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Entry Level Exercise Science Jobs in McAllen, TX

Program Specialist I

Mcallen, TX · On-site +1

$3.7K/mo

Job Title Program Specialist I Agency Texas A&M University Health Science Center Department ... What we want The Program Specialist I, under general supervision, performs entry-level specialist ...

New

Program Specialist I

Mcallen, TX · On-site +1

$3.7K/mo

Job Title Program Specialist I Agency Texas A&M University Health Science Center Department ... What we want The Program Specialist I, under general supervision, performs entry-level specialist ...

New

Entry Level Exercise Science information

See McAllen, TX salary details

$23.8K

$45.4K

$65.1K

How much do entry level exercise science jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level exercise science in McAllen, TX is $45,441.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $38,500.00 and $49,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an entry level exercise science job?

Entry level exercise science jobs are positions suitable for recent graduates or individuals new to the field of exercise science. Common roles include fitness trainers, personal trainers, physical therapy aides, wellness coordinators, and group exercise instructors. These positions typically involve helping clients improve their physical fitness, demonstrating exercises, monitoring progress, and sometimes assisting healthcare professionals. Entry level roles may be found in gyms, rehabilitation centers, community centers, or corporate wellness programs. They serve as a starting point for gaining experience and advancing into more specialized or supervisory positions.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed for entry level exercise science?

To thrive as an Entry Level Exercise Science professional, you need a solid understanding of human anatomy, exercise physiology, and foundational fitness assessment techniques, usually supported by a bachelor's degree in exercise science or a related field. Familiarity with fitness testing equipment, exercise planning software, and certifications such as CPR/AED are often required. Strong interpersonal skills, motivation, and the ability to communicate effectively help build rapport with clients and support behavior change. These skills are crucial for ensuring client safety, designing effective exercise programs, and fostering positive health outcomes.

What types of teams or professionals do entry level exercise science roles typically collaborate with?

Entry level exercise science professionals often work closely with personal trainers, physical therapists, athletic coaches, and healthcare providers. Collaboration is key, as you may assist in designing exercise programs, monitoring client progress, or supporting rehabilitation plans. Teamwork helps ensure clients receive holistic and safe guidance, and it also provides a great opportunity for learning from experienced colleagues. Regular communication and coordinated efforts are essential for delivering effective fitness or wellness outcomes.

What is the difference between Entry Level Exercise Science vs Personal Trainer?

AspectEntry Level Exercise SciencePersonal Trainer
CredentialsBachelor's in Exercise Science or related field; certifications like ACSM or NSCACertifications such as NASM, ACE, or ACSM; CPR/AED required
Work EnvironmentClinics, research labs, fitness centers, hospitalsGyms, fitness centers, private clients
Employer & IndustryHealthcare, sports organizations, fitness facilitiesFitness industry, personal training studios, gyms
Job FocusExercise testing, program development, health promotionPersonalized fitness training, client motivation, workout planning

While both roles involve promoting physical activity, Entry Level Exercise Science focuses on health assessment, research, and program development, often in clinical or research settings. Personal Trainers primarily work directly with clients to improve fitness through personalized workouts. The certifications and work environments overlap but differ in scope and focus.

How to get into entry level exercise science?

To enter an entry-level exercise science position, candidates typically need a bachelor's degree in exercise science, kinesiology, or a related field. Gaining practical experience through internships, developing knowledge of human anatomy and physiology, and obtaining certifications like CPR or personal trainer credentials can improve job prospects.

Is entry level exercise science a useful degree?

An entry-level exercise science degree provides foundational knowledge in human movement, anatomy, and physiology, which can lead to careers in fitness training, rehabilitation, or health promotion. It often serves as a stepping stone for certifications like personal trainer or strength and conditioning coach, increasing job opportunities in health and fitness industries.

What can I do with a bachelor of exercise science?

With a bachelor of exercise science, you can pursue roles such as fitness trainer, personal trainer, strength and conditioning coach, or rehabilitation assistant. These positions often require knowledge of human anatomy, exercise programming, and sometimes certification in CPR or personal training. Career options include working in gyms, sports teams, clinics, or wellness centers.

What jobs can I get with just an entry level exercise science degree?

Entry level exercise science graduates can pursue roles such as fitness trainers, personal trainers, or rehabilitation assistants, often working in gyms, clinics, or community centers. These positions typically require knowledge of anatomy, physiology, and basic training techniques, and may benefit from certifications like CPR or personal training credentials.

What jobs can I get with only an entry level exercise science degree?

Entry level exercise science graduates can pursue roles such as fitness trainers, personal trainers, or health and wellness coaches, often working in gyms, fitness centers, or community programs. These positions typically require knowledge of anatomy, physiology, and basic training techniques, and may benefit from certification such as CPR or personal training credentials.

What are the most commonly searched types of Exercise Science jobs in McAllen, TX?

The most popular types of Exercise Science jobs in McAllen, TX are:

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Exercise Science jobs in McAllen, TX?

For Entry Level Exercise Science jobs in McAllen, TX, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities near McAllen, TX are hiring for Entry Level Exercise Science jobs?

Cities near McAllen, TX with the most Entry Level Exercise Science job openings:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Exercise Science job openings in McAllen, TX as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 21% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 74% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 23% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,441 per year, or $21.8 per hour.

Program Specialist I

Texas A&M University

Mcallen, TX • On-site, Remote

$3.7K/mo

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 3 days ago

New


Texas A&M University rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 146 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

237th of 630 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Job Title

Program Specialist I

Agency

Texas A&M University Health Science Center

Department

Environmental And Occupational Health

Proposed Minimum Salary

$3,750.00 monthly

Job Location

McAllen, Texas

Job Type

Staff

Job Description

Our Commitment

Texas A&M University is committed to enriching the learning and working environment by promoting a culture that respects all perspectives, talents & lived experiences. Embracing varying opinions and perspectives strengthens our core values which are: Respect, Excellence, Leadership, Loyalty, Integrity, and Selfless Service.

Who we are

As one of the fastest-growing academic health centers in the nation,Texas A&M Healthencompasses five colleges andnumerouscenters and institutes working together to improve health through transformative education, innovativeresearchand team-based health care delivery.

What we want

The Program Specialist I, under general supervision, performs entry-level specialist duties for the Together for a Better Tomorrow program.

What you need to know

Location: McAllen, Texas

Travel: Ability to travel independently to other and/or remote locations by driving and/or flying on commercial airlines.

Schedule: Work beyond normal office hours including adaptable work hours on weekends/evenings.
Will require occasional travel outside of the Lower Rio Grande Valley as well as substantial travel within the Lower Rio Grande Valley (multiple Counties).

Responsibilities:

Program Planning and Coordinating

  • Assists in planning, developing, implementing, coordinating, and monitoring program or services.

  • Assists in the development of policies, procedures, guidelines, and preparation/maintenance of budgets, special reports, and other documents.

  • Creates, establishes, and maintains program files, databases, correspondence, and program materials.

  • Assists in communication with employees.

Program Sessions

  • Assists in planning and developing specialized meetings and workshops to facilitate program goals.

Program Administrative Support

  • Assists in coordinating specialized program communications and marketing materials.

  • Liaises with participants in the programs to ensure all administrative processes are completed correctly.

Program Communication and Support

  • Attends meetings and conferences to discuss the progress of assigned programs.

  • Assists other program staff in evaluating the success and impact of specialized programs.

  • Serves as the first point of contact for program information and coordinates responses to requests for program information via email and social media

  • Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications:

Required Education

  • Bachelor's degree in applicable field or equivalent combination of education and experience.

Required Licenses and Certifications

  • Department of State Health Services (DSHS) certification, certified CHW and/or CHWI, Promotora Certification of Training, or ability to successfully complete Promotora Certification.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Experience with developing, planning, implementing, and evaluating curriculum development efforts.

  • Experience with assisting or leading training efforts.

  • Public relations and marketing experience.

  • Two years of related experience working with Spanish-speaking community members, stakeholders, and completing research and outreach activities.

  • Experience with data collection and data management efforts.

  • Experience with community-based participatory research efforts.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

  • Strong verbal and written communication skills in English & Spanish.

  • Knowledge of word processing, spreadsheets, and database applications.

  • Ability to multitask and work cooperatively with others.

  • Strong interpersonal, organizational, and customer service skills.

  • Maintains attention to detail and utilizes sound judgment

  • Knowledge of Canva, Photoshop, & other design platforms.

  • Ability to work with sensitive information and maintain confidentiality.

  • Strong computer literacy including ability to troubleshoot and provide technological support.

Why Texas A&M University?

We are a prestigious university with strong traditions, Core Values, and a community of caring and collaboration.

  • Medical,prescription drug,dental,vision,life and AD&D,flexible spending accounts,and long-term disability insurancewith Texas A&M contributing to employee health and basic life premiums

  • 12-15 daysof annual paid holidays

  • Up toeight hours of paid sick leaveand at leasteight hours of paid vacationeach month

  • Automatic enrollment in theTeacher Retirement System of Texas

  • Health and Wellness:Free exercise programs and release time

  • Professional Development: All employees have access to freeLinkedIn Learningtraining, webinars, and limited financial support to attend conferences, workshops, and more

  • Educational release time and tuition assistancefor completing a degree while a Texas A&M employee

  • Living Well,a program at Texas A&M that has been built by employees, for employees

Instructions to Applicants: Applications received by Texas A&M University must either have all job application data entered, or a resume attached. Failure to provide all job application data or a complete resume could result in an invalid submission and a rejected application. We encourage all applicants to upload a resume or use a LinkedIn profile to pre-populate the online application.

All positions are security-sensitive. Applicants are subject to a criminal history investigation, and employment is contingent upon the institution's verification of credentials and/or other information required by the institution's procedures, including the completion of the criminal history check.

Equal Opportunity/Veterans/Disability Employer.


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