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Exercise Physiologist Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Exercise Physiologist

San Diego, CA · On-site

$65K - $68K/yr

Exercise Physiologist Location US-CA-San Diego Job ID 350904 Pos. Category Therapy - Chiropractor Pos. Type Full Time Recruiter : Full Name: First Last Joseph Winter Overview Concentra is now hiring ...

Exercise Physiologist

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site

$32.71 - $40.89/hr

As a Full-Time Exercise Physiologist , you'll provide care to client employees and their dependents in our Health Center located in Sunnyvale, CA . Anticipated work schedule will be 9:30am- 6:30pm ...

Exercise Physiologist (Per Diem)

Marina, CA · On-site

$49.01 - $65.57/hr

The Exercise Physiologist (EP) reports to the coordinator of the Cardiopulmonary Wellness Program. The EP works as an integral part of the multidisciplinary Cardiopulmonary Wellness team, and ...

Exercise Physiologist

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site

$32.71 - $40.89/hr

As a Full-Time Exercise Physiologist , you'll provide care to client employees and their dependents in our Health Center located in Sunnyvale, CA . Anticipated work schedule will be 9:30am- 6:30pm ...

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Exercise Physiologist information

See California salary details

$12

$27

$46

How much do exercise physiologist jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for 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 do exercise physiologists do?

Exercise Physiologists are health professionals who assist their patients in improving their lifestyles and maintaining good health. They may work with patients who have heart disease, diabetes, or pulmonary disease to regain their strength and health. Sometimes they also work with amateur and professional athletes, providing training and tips to optimize their performance and prevent injury. Exercise Physiologists evaluate their patient’s health using stress tests and other examinations to assess cardiovascular function and metabolism. After reviewing the results, they design fitness plans to achieve their patient’s goals.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an exercise physiologist, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Exercise Physiologist, you need a solid background in exercise science, human physiology, and anatomy, usually supported by a relevant degree and professional certification such as ACSM-EP or CEP. Familiarity with exercise testing equipment, biometric tracking tools, and health assessment software is crucial for daily tasks. Strong interpersonal skills, motivational abilities, and clear communication help in building client trust and promoting healthy behavior change. These skills ensure accurate assessments, effective program development, and positive client outcomes in clinical and fitness settings.

What are some common challenges exercise physiologists face when working with diverse patient populations?

Exercise Physiologists often encounter challenges such as adapting exercise plans to accommodate patients with varying medical conditions, ages, and fitness levels. Communication is key, as explaining complex exercise concepts in a clear and motivating way can be difficult, especially when clients have different backgrounds or language barriers. Additionally, collaborating with multidisciplinary healthcare teams and staying updated on the latest research and protocols ensures individualized, evidence-based care. These challenges require flexibility, empathy, and strong interpersonal skills.

What is the difference between Exercise Physiologist vs Physical Therapist?

AspectExercise PhysiologistPhysical Therapist
CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Exercise Science, certification (e.g., ACSM)Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT), state licensure
Work EnvironmentFitness centers, rehab clinics, hospitalsHospitals, outpatient clinics, rehab centers
Employer & IndustryHealthcare, sports, wellness industriesHealthcare, rehabilitation services

Exercise Physiologists focus on improving physical fitness and managing chronic diseases through exercise programs, often working in wellness and rehab settings. Physical Therapists diagnose and treat injuries, providing hands-on therapy and rehabilitation. While both roles promote health and recovery, their credentials, scope, and work environments differ significantly.

How much does an exercise physiologist make annually?

An exercise physiologist's average annual salary in the United States is around $50,000 to $70,000, depending on experience, certification, and work setting. Salaries can vary based on location, specialization, and whether they work in clinical, fitness, or research environments.

Is being an exercise physiologist a good career?

Exercise physiologists assess and develop exercise programs to improve health and manage chronic conditions. The profession offers opportunities in healthcare, rehabilitation, and fitness settings, often requiring certification and strong interpersonal skills. It can be a rewarding career for those interested in health promotion and patient care.

What can you do as an exercise physiologist?

An exercise physiologist designs and implements exercise programs to improve health, fitness, and recovery for patients with chronic diseases or injuries. They assess physical fitness, monitor progress, and may work in clinical, rehabilitation, or fitness settings, often requiring certification and knowledge of human physiology and exercise science.

What jobs can you do with exercise physiology?

Exercise physiologists can work in clinical settings, rehabilitation centers, sports teams, fitness facilities, and research institutions. They design and implement exercise programs to improve health, assist in injury recovery, and enhance athletic performance, often requiring certification and knowledge of human anatomy and physiology.

What are the most commonly searched types of Exercise Physiologist jobs in California?

The most popular types of Exercise Physiologist jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Exercise Physiologist jobs in California?

For Exercise Physiologist jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in California are hiring for Exercise Physiologist jobs?

Cities in California with the most Exercise Physiologist job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Exercise Physiologist jobs in CA?

For Exercise Physiologist jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Exercise Physiologist job openings in California as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 71% Full Time, and 29% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $58,202 per year, or $28 per hour.

Exercise Physiologist

Palo Alto, CA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 18 days ago


Job description

Company Description

At Lucile Packard Children's Hospital Stanford, we know world-renowned care begins with world-class caring. That's why we combine advanced technologies and breakthrough discoveries with family-centered care. It's why we provide our caregivers with continuing education and state-of-the-art facilities, like the newly remodeled Lucile Packard Children's Hospital Stanford. And it's why we need caring, committed people on our team - like you. Join us on our mission to heal humanity, one child and family at a time.
Job ID: P145426-3055

Job Description

JOB SUMMARY

This paragraph summarizes the general nature, level and purpose of the job.

According to the American Society of Exercise Physiologists (ASEP), exercise physiology includes the study, assessment and improvement of human biomechanical movement. Exercise physiology is the study of the human body's metabolic response to short- and long-term physical activity for the purposes of increased athletic performance, wellness, and rehabilitation. An exercise physiologist designs and carefully monitors exercise programs that increase patients' endurance and speed their recovery after a heart attack or heart procedure. Exercise physiologists need a degree and professional certification. The Exercise Physiologist is a staff member of the ECHO Department at Lucile Packard Children's Hospital.

Under the direct supervision of the Medical Director of the Exercise Physiology lab and the Director of the OP Heart center, the Exercise Physiologist performs appropriate exercise testing for all ages in the Pediatric Heart Center Cardio Pulmonary Lab for children and young adults. This includes both metabolic and non-metabolic testing as well as exercise echoes and cardiac rehabilitation.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

The essential functions listed are typical examples of work performed by positions in this job classification. They are not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, tasks, and responsibilities. Employees may also perform other duties as assigned.

Employees must abide by all Joint Commission Requirements including but not limited to sensitivity to cultural diversity, patient care, patient rights and ethical treatment, safety and security of physical environments, emergency management, teamwork, respect for others, participation in ongoing education and training, communication and adherence to safety and quality programs, sustaining compliance with National Patient Safety Goals, and licensure and health screenings.

Must perform all duties and responsibilities in accordance with the hospital's policies and procedures, including its Service Standards and its Code of Conduct.

Employee must perform all duties and responsibilities in accordance with the PCARES Standards of the Hospital. PCARES is the foundation of Lucile Packard Children's Hospital patient experience and represents the framework for patient and family centered care.

*Supervises and performs exercise testing (including metabolic, non-metabolic, and exercise echoes) on all patients.
*Supervises and trains medical assistants on 6 minute walk testing and report completion.
*Appropriate and timely documentation of exercise testing reports. Including timely presentation to the reading Cardiologist for final read.
*Supervise and participate in Cardiac Rehabilitation program including patient teaching and direction.
*Assists in setting up procedures, policies and protocols or guidelines for the exercise lab.
*Participates in checking and documenting calibration of equipment function. Participates in research projects and provides testing to research patients as needed.
*Performs all other related duties as assigned.

Qualifications

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Any combination of education and experience that would likely provide the required knowledge, skills and abilities as well as possession of any required licenses or certifications is qualifying.

Education: Bachelor Degree in exercise physiology, Kinesiology or equivalent. Masters Degree in Exercise Physiology, Kinesiology or equivalent preferred.

Experience: One year of experience in exercise physiology. One year of experience in pediatric exercise physiology, cardiac rehabilitation preferred.

License/Certification: American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) Certification preferred.

KNOWLEDGE

These are the observable and measurable attributes and skills required to perform successfully the essential functions of the job and are generally demonstrated through qualifying experience, education or licensure/certification.

*Broad knowledge of exercise protocols and procedures with a willingness to learn echocardiography.
*Preferred: Proven knowledge base and exercise leadership qualities and ability to relate effectively with medical. Paramedical, and parent/patient individuals.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

The Physical Requirements and Working Conditions in which the job is typically performed are available from the Occupational Health Department. Reasonable accommodations will be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the job.

Additional Information

Pay Range
Compensation is based on the level and requirements of the role.
Salary within our ranges may also be determined by your education, experience, knowledge, skills, location, and abilities, as required by the role, as well as internal equity and alignment with market data.
Typically, new team members join at the minimum to mid salary range.
Minimum to Midpoint Range (Hourly): $73.13 to $82.95

Stanford Medicine Children's Health (SMCH) strongly values diversity and is committed to equal opportunity and non-discrimination in all of its policies and practices, including the area of employment. Accordingly, SMCH does not discriminate against any person on the basis of race, color, sex, sexual orientation or gender identity, religion, age, national or ethnic origin, political beliefs, marital status, medical condition, genetic information, veteran status, or disability, or the perception of any of the above. People of all genders, members of all racial and ethnic groups, people with disabilities, and veterans are encouraged to apply. Qualified applicants with criminal convictions will be considered after an individualized assessment of the conviction and the job requirements, and where applicable, in compliance with the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance.