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Exercise Physiology Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Exercise Physiologist (Per Diem)

Marina, CA · On-site

$49.01 - $65.57/hr

Education Bachelor's degree in Exercise Science, Exercise Physiology, or Kinesiology required. Licensure/Certifications American Heart Association Healthcare Provider BLS required. American College ...

Per Diem Exercise Physiologist

Visalia, CA · On-site

$23.37 - $35.05/hr

Bachelor's degree in Exercise Physiology, Exercise Science, or Kinesiology. JOB RESPONSIBILITIES Essential Administers health screenings/fitness testing both on and off site. Gives exercise ...

Bachelor's degree in Exercise Physiology, Exercise Science, or Kinesiology. JOB RESPONSIBILITIES * Essential Administers health screenings/fitness testing both on and off site. * Gives exercise ...

Per Diem Exercise Physiologist

Visalia, CA · On-site

$23.37 - $35.05/hr

Bachelor's degree in Exercise Physiology, Exercise Science, or Kinesiology. JOB RESPONSIBILITIES Essential Administers health screenings/fitness testing both on and off site. Gives exercise ...

Exercise Physiologist

San Diego, CA · On-site

$65K - $70K/yr

Exercise Science, Exercise Physiology, Kinesiology or a related field of studyDegree must be from an accredited college or university. Education Details: Master's degree from an accredited college or ...

Exercise Physiologist

San Diego, CA · On-site

$80K - $83K/yr

Exercise Science, Exercise Physiology, Kinesiology or a related field of study Degree must be from an accredited college or university. Education Details: • Master's degree from an accredited ...

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Exercise Physiology information

See California salary details

$12

$27

$46

How much do exercise physiology jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for exercise physiology 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 is exercise physiology?

Exercise physiology is the study of how the body responds and adapts to physical activity and exercise. It involves understanding how different systems—such as the cardiovascular, respiratory, and muscular systems—function during movement and training. Exercise physiologists use this knowledge to help people improve fitness, manage chronic diseases, enhance athletic performance, and recover from injuries. They often work in healthcare settings, sports organizations, research, or fitness centers.

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 strong background in human anatomy, physiology, and exercise science, usually supported by a bachelor's or master's degree in exercise physiology or a related field. Familiarity with exercise testing equipment, data analysis software, and, in some cases, certifications such as ACSM-EP are standard requirements. Excellent interpersonal skills, motivational ability, and clear communication are crucial for effectively educating and guiding clients or patients. These skills and qualifications are important to ensure safe, evidence-based interventions and meaningful health outcomes for diverse populations.

What are some of the most common challenges faced by exercise physiologists when designing client programs?

Exercise physiologists often face challenges such as tailoring exercise plans to fit clients with complex medical histories or multiple health conditions, ensuring programs are both safe and effective. Time constraints during assessments and follow-up sessions can also make it difficult to monitor progress and adjust routines. Additionally, motivating clients to adhere to prescribed programs outside of sessions and collaborating with other healthcare professionals to coordinate care are frequent aspects of the role. Overcoming these challenges requires strong communication skills, up-to-date knowledge of best practices, and adaptability in program design.

What is the difference between Exercise Physiology vs Physical Therapy?

AspectExercise PhysiologyPhysical Therapy
CredentialsCertified Exercise Physiologist (CEP), Bachelor's or Master's in Exercise ScienceLicensed Physical Therapist (PT), Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT)
Work EnvironmentClinics, gyms, sports teams, rehabilitation centersHospitals, outpatient clinics, rehab centers
Industry UsageHealth promotion, sports performance, rehabilitationRehabilitation, injury recovery, pain management

Exercise physiologists focus on improving overall fitness, health, and performance through exercise programs, while physical therapists specialize in rehabilitating injuries and restoring mobility. Both roles require related certifications and often work in healthcare or fitness settings, but their primary goals and patient interactions differ.

How much does an exercise physiologist make annually?

An exercise physiologist typically earns an average annual salary of around $50,000 to $70,000, depending on experience, location, and work setting. Certification and specialized skills can influence earning potential, and many work in clinical, rehabilitation, or fitness environments.

Is exercise physiology a good career?

Exercise physiology is a growing field focused on applying exercise principles to improve health and performance, often requiring certification and knowledge of human anatomy and physiology. It offers opportunities in clinical, sports, and wellness settings, with job stability increasing as awareness of preventive health expands.

What exactly does an exercise physiologist do?

An exercise physiologist assesses individuals' fitness levels and develops personalized exercise programs to improve health, manage chronic diseases, or enhance athletic performance. They often work in clinical, rehabilitation, or fitness settings and may require certification such as the Certified Exercise Physiologist credential.

What jobs come from exercise physiology?

Exercise physiology graduates can pursue careers such as clinical exercise physiologists, sports scientists, rehabilitation specialists, and fitness trainers. These roles often involve assessing physical fitness, developing exercise programs, and working in healthcare, sports, or wellness settings, sometimes requiring certification or licensure. The field emphasizes knowledge of human anatomy, physiology, and exercise techniques to improve health and performance.

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

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

What cities in California are hiring for Exercise Physiology jobs?

Cities in California with the most Exercise Physiology job openings:

Infographic showing various Exercise Physiology job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 70% Full Time, 23% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $58,202 per year, or $28 per hour.

Full-time

Posted 10 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • 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 reports completion.

  • Participates in the Cardiac Rehabilitation program, including patient teaching and direction.


Stanford Medicine Children's Health rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 14 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Category: Rehabilitation
Job Type: Full time
Shift: Rotating - 08 Hour
Location: Palo Alto, CA
Req: P145426-3055
Employee Group: Non-Exempt/Non-Represented
Benefits Eligible: Yes
Remote Eligible: No
Department: Echo Cardiology
Scheduled Weekly Hours: 40
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 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.
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.
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.

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