committees, such as The Joint Commission, turn around time (TAT) projects, and customer service.
  • Provides patient and family education, specific to age and demographic population as appropriate.
  • Participates in continuing education to stay abreast of the Imaging technology and applications.

VARIABLE SHIFT INCLUDING WEEKENDS
 

Educational Requirements:

  • Bachelor's Degree Graduate of JRCERT accredited radiological program (preferred)
  • Minimum Associate Degree/College Diploma Graduate of JRCERT accredited radiological program 

License/Certifications:

  • Basic Life Support (BLS) 
  • American Registry of Radiologic Technologist, R.T.(R)
  • California Radiologic Technologist
  • American Registry of Radiologic Technologist, R.T.(CT)

Experience:

  • 2 years of experience performing CT scans (preferred)

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