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Exercise Science Instructor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

$70.84 - $86.11/hr

Exercise Science and Wellness FTE: SUMMARY Under administrative leadership, it is the responsibility of part time faculty to perform tasks which support advancement of the visions, missions, and ...

Group Exercise Instructor

Alameda, CA · On-site

$18.50 - $20.50/hr

The Group Exercise Instructor leads classes for 2-10 seniors at a time with varying levels of ... Degree in Kinesiology or Exercise Science OR accredited group fitness certification preferred

Group Exercise Instructor

Alameda, CA · On-site

$18.50 - $20.50/hr

The Group Exercise Instructor leads classes for 2-10 seniors at a time with varying levels of ... Degree in Kinesiology or Exercise Science OR accredited group fitness certification preferred

The Group Exercise Instructor leads classes for 2-10 seniors at a time with varying levels of ... Degree in Kinesiology or Exercise Science OR accredited group fitness certification preferred

Showing results 41-60

Exercise Science Instructor information

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$39K

$62.5K

$87.5K

How much do exercise science instructor jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for exercise science instructor in the United States is $62,542.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $42,000.00 and $72,000.00 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.
More about Exercise Science Instructor jobs
What cities are hiring for Exercise Science Instructor jobs? Cities with the most Exercise Science Instructor job openings:
What states have the most Exercise Science Instructor jobs? States with the most job openings for Exercise Science Instructor jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Exercise Science Instructor jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Exercise Science Instructor jobs are:
Infographic showing various Exercise Science Instructor job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 20% Full Time, and 80% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $62,542 per year, or $30.1 per hour.

Exercise Science Program Director- Faculty/Instructor

SOUTH COLLEGE

Knoxville, TN • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 6 days ago


South College rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

336th of 616 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Description

South College - We are one of the nation's fastest growing institutions of higher learning ... come grow your career with us. In order to fully meet our Mission to our students, we require a diverse combination of perspectives, backgrounds, life experiences, and ideas from our faculty and staff and will provide them with an equitable and inclusive work environment -where respect and open interchange of ideas are at the heart of that culture.


20,000 Students

10 Campuses

Competency Based Education

Online


Exercise Science Program Director Description

South College Knoxville seeks candidates for a full-time Exercise Science Program Director and faculty member. Successful candidates will have a minimum of a terminal degree in a related field, and preference will be given to candidates who have successfully taught courses in the online format.


The position is full-time on-site and will report directly to the Dean of Academics.


Responsibilities

  • The Program Director will teach sixteen (16) college-level courses per year.
  • Develop and implement courses for departmental program.
  • Develop strategies, evaluate progress, and implement policies that aid in student retention.
  • Monitor curricula to ensure compliance with South College standards and other accrediting bodies.
  • Monitor curricula to ensure uniform delivery and consistency within courses.
  • Assume responsibility for the logistics of course delivery including master course shells, syllabi, and textbooks.
  • Assign courses to full-time and adjunct faculty in accordance with South College's "Faculty Workloads Governing Principles for Faculty".
  • Manage recruitment, selection, training, evaluation, retention, and success of full-time and adjunct faculty.
  • Administer South College's program for professional growth and development, in-service training, and faculty meetings for program faculty.
  • Monitor all online courses to ensure timely student email responses from faculty, faculty grading turnaround (72 hours), and other items necessary for successful online course administration.
  • Develop faculty who can deliver instruction through online learning to meet the strategic goals of South College.
  • Participate in program evaluations and audits and implement recommendations as requested.
  • Assist in program budgetary needs.

Requirements

Education

  • Doctoral Degree in Exercise Science is preferred, minimum of a master's degree in Exercise Science is required.

Experience

  • Minimum 3 years experience in a leadership position. 
  • Minimum 3 years of experience in a CAAHEP accredited program.
  • Experience in developing a CAAHEP accredited program is preferred. 
  • Relevant professional experience in Exercise Science. 

What South College employees say

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