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Exercise Science Research Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Demonstrated ability to exercise discretion and independent judgment in conducting advanced scientific research and in preparing near-final scientific papers, technical analyses, and professional ...

Demonstrated ability to exercise discretion and independent judgment in conducting advanced scientific research and in preparing near-final scientific papers, technical analyses, and professional ...

As a research scientist you will be expected to work on new ideas and stay abreast of the field of ... company policies, exercise sound judgment, effectively manage stress and work safely and ...

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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 Jul 14, 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 jobs can you do as an exercise scientist?

Exercise scientists can work in roles such as exercise physiologists, research coordinators, or sports scientists, often in clinical, academic, or sports settings. They analyze human movement, develop fitness programs, and conduct research using tools like VO2 max testing and biomechanical analysis, often requiring certifications like ACSM or NSCA. These positions typically involve working with clients or research participants to improve health, performance, or rehabilitation outcomes.

How much do exercise science researchers make?

Exercise science researchers typically earn between $40,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience, education, and location. Advanced roles or those with specialized skills in data analysis or laboratory techniques may offer higher salaries, especially in academic or clinical settings.

What careers can I get with an exercise science degree?

An exercise science degree can lead to careers such as exercise physiologist, athletic trainer, fitness instructor, physical therapy assistant, or sports coach. These roles often require knowledge of human anatomy, physiology, and fitness assessment, and may require certifications like ACSM or NASM. Job settings include gyms, sports teams, healthcare facilities, and rehabilitation centers.

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.

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

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 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.

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 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 job categories do people searching Exercise Science Research jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Exercise Science Research jobs in California 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 July 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, and 33% Part Time. Highlights an 67% In-person, and 33% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $77,442 per year, or $37.2 per hour.
Group Exercise Instructor (USU)

Group Exercise Instructor (USU)

California State University

Northridge, CA • On-site

Part-time

Re-posted 29 days ago


California State University rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 44 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

226th of 553 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Group Exercise Instructor (USU)
Job no: 516464
Work type: Auxiliary
Location: Northridge
Categories: Part Time
ABOUT THE UNIVERSITY STUDENT UNION
The University Student Union, as the heart of campus, uplifts and empowers students to achieve educational, personal and professional goals by providing leadership development, meaningful employment, and innovative programs, services and facilities. We promote equity, inclusion and well-being, while encouraging social justice advocacy to help Matadors feel heard, respected and connected to CSUN. Our facilities include a University Student Union and a 138,000 square foot Student Recreation Center (SRC). The SRC is a facility for exercise and leisure activity that promotes lifelong health and wellness.
CSUN'S COMMITMENT TO YOU
CSUN is committed to achieving excellence through teaching, scholarship, learning and inclusion. Our values include a respect for all people, building partnerships with the community and the encouragement of innovation, experimentation and creativity. CSUN strives to cultivate a community in which a diverse population can learn and work in an atmosphere of civility and respect. CSUN is especially interested in candidates who make contributions to equity and inclusion in the pursuit of excellence for all members of the university community.
ABOUT THE UNIVERSITY
One of the largest universities in the country, California State University, Northridge (CSUN) is an urban, comprehensive university that delivers award-winning undergraduate and graduate programs to nearly 40,000 students annually and counts more than 330,000 alumni who elevate Southern California and beyond. Since its founding in 1958, CSUN has made a significant and long-term economic impact on California, generating nearly $1.9 billion in economic impact and more than 11,700 jobs each year. The LAEDC recognized CSUN as its 2015 Eddy Award winner for its positive economic impact. Serving more students on Pell Grants than any other institution in California, CSUN is also a social elevator and one of the most diverse universities in the country. CSUN ranks 13th in awarding bachelor's degrees to underrepresented minority students and seventh in bachelor's degrees to Latino students, serves the 13th largest Jewish student population, and enrolls the largest number of students who are Deaf and hard-of-hearing of any U.S. state university. The journal Nature recently named CSUN a Rising Star for scientific research, and the NSF ranks CSUN in the top five nationally among similar institutions for graduates who go on to earn doctorates in the sciences. CSUN is where individuals rise. And through them, so does Greater Los Angeles and beyond.
POSITION SUMMARY:
Reporting to the Fitness Programs Coordinator, develops fitness or wellness routines and programs for groups of participants with a variety of skills and abilities. Routines and programs include a variety of currently popular class formats that fall within the categories of strength training, cardio conditioning, cardio dance, mind and body, aqua, and functional training.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES:
  • Instruct live fitness or mindfulness classes to groups of 3 or more people in formats Instructor is certified/trained in
  • May record fitness or mindfulness videos in formats Instructor is certified/trained in, as requested by Supervisor
  • May conduct one-on-one private lessons in formats Instructor is certified/trained in, as requested by Supervisor
  • Select music that has the correct beats and rhythm based on class type
  • Plan and execute fun and effective exercise routines that are safe and appropriate for participants of all levels
  • Promote and cue proper form and body alignment
  • Provide intensity options and educate participants on how to select movements appropriate for their fitness level
  • Initiate emergency response procedures, as needed
  • Promote SRC programs and events through in-class announcements, as instructed
  • May assist with special programs, services or projects on occasion
  • Perform other related duties as assigned

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
Instructor tier is dependent upon experience and certifications/trainings
Tier I:
  • No teaching experience required
  • Minimum of one (1) credential from the following categories:
    • A degree in Kinesiology or a related field
    • A current nationally recognized Group Exercise Instructor certification (ACE®, AFAA®, NETA®, ACSM®, ISSA® or comparable)
    • A current specialty certification or training from a nationally recognized school or certifying agency (Yoga Works®, Peak Pilates®, Spinning®, Zumba®, TRX®, or comparable)

Tier II:
  • Minimum one (1) year of cumulative experience instructing group exercise classes

AND
  • Minimum of one (1) credential from the following categories:
    • A degree in Kinesiology or a related field
    • A current nationally recognized Group Exercise Instructor certification (ACE®, AFAA®, NETA®, ACSM®, ISSA® or comparable)
    • A current specialty certification or training from a nationally recognized school or certifying agency (Yoga Works®, Peak Pilates®, Spinning®, Zumba®, TRX®, or comparable)

Tier III:
  • Minimum two (2) years of cumulative experience instructing group exercise classes

AND
  • Minimum of one (1) credential from the following categories:
    • A degree in Kinesiology or a related field
    • A current nationally recognized Group Exercise Instructor certification (ACE®, AFAA®, NETA®, ACSM®, ISSA® or comparable)
  • A current specialty certification or training from a nationally recognized school or certifying agency (Yoga Works®, Peak Pilates®, Spinning®, Zumba®, TRX® or comparable)

Tier IV:
  • Minimum four (4) years of cumulative experience instructing group exercise classes

AND
  • Minimum of one (1) credential from the following categories:
    • A degree in Kinesiology or a related field
    • A current nationally recognized Group Exercise Instructor certification (ACE®, AFAA®, NETA®, ACSM®, ISSA® or comparable)
    • A current specialty certification or training from a nationally recognized school or certifying agency (Yoga Works®, Peak Pilates®, Spinning®, Zumba®, TRX® or comparable)

Tier V:
  • Minimum six (6) years of cumulative experience instructing group exercise classes

AND
  • Minimum of one (1) credential from the following categories:
    • A masters level degree in Kinesiology or a related field
  • An advanced/master level certification/specialty training from a nationally recognized school or certifying agency (YogaWorks®, Peak Pilates®, Spinning®, Zumba®, TRX® or comparable)

Other Requirements:
  • Applicants selected for hire in tier I will have a 30-day introductory period. During this time, work is supervised in order for the Instructor to demonstrate competency before being cleared for independent teaching
  • Current American Red Cross certification (adult CPR, AED and first aid)*
  • Maintain all certifications/trainings, that are required for the position, and keep in an active status during employment
  • May be required to attend Student Recreation Center (SRC) and University Student Union (USU) employee orientation and trainings, as well as department specific trainings and meetings

*Applicants that do not currently hold an American Red Cross certification are eligible for employment consideration; however, must become adult CPR, AED and first aid certified prior to instructing classes and no later than 30 days from hire date. Trainings are periodically offered, free of charge, to USU employees. If employees are unable to attend a USU-sponsored training, the employee must obtain certification through American Red Cross at their own expense.
Preferred Qualifications:
Not applicable.
Knowledge, Skills and/or Abilities:
  • Ability to effectively direct and monitor the activities of others
  • Strong verbal and non-verbal communication skills
  • Effective interpersonal skills
  • Ability to maintain a neat appearance
  • Ability to make recommendations and independent decisions
  • Ability to adhere to work rules, follow directions, use time effectively and work productively without close supervision
  • Demonstrated commitment to valuing diversity and contributing to an inclusive working and learning environment

WORKING CONDITIONS AND PHYSICAL ABILITIES:
Work is typically performed indoors. Ability to work weekends, evenings, holidays, finals weeks, and during academic interim and break periods. Ability to adhere to deadlines. Ability to work in shared office space as applicable. Must be flexible, adaptable, and readily able to adjust to changes in work environment. Position requires public contact and/or instruction via video conferencing software. Demonstrated physical abilities include fingering, handling, and reaching with hands and arms; walking, running, skipping, jumping, stooping kneeling crouching, or crawling. Employee must occasionally sit and/or stand for extended periods. Employee must be able to talk and hear. Employee must frequently move and/or lift 10 pounds and occasionally up to 50 pounds. Specific vision abilities include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus.
SUPERVISION EXERCISED:
Not applicable.
PAY, BENEFITS AND WORK SCHEDULE:
This position is employed through University Student Union (USU).
Pay and tier is dependent upon experience and qualifications.
$20.00/$23.00/$28.00/$33.00/$40.00 per hour rate for instruction
$20.00 per hour meeting rate for non-instruction
Part-time, FLSA Non-Exempt; temporary emergency 6-month appointment; may be renewed.
Schedule varies based on department need. Work schedule to be determined by supervisor.
GENERAL INFORMATION
The University Student Union (USU) at California State University, Northridge (CSUN) is proud to operate on the CSUN campus. As part of the campus community, the USU follows California State University (CSU) policy that requires all faculty, staff and students who are accessing campus facilities at any university location to be vaccinated against the virus that causes COVID-19. The policy does allow for medical or religious exemption from the vaccination requirement. The USU will require all of its employees, current or new, to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19, or present a medical or religious exemption and any appropriate back up documentation.
APPLICATION PERIOD
Applications are currently being accepted for the Group Exercise Instructor position on a continuing basis.
HOW TO APPLY
In order to be considered for any position at the University Student Union and Student Recreation Center, all candidates must complete the on-line application process linked here: https://www.csun.edu/careers
BACKGROUND CHECK
A background check (including a criminal records check) must be completed satisfactorily. Failure to satisfactorily complete the background check may affect the status of candidates who apply for the position.
Advertised: Jul 06 2022 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