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Exercise Science Instructor Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

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Employee Assistance Program & Retirement Plan General Function The Group Ex Instructor will be ... Proven knowledge of exercise science, movement coaching, and movement competency * Completion of ...

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Exercise Science Instructor information

See Michigan salary details

$34K

$54.5K

$76.3K

How much do exercise science instructor jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 23, 2026, the average yearly pay for exercise science instructor in Michigan is $54,511.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $36,600.00 and $62,800.00 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 Michigan? For Exercise Science Instructor jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Exercise Science Instructor jobs in Michigan look for? The top searched job categories for Exercise Science Instructor jobs in Michigan are:
What are popular job titles related to Exercise Science Instructor jobs in MI? For Exercise Science Instructor jobs in MI, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Exercise Science Instructor job openings in Michigan as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 43% Full Time, 46% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 8% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,511 per year, or $26.2 per hour.
Adjunct Instructor - Exercise Science

Adjunct Instructor - Exercise Science

Ferris State University

Big Rapids, MI โ€ข On-site

$1.3K/wk

Temporary

Medical, PTO

Posted 16 days ago


Ferris State University rating

5.7

Company rating: 5.7 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

504th of 539 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Adjunct Instructor - Exercise Science
Job no: 497773
Work type: Faculty - Temporary & Continuing
Location: Big Rapids, MI 49307
Categories: Faculty
Position Title: Adjunct Instructor - Exercise Science
Location: Big Rapids (Main Campus)
Department:
32607 - Exercise Science
Advertised Salary: $1,353 per credit hour. If advanced degree held in primary academic discipline the minimum rate increases to $1,458. Salary commensurate with qualifications pursuant to the FSU and FNTFO/AFT Agreement.
Benefits:
Comprehensive benefit package (health care, vacation, etc.). Please see the following link for a list of benefits offered with this position.
Adjunct Faculty
FLSA: Exempt
Temporary/Continuing: Temporary
Part-Time/Full-Time: Part-Time
Union Group: Ferris Nontenure-Track Faculty Organization (FNTFO) (AFT)
Term of Position: As Needed
At Will/Just Cause: Just Cause
Summary of Position: Potential courses include Introduction to Exercise Science, Introduction to Fitness and Wellness, and First Aid and Emergency Management via lecture and laboratory classes for students for the Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science degree. This is a pooled position. One or more applicants may be hired as needed on a semester-by-semester basis. Courses are to be taught in person on one of Ferris State University's Campuses. The candidate(s) selected for the position must reside in Michigan after acceptance of employment.
The anticipated start date of this position is August of 2026 at the earliest and January of 2027 at the latest. However, these are estimated dates and can be revised if needed.
Position Type: Faculty - Temporary & Continuing
Required Education: Master's degree in Exercise Science or closely related field (e.g. Kinesiology, Biomechanics, Athletic Training, or Human Performance)
Required Work Experience: Minimum of two years of work experience in their field of study and/or in higher education
Required Licenses and Certifications:
Physical Demands:
  • Office Environment
  • Bending
  • Moving
  • Reaching
  • Sitting
  • Twisting
  • Lifting
  • Pulling/Pushing
  • Repetitive movement
  • Standing

Additional Education/Experiences to be Considered:
Essential Duties/Responsibilities: Provide instruction in classrooms, laboratories, or online for students in the bachelor's degree of Exercise Science program as assigned in the College of Health Professions.
Cultivate an environment of belonging that values, respects, supports, and celebrates individual similarities and differences, allowing students, faculty and staff to thrive authentically.
Support, promote, and develop university student enrollment and retention initiatives.
Any other duties assigned within the position classification area.
Faculty members also have professional responsibilities, which may include but are not limited to keeping regular posted office hours (which are scheduled at times convenient for students) and participation in traditional functions which have academic significance (i.e. reporting initial student participation data and submitting final grades on time). Faculty may be required to teach off-campus or in an online environment.
Faculty may be required to teach off-campus or in an on-line environment.
Marginal Duties/Responsibilities:
Skills and Abilities: Effectively teach assigned courses, assist in development of course content, utilization of Canvas for disseminating course information and recording grades, respond to students' questions and concerns in a timely manner. Demonstrated successful experience working directly with people from diverse backgrounds, including cultural, educational, socioeconomic, and life experiences
Required Documents:
  • Cover Letter
  • Unofficial Transcript 1
  • Curriculum Vitae

Optional Documents: Unofficial Transcript 2 (OPTIONAL): Applicants who have completed college coursework or attained a degree must attach a copy of unofficial transcript. Transcript must include: Institution name, applicant name, date degree attained, degree awarded.
Finalist will be required to submit an official transcript.
Special Instructions to Applicants: Unofficial Transcript 1 (REQUIRED): Applicants must attach a copy of unofficial transcript of master's degree. Transcript must include: Institution name, applicant name, date degree attained, degree awarded.
Finalist will be required to submit an official transcript.
Initial Application Review Date:
May 26, 2026
Open Until Position is Filled?: Yes
Posting Close Date:
EEO Statement: Ferris State University, an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity employer, is committed to enhancing equity, inclusion, and diversity within its community. Ferris offers employment opportunities to qualified candidates seeking careers in a student-focused environment that values opportunity, collaboration, diversity and educational excellence. Learn more about the Ferris Mission and community at ferris.edu. The University actively seeks applications from women, minorities, individuals with disabilities, veterans, and other underrepresented groups. For more information on the University's Policy on Non-Discrimination, visit: Ferris Non-Discrimination Statement.
Click here to learn more about working at FSU and KCAD.
Advertised: 08 May 2026 Eastern Daylight Time
Applications close:
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