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Exercise Science Degree Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Exercise Specialist

Cupertino, CA · On-site

$38 - $46/hr

Bachelor's Degree in Exercise Science, Exercise Physiology, or Kinesiology. Master's Degree preferred. Certified American College of Sports Medicine Exercise Physiologist (ACSM-EP) or with ...

Degree in Kinesiology or Exercise Science OR accredited group fitness certification preferred * Minimum of 6 months experience (or equivalent education) preferred * Ability to speak English clearly ...

Group Exercise Instructor

Alameda, CA · On-site

$18.50 - $20.50/hr

Degree in Kinesiology or Exercise Science OR accredited group fitness certification preferred * Minimum of 6 months experience (or equivalent education) preferred * Ability to speak English clearly ...

Exercise Specialist

Cupertino, CA · On-site

$38 - $46/hr

Bachelor's Degree in Exercise Science, Exercise Physiology, or Kinesiology. Master's Degree preferred. Certified American College of Sports Medicine Exercise Physiologist (ACSM-EP) or with ...

Bachelor's Degree in Exercise Science, Exercise Physiology, or Kinesiology. Master's Degree preferred. Certified American College of Sports Medicine Exercise Physiologist (ACSM-EP) or with ...

Group Exercise Instructor

Alameda, CA · On-site

$18.50 - $20.50/hr

Degree in Kinesiology or Exercise Science OR accredited group fitness certification preferred * Minimum of 6 months experience (or equivalent education) preferred * Ability to speak English clearly ...

Exercise Physiologist

San Diego, CA · On-site

$80K - $83K/yr

Master's Degree Major: 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 ...

New

$22.07 - $34.21/hr

Specify Degree(s): Exercise Physiology, Exercise Science, or Kinesiology * 1-2 years of previous job-related experience with direct patient care performing cardiac stress tests/cardiac rehabilitation

$22.07 - $34.21/hr

Specify Degree(s): Exercise Physiology, Exercise Science, or Kinesiology * 1-2 years of previous job-related experience with direct patient care performing cardiac stress tests/cardiac rehabilitation

Master's Degree Major: 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 ...

New

Showing results 21-40

Exercise Science Degree information

See California salary details

$12

$27

$46

How much do exercise science degree jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for exercise science degree 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.

Is an exercise science degree worth it?

An exercise science degree prepares individuals for careers in fitness training, rehabilitation, and health promotion, often requiring certifications like ACSM or NSCA. The degree can lead to job opportunities in gyms, clinics, and sports organizations, with salary potential depending on experience and specialization.

What can you do with an Exercise Science degree?

An Exercise Science degree can open doors to various career paths in health, fitness, rehabilitation, and sports. Graduates often work as personal trainers, strength and conditioning coaches, exercise physiologists, or wellness coordinators. Some pursue advanced degrees for roles in physical therapy, occupational therapy, or athletic training. The degree provides a strong foundation in anatomy, physiology, and movement science, which is valuable in both clinical and non-clinical settings.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive with an Exercise Science degree, and why are they important?

To thrive with an Exercise Science degree, you need a strong understanding of human anatomy, physiology, exercise prescription, and often a bachelor's degree in exercise science or a related field. Familiarity with fitness assessment tools, laboratory equipment, and certifications such as ACSM or NSCA are commonly required for many roles. Excellent communication, motivational skills, and adaptability help professionals connect with clients and tailor programs effectively. These skills and qualifications are crucial for promoting health, maximizing physical performance, and ensuring client safety in fitness and rehabilitation settings.

What is the difference between Exercise Science Degree vs Personal Trainer?

AspectExercise Science DegreePersonal Trainer
Required CredentialsDegree in exercise science or related field; certifications may enhance prospectsCertification from organizations like NASM, ACE, or ACSM
Work EnvironmentUniversities, research labs, healthcare settings, fitness facilitiesGyms, fitness centers, private clients, outdoor settings
Industry UsageAcademic, research, clinical, and fitness industriesPersonal fitness training, client coaching, health clubs

While an Exercise Science Degree provides a broad foundation in human movement, health, and research, a Personal Trainer certification focuses on practical fitness coaching and client interaction. Both roles are integral to the fitness industry, but the degree offers more diverse career options, including research and healthcare, whereas personal trainers primarily work directly with clients to improve fitness levels.

What types of career paths can graduates with an Exercise Science degree pursue, and how do these roles typically interact with other professionals?

Graduates with an Exercise Science degree can pursue diverse career paths, including roles as exercise physiologists, fitness trainers, strength and conditioning coaches, wellness coordinators, and rehabilitation specialists. These professionals often collaborate closely with healthcare providers, physical therapists, nutritionists, and athletic coaches to design effective fitness or rehabilitation programs. The collaborative nature of the work encourages continuous learning and exposes professionals to multidisciplinary teams, which can open doors to advanced roles in clinical, corporate wellness, or sports performance settings. Such teamwork also helps develop strong communication and leadership skills, valuable for career advancement.
What cities in California are hiring for Exercise Science Degree jobs? Cities in California with the most Exercise Science Degree job openings:
Infographic showing various Exercise Science Degree job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $58,202 per year, or $28 per hour.

Exercise Physiologist, Cardiac Rehab - 139551

University of California San Diego

San Diego, CA • On-site

$39.48 - $49.10/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 3 days ago


University Of California San Diego rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 40 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

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Job description

Payroll Title:
HOSP LAB TCHN 3 Department:
La Jolla Cardiac Rehab Hiring Pay Scale
$39.48 - $49.10 / Hour Worksite:
Jacobs Medical Center Appointment Type:
Career Appointment Percent:
100% Union:
EX Contract Total Openings:
2 Work Schedule:
Days, 10-Hour Shifts, Monday-Friday
#139551 Exercise Physiologist, Cardiac Rehab
Initial Review Date: Thu 8/6/2026
Apply Now
UC San Diego values and welcomes people from all backgrounds. If you are interested in being part of our team, possess the needed licensure and certifications, and feel that you have most of the qualifications and/or transferable skills for a job opening, we strongly encourage you to apply.
UCSD Layoff from Career Appointment : Apply by 5/07/26 for consideration with preference for rehire. All layoff applicants should contact their Employment Advisor.
Reassignment Applicants : Eligible Reassignment clients should contact their Disability Counselor for assistance.
DESCRIPTION
The Cardiovascular Rehabilitation and Wellness Center at UC San Diego Health offers Intensive and Standard Cardiac Rehabilitation and other wellness programs that are designed to help patients with and without heart disease lead healthier lives.
As part of our multidisciplinary team, the Clinical Exercise Physiologist is responsible for direct patient care activities including supervising cardiac rehabilitation patients, conducting initial orientation visits, developing and implementing exercise prescriptions, case management, performing fitness evaluations and educating patients on risk factor reduction, behavior intervention and lifestyle change.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
  • Bachelor degree in Exercise Science, Exercise Physiology, or Kinesiology.
  • Must obtain ACSM Certified Clinical Exercise Physiologist certification within six months of hire.
  • BART or BLS at time of hire with commitment to get BART within six (6) months of hire date.
  • Minimum of two years experience as an Exercise Physiologist in Outpatient Cardiac Rehabilitation.
  • Understanding and ability to apply exercise principles for variety of adult patient populations.
  • Ability to perform exercise testing parameters such as body fat, heart rate, and blood pressure.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
  • Master's degree in Exercise Science, Exercise Physiology or related field.
  • Certified Cardiac Rehabilitation Professional (CCRP).
SPECIAL CONDITIONS
  • Must be able to take call, work other shifts, overtime, weekends, and holidays at the need of the department.
  • Employment is subject to a criminal background check and pre-employment physical.
Pay Transparency Act
Annual Full Pay Range: $87,404 - $108,743 (will be prorated if the appointment percentage is less than 100%)
Hourly Equivalent: $41.86 - $52.08
Factors in determining the appropriate compensation for a role include experience, skills, knowledge, abilities, education, licensure and certifications, and other business and organizational needs. The Hiring Pay Scale referenced in the job posting is the budgeted salary or hourly range that the University reasonably expects to pay for this position. The Annual Full Pay Range may be broader than what the University anticipates to pay for this position, based on internal equity, budget, and collective bargaining agreements (when applicable).
Apply Now
If employed by the University of California, you will be required to comply with our Policy on Vaccination Programs, which may be amended or revised from time to time. Federal, state, or local public health directives may impose additional requirements. If applicable, life-support certifications (BLS, NRP, ACLS, etc.) must include hands-on practice and in-person skills assessment; online-only certification is not acceptable.
UC San Diego Health is the only academic health system in the San Diego region, providing leading-edge care in patient care, biomedical research, education, and community service. Our facilities include two university hospitals, a National Cancer Institute-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center, Shiley Eye Institute, Sulpizio Cardiovascular Center, the only Burn Center in the county, and dozens of outpatient clinics. We invite you to join our team!
Applications/Resumes are accepted for current job openings only. For full consideration on any job, applications must be received prior to the initial closing date. If a job has an extended deadline, applications/resumes will be considered during the extension period; however, a job may be filled before the extended date is reached.
To foster the best possible working and learning environment, UC San Diego strives to cultivate a rich and diverse environment, inclusive and supportive of all students, faculty, staff and visitors. For more information, please visit UC San Diego Principles of Community .
The University of California is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status, or other protected status under state or federal law.
For the University of California's Anti-Discrimination Policy, please visit: https://policy.ucop.edu/doc/1001004/Anti-Discrimination
UC San Diego is a smoke and tobacco free environment. Please visit smokefree.ucsd.edu for more information.
UC San Diego Health maintains a marijuana and drug free environment. Employees may be subject to drug screening.
Misconduct Disclosure Requirement: As a condition of employment, the final candidate who accepts an offer of employment will be required to disclose if they have been subject to any final administrative or judicial decisions within the last seven years determining that they committed any misconduct; or have filed an appeal of a finding of substantiated misconduct with a previous employer.
a. "Misconduct" means any violation of the policies governing employee conduct at the applicant's previous place of employment, including, but not limited to, violations of policies prohibiting sexual harassment, sexual assault, or other forms of harassment, or discrimination, as defined by the employer. For reference, below are UC's policies addressing some forms of misconduct:
  • UC Sexual Violence and Sexual Harassment Policy
  • UC Anti-Discrimination Policy
  • Abusive Conduct in the Workplace

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