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Exercise Science Research Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Senior Scientist, R&D Chemistry

Irvine, CA

$98K - $134K/yr

The Senior Scientist, R&D Chemistry, works under limited supervision and uses knowledge of ... Develops solutions to problems of moderate scope and complexity through the exercise of judgment ...

The Senior Scientist, R&D Chemistry, works under limited supervision and uses knowledge of ... Develops solutions to problems of moderate scope and complexity through the exercise of judgment ...

Science Copywriter

Hercules, CA · On-site

$78 - $107/hr

Candidates may be asked to perform a practical editing exercise as part of the interview process ... research and clinical diagnostic products. We help people everywhere live longer, healthier lives.

Showing results 21-40

Exercise Science Research information

See California salary details

$11.4K

$77.4K

$88.2K

How much do exercise science research jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for exercise science research in California is $77,442.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $85,600.00 and $86,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is exercise science research?

Exercise science research involves the systematic study of how physical activity, exercise, and sports impact human health, performance, and disease prevention. Researchers in this field investigate a range of topics including biomechanics, physiology, nutrition, psychology, and motor control. The goal is to understand how exercise affects the body and mind so that effective programs and recommendations can be developed for individuals and populations. Exercise science research is crucial for advancing knowledge in sports performance, rehabilitation, and overall health promotion.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an exercise science researcher?

To thrive as an Exercise Science Researcher, you need a solid background in physiology, biomechanics, and data analysis, usually supported by a relevant degree such as a master's or PhD in exercise science or a related field. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, statistical analysis software (like SPSS or R), and research methodologies is essential. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication skills are crucial for designing studies and sharing findings. These skills ensure rigorous research practices, accurate data interpretation, and impactful contributions to the advancement of exercise science.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in exercise science research, and how can they be overcome?

Professionals in Exercise Science Research often encounter challenges such as recruiting and retaining study participants, ensuring data reliability, and managing complex interdisciplinary projects. Building strong relationships with local communities and athletic organizations can improve participant engagement. Additionally, collaborating closely with colleagues from nutrition, physiology, and medical backgrounds helps ensure comprehensive research design and analysis. Staying current with advancements in technology and research methodology also supports high-quality, impactful studies.

What is the difference between Exercise Science Research vs Exercise Physiologist?

AspectExercise Science ResearchExercise Physiologist
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Exercise Science or related field; research experience often preferredBachelor's or Master's in Exercise Physiology; certification (e.g., ACSM) often required
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, universities, research institutionsClinics, hospitals, fitness centers, sports facilities
Employer & IndustryAcademic institutions, research organizations, government agenciesHealthcare providers, fitness industry, sports teams
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding research roles in exercise scienceCareer as a practicing exercise physiologist

Exercise Science Research focuses on conducting studies to advance knowledge in exercise and human performance, often within academic or research settings. In contrast, Exercise Physiologists apply exercise principles directly to improve health and fitness in clinical or fitness environments. Both roles require related educational backgrounds but differ in daily tasks and work settings.

How to become an exercise science researcher?

To become an exercise science researcher, typically a bachelor's degree in exercise science, kinesiology, or a related field is required, followed by a master's or doctoral degree for advanced research roles. Developing skills in research methods, data analysis, and laboratory techniques, along with experience in scientific studies, is essential for success in this field.

What else can I do with an exercise science research degree?

An exercise science research degree prepares individuals for careers in academia, sports performance, rehabilitation, and health promotion. Graduates can work as exercise physiologists, research scientists, strength and conditioning coaches, or health educators, often requiring certifications like ACSM or NSCA. The degree also provides a foundation for advanced study or roles involving data analysis, program development, and clinical assessment.

What jobs can you get with a PhD in exercise science?

A PhD in exercise science qualifies individuals for research positions in academia, government agencies, or private industry, focusing on human performance, rehabilitation, or health promotion. Graduates often work as university professors, research scientists, exercise physiologists, or consultants, utilizing skills in data analysis, experimental design, and advanced knowledge of physiology and biomechanics.

What are popular job titles related to Exercise Science Research jobs in California?

For Exercise Science Research jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in California are hiring for Exercise Science Research jobs?

Cities in California with the most Exercise Science Research job openings:

Infographic showing various Exercise Science Research job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 83% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $77,442 per year, or $37.2 per hour.

Assistant Professor of Biomechanics

CALIFORNIA STATE UNIVERSITY

Long Beach, CA • On-site

$6.2K - $13K/mo

Full-time

Re-posted 15 days ago


California State University rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 46 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

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Job description

Assistant Professor of Biomechanics

Apply now Job no: 559854
Work type: Instructional Faculty - Tenured/Tenure-Track
Location: Long Beach
Categories: Unit 3 - CFA - California Faculty Association, Tenured/Tenure-Track, Full Time, Faculty - Health Sciences

Position: Assistant Professor of Biomechanics
Effective Date: August 17, 2027 (Fall Semester)
Salary Range: The Assistant Professor (Academic Year) classification salary is $6,221 to $13,224/per month (12 monthly payments per academic year). The anticipated hiring range is $7,200 to $7,800/per month. Salary offered is commensurate with qualifications and experience.
Application Deadline: Review of applications to begin October 15, 2026.  Position open until filled (or recruitment canceled).

California State University, Long Beach (CSULB) is a Hispanic Serving Institution (HSI) and an Asian American and Native American Pacific Islander-Serving Institution (AANAPISI). CSULB earned the prestigious Seal of Excelencia in 2023, joining a distinctive group of colleges and universities who have been recognized for its commitment to Latine/x student success. CSULB is committed to serving diverse students and has established and actively supports the Black Excellence Collegium, dedicated to promoting Black excellence and advancing Black Student Success, and El Concilio for Latinx Success at the Beach, whose mission is to build capacity and promote inclusive servingness across initiatives and efforts for the benefit of all students. The President's Equity and Change Commission is dedicated to achieving inclusive excellence in our community and culture and throughout the university.  CSULB's Beach 2030 University Action Plans prioritize engaging all students; expanding access to higher education; promoting intellectual achievement; building community; and cultivating resilience.

College of Health and Human Services
Department of Kinesiology

Required Qualifications:

  • Ph.D. with specialization in biomechanics or a highly related field, such as Kinesiology, Exercise Science, Biomedical Engineering, Movement Science, or Rehabilitation Science. Degree at time of application or official notification of completion of the doctoral degree by August 1, 2027.
  • Demonstrated potential for teaching at the college level
  • Demonstrated potential for research, scholarly and creative activities in biomechanics
  • Working knowledge of biomechanics specific computer hardware and software (motion analysis systems, Visual3D, Theia, MATLAB, OpenSim, Labview, etc.)
  • Demonstrated commitment to working successfully with a diverse student population, including low socioeconomic and first-generation students

 Preferred Qualifications:

  • Experience teaching graduate and undergraduate biomechanics courses at the college level
  • Experience using musculoskeletal simulation software (i.e. OpenSim)
  • Experience using programming software (i.e. MATLAB, Python, R)
  • Experience maintaining software and hardware related to biomechanics research
  • Teaching experience in at least one of the following areas: functional anatomy, strength and conditioning, and/or motor control/learning
  • Focused research agenda with a record of publications/presentations
  • Potential to develop/obtain grants and external funding
  • Evidence of professional activities
  • Experience successfully working with populations demographically and/or socioeconomically similar to the CSULB student body.

Duties:

  • Teach undergraduate and graduate classes in biomechanics, research methods/statistics, and other electives for the exercise science option area. (Mode of instruction may include in-person, hybrid, online, and/or any combination thereof.)
  • Supervise undergraduate and graduate student research
  • Serve on master's thesis and comprehensive exam committees
  • Academic advising to Exercise Science majors
  • Develop and sustain internal/external funding to support research activities
  • Collaborate with other faculty on research
  • Assist in the management of the Movement Science Laboratory
  • Participate in service to the department, college, and university committees, as appropriate.

CSULB seeks to recruit faculty who enthusiastically support the University's strong commitment to the academic success of all of our students, including students with disabilities, students who are first generation to college, veterans, students with diverse socio-economic backgrounds, and students of diverse sexual orientations and gender expressions. CSULB seeks to recruit and retain a diverse workforce as a reflection of our commitment to serve the People of California, to maintain the excellence of the University, and to offer our students a rich variety of expertise, perspectives, and ways of knowing and learning.

About the College:
The College of Health & Human Services has 11 departments, including three clinical programs (Nursing, Physical Therapy, and Speech Language Pathology).  We have 21 bachelor's degree programs, 22 master's degrees, and three doctoral programs. We have over 8,000 students with the largest number of graduate students in the university (above 2200). We have over 2,200 affiliation agreements with community partners, including hospitals, clinical and internship sites.

About the Department:
The Department of Kinesiology offers degree programs for both undergraduate and graduate candidates that prepare students for work in a variety of areas including athletic training, fitness, exercise science, physical education

Information on excellent benefits package available to CSULB faculty is located here: CSU Employee Benefits

How to Apply - Required Documentation:

  • A Student Success Statement about your teaching or other experiences, successes, and challenges in working with a diverse student population (maximum two pages, single-spaced). For further information and guidelines, please visit: Student Success Statement
  • Letter of application addressing the required and preferred qualifications
  • CV
  • Names and contact information for three references (to be contacted for confidential letters of recommendation should you reach the finalist stage)
  • Evidence of teaching effectiveness (e.g., course evaluations), if applicable
  • Finalists should be prepared to submit an official transcript (e-transcript preferred, if available)

How to Apply: Click Apply Now icon to complete the CSULB online application

Requests for information and process should be addressed to:

Kevin Valenzuela, Ph.D., CSCS
California State University, Long Beach
Department of Kinesiology
Phone: 562.985.4051
Kevin.valenzuela@csulb.edu

Requests for information about the position should be addressed to:

Kevin Valenzuela, Ph.D., CSCS
Kevin.valenzuela@csulb.edu

Important Notice: CSULB is currently not sponsoring applicants for H-1B employment for faculty that are subject to the $100,000 fee established by the "Presidential Proclamation: Restriction on Entry of Certain Nonimmigrant Workers" issued on September 19, 2025. Applicants are responsible for determining the applicability of the fee.

EMPLOYMENT REQUIREMENTS:
A background check (including a criminal records check and telephone reference check with most recent employer) must be completed satisfactorily before any candidate can be offered a position with the CSU. Failure to satisfactorily complete the background check may affect the application status of applicants or continued employment of current CSU employees who apply for the position.

Applicants will be required to disclose whether they have received a final administrative decision or final judicial decision determining that they have committed sexual harassment within the last seven years only after a determination is made that they meet the minimum qualifications for the position, and before an offer of employment is extended. Applicants who reach the final stages of the application process must sign a release form that authorizes the release of information by the applicant's current and/or former employers to the CSU concerning any substantiated allegations of misconduct.

The person holding this position is considered a "mandated reporter" under the California Child Abuse and Neglect Reporting Act and is required to comply with the requirements set forth in CSU Executive Order 1083 Revised July 21, 2017 as a condition of employment. Pursuant to the CSU Out of State Employment Policy, hiring employees to perform CSU-related work outside of California is prohibited effective January 1, 2022. By prohibiting employment outside of California, the CSU also prohibits hiring and retaining employees working permanently from a business location outside of the United States. Exceptions to the Policy are limited to approved and documented purposes for conducting CSU business outside of California. 

All employees who assign and/or oversee work are responsible for ensuring that compliant work controls and procedures consistent with Federal, State and local regulations and University policies are implemented and maintained to provide for the protection of individuals and to safeguard the environment. Everyone is expected to comply with applicable Environmental Health and Safety regulations and University policies, programs and procedures. For more information, the systemwide policy can be found at https://calstate.policystat.com/policy/18172024/latest/ and questions may be sent to Environmental_Health_Safety@csulb.edu.

All university program and activities are open and available to all regardless of race, sex, color, ethnicity, or national origin. Consistent with CSU's Nondiscrimination Policy, as well as state and federal law, CSULB provides equal opportunity in education and employment without unlawful discrimination or preferential treatment based on race, sex, color, ethnicity or national origin. To access CSULB's full statement on Equal Opportunity and Excellence in Education and Employment, please visit Equity and Compliance.

Advertised: Jul 21, 2026 (2:30 PM) Pacific Daylight Time
Applications close:

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About California State University

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California State University, Fresno is one of 23 campuses in the California State University System. The University's mission is to boldly educate and empower students for success through our values of Discovery, Diversity and Distinction. The current student population is more than 25,000, including a large percentage of students with diverse and culturally rich backgrounds. The University serves the San Joaquin Valley while maintaining deep involvement with the state, nation, and across the globe.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Long Beach, CA, US