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Exercise Science Instructor Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Lifespace Communities

Fitness Instructor

Chicago, IL · On-site

$21.30 - $29.32/hr

Join our dynamic Lifestyle team as our new Fitness Instructor today! A few details about the role ... Associate degree in exercise science or related field. Bachelor's degree preferred. * Two to three ...

Lifespace Communities

Fitness Instructor

Chicago, IL

$21.30 - $29.32/hr

Join our dynamic Lifestyle team as our new Fitness Instructor today! A few details about the role ... Associate degree in exercise science or related field. Bachelor's degree preferred. * Two to three ...

Life Time

Group Instructor and Coach

Cary, IL

Energetic group fitness instructors and performance-minded coaches Key Focus: Functional strength ... Bachelor's degree in Exercise Science, Kinesiology, or a related field * Experience teaching across ...

Career Site

Group Fitness Instructor

Chicago, IL · On-site

Job Title: Group Fitness Instructor Department: Fitness Reports to: Fitness Director/Facility ... Educational background in Physical Education, Exercise Science, Health Education, or a related ...

Life Time, Inc.

Barre Instructor

Vernon Hills, IL · On-site

$50 - $85/hr

Energetic group fitness instructors and performance-minded coaches Key Focus: Functional strength ... Bachelor's degree in Exercise Science, Kinesiology, or a related field * Experience teaching across ...

Life Time, Inc.

Barre Instructor

Skokie, IL · On-site

$50 - $85/hr

Energetic group fitness instructors and performance-minded coaches Key Focus: Functional strength ... Bachelor's degree in Exercise Science, Kinesiology, or a related field * Experience teaching across ...

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All JobsExercise Science Instructor JobsExercise Science Instructor Jobs in Illinois

Exercise Science Instructor information

See Illinois salary details

$37.8K

$60.6K

$84.8K

How much do exercise science instructor jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 18, 2026, the average yearly pay for exercise science instructor in Illinois is $60,605.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $40,700.00 and $69,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as an Exercise Science Instructor, you need a solid background in exercise physiology, kinesiology, and health sciences, typically supported by at least a bachelor's or master's degree in exercise science or a related field. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, fitness assessment tools, and possibly certifications like ACSM or NSCA is often expected. Strong communication, leadership, and motivational skills are essential for effectively teaching and inspiring students. These competencies ensure you can deliver high-quality education, prepare students for industry standards, and foster a positive learning environment.

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

AspectExercise Science InstructorPersonal Trainer
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in exercise science or related field; certifications like ACSM or NASM often preferredRequires certification (e.g., NASM, ACE); degree not always necessary
Work EnvironmentEducational settings, gyms, community centers, health clubsGyms, fitness centers, private clients, outdoor settings
Employer & IndustryEducational institutions, fitness organizations, health programsPrivate gyms, fitness chains, individual clients

Exercise Science Instructors focus on teaching exercise principles, health education, and may work in academic or community settings. Personal Trainers primarily design and implement personalized fitness programs for clients. While both roles require fitness certifications, Exercise Science Instructors often have a stronger academic background, whereas Personal Trainers focus on client-specific training. Both roles are vital in the fitness industry but serve different purposes and environments.

What are some common challenges Exercise Science Instructors face when keeping course content current and engaging?

Exercise Science Instructors often need to stay updated with the latest research, trends, and technology in the health and fitness industry. This can be challenging due to the rapid pace of advancements in exercise physiology, nutrition, and training methodologies. Additionally, instructors must find creative ways to present complex scientific concepts in an engaging, accessible manner for diverse student populations. Regular collaboration with faculty peers and participation in professional development activities can help address these challenges and enhance the learning experience.

What does an Exercise Science Instructor do?

An Exercise Science Instructor teaches students about the scientific principles behind physical activity, exercise, and human movement. They design and deliver lectures, labs, and practical sessions covering topics such as anatomy, physiology, biomechanics, nutrition, and fitness assessment. In addition to classroom teaching, they may also guide students in research projects, supervise internships, and stay current with developments in exercise science. Their goal is to prepare students for careers in fitness, health promotion, rehabilitation, or further education in related fields.
What are popular job titles related to Exercise Science Instructor jobs in Illinois? For Exercise Science Instructor jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Exercise Science Instructor jobs in Illinois look for? The top searched job categories for Exercise Science Instructor jobs in Illinois are:
What are popular job titles related to Exercise Science Instructor jobs in IL? For Exercise Science Instructor jobs in IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Exercise Science Instructor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Exercise Science Instructor job openings in Illinois as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 30% Full Time, and 70% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $60,605 per year, or $29.1 per hour.
Adjunct Faculty- Physical Education Instructor

Adjunct Faculty- Physical Education Instructor

Illinois Central College

East Peoria, IL • On-site

Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 23 days ago

Job description

Position Title:
Adjunct Faculty- Physical Education Instructor
Campus:
East Peoria Campus, Peoria Campus
Employment Type:
Adjunct Faculty, FacultyPart time
Department:
Health Careers (JM - Faculty)
Start Date:
08/03/2026
Job Description:
Summary
Illinois Central College is looking for Adjunct Faculty to teach Physical Education Courses. If courses are available, adjuncts may continue to teach for future semesters.
The adjunct faculty are primarily responsible for instructing assigned courses meeting classroom standards. The adjunct faculty must follow institutional syllabi. The adjunct faculty teach on a part time basis up to 12 contact hours per semester. The adjunct faculty will need to provide instruction to a diverse group of students in the area of physical education. May include a combination of day, evening, weekend, and/or off-campus classes.
For information on compensation please click the link below.
Article - Adjunct Faculty Compensatio...
Applicants must be a resident of Illinois at the time of hire.
For submitting a complete application, please include a resume, cover letter, and unofficial transcripts.
Essential Functions
This list is meant to be representative, not exhaustive. Some incumbents may not perform all the duties listed while in other cases related duties may also be assigned. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
  • Instruct in classes ensuring all necessary materials and tools are readily available and that safety standards are met, when appropriate.
  • Follow syllabi for assigned courses communicating the expectations and schedule for the classwork.
  • Maintain office hours and availability.
  • Communicate with students working to ensure student success.
  • Collaborate with Faculty and Staff to continuously improve and adapt the student experience to meet the needs of the student, community and institution.
  • Perform related duties as required.

Minimum Qualifications
The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skills and abilities required to satisfactorily perform the essential duties and responsibilities.
  • Master's Degree in Physical Education, Kinesiology, Exercise Science or Master's degree with 18 graduate credit hours in Physical Education, Kinesiology, or Exercise Science.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Doctoral Degree.
  • Previous teaching experience, community college experience.
Illinois Central College offers a comprehensive benefit package for full-time employees, including:
  • paid time off;
  • 11 paid holidays; 2 floating holidays
  • medical, dental, vision, life and long-term disability insurance;
  • tuition waivers for employee, spouse and dependent children;
  • on-site childcare center;
  • 403(b) retirement plans; and
  • State University Retirement System pension plan.

To learn more about full-time health care benefits at ICC.

Apply