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Exercise Science Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Plus One, an Optum Company

$15 - $25/hr

A bachelor's degree in exercise science, kinesiology or a related field, or a NCCA-accredited personal training certification. * Current CPR/AED and First Aid certifications. * Industry knowledge in ...

Plus One, an Optum Company

$15 - $22/hr

A bachelor's degree in exercise science, kinesiology or a related field, or a NCCA-accredited personal training certification. * Current CPR/AED and First Aid certifications. * Industry knowledge in ...

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Exercise Science information

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$12

$27

$46

How much do exercise science jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for exercise science in California is $27.98, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.38 and $33.46 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are exercise science professionals?

Exercise science professionals are experts who study how physical activity, exercise, and sports impact the human body. They use their knowledge to help individuals improve their fitness, performance, and overall health. These professionals can work in a variety of settings, including fitness centers, rehabilitation facilities, sports organizations, and research institutions. Their roles may involve developing exercise programs, conducting fitness assessments, and educating people on safe and effective physical activity.

Is exercise science a good degree?

Exercise science is a valuable degree for careers in health, fitness, rehabilitation, and sports performance. It provides knowledge of human anatomy, physiology, and biomechanics, often leading to certifications like personal trainer or strength and conditioning coach, which can enhance job prospects. The degree prepares students for roles in clinical, research, or fitness settings, with some positions requiring advanced education or licensure.

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

To thrive as an Exercise Science professional, you need a solid background in human physiology, kinesiology, and exercise prescription, typically supported by a bachelor's or master's degree in exercise science or a related field. Familiarity with fitness assessment tools, exercise equipment, and industry certifications such as ACSM or NSCA is often required. Strong interpersonal skills, motivational ability, and clear communication are vital for effectively coaching and supporting clients. These competencies are essential for designing safe, effective programs that improve client health and performance while fostering trust and adherence.

What Are the Qualifications to Get a Job in Exercise Science?

The qualifications that you need to start working in an exercise science career include a degree and skills in your chosen specialty. Most exercise science careers require at least a bachelor’s degree in exercise science or a related field, such as physiology, kinesiology, or physical therapy. Most clinical jobs require a master’s degree or doctoral degree, though you may only need a bachelor’s degree and on-the-job training if you work under the supervision of a licensed doctor or physical therapist.

What jobs can you do as an exercise scientist?

Exercise scientists can work as fitness trainers, clinical exercise physiologists, strength and conditioning coaches, sports scientists, or research specialists. They often work in gyms, healthcare settings, sports teams, or research institutions, utilizing skills in exercise testing, program design, and health assessment. Certification and knowledge of human physiology and biomechanics are important for many roles.

What is the highest paying job in sports science?

The highest paying jobs in sports science are often in sports medicine, such as sports medicine physicians or orthopedic surgeons, who earn six-figure salaries. Athletic trainers and exercise physiologists with advanced certifications and work in professional sports or clinical settings can also earn high incomes, especially with specialized skills and experience.

What kind of job do you get with an exercise science degree?

An exercise science degree can lead to careers such as personal trainer, fitness instructor, strength and conditioning coach, physical therapy assistant, or health and wellness coach. These roles often require knowledge of human anatomy, physiology, and fitness assessment, and may benefit from certifications like ACSM or NASM. Job environments include gyms, sports teams, clinics, and rehabilitation centers.

What are some common career paths for professionals with a background in Exercise Science?

Exercise Science professionals can pursue a variety of career paths depending on their interests and additional certifications. Many work as exercise physiologists, strength and conditioning coaches, wellness coordinators, or personal trainers. Others may find opportunities in clinical settings such as cardiac rehabilitation or corporate wellness programs. Additionally, some choose to further their education and specialize in areas like physical therapy, occupational therapy, or sports nutrition. The field offers diverse options for growth and specialization, often involving collaboration with healthcare providers, athletes, or community groups.
More about Exercise Science jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Exercise Science jobs in California? The most popular types of Exercise Science jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Exercise Science jobs in California? For Exercise Science jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Exercise Science jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Exercise Science jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Exercise Science jobs? Cities in California with the most Exercise Science job openings:
Exercise Science jobs near you
Infographic showing various Exercise Science job openings in California as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $58,202 per year, or $28 per hour.
Exercise Specialist, Full Time, 10 Hour, Days

Exercise Specialist, Full Time, 10 Hour, Days

PIH Health

Whittier, CA

Full-time

Posted 27 days ago

PIH Health rating

8.5

Company rating: 8.5 out of 10

Based on 64 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

18th of 872 rated healthcare providers

Job description

PIH Health is a nonprofit, regional healthcare network that serves approximately 3 million residents in the Los Angeles County, Orange County and San Gabriel Valley region. The fully integrated network is comprised of PIH Health Downey Hospital, PIH Health Good Samaritan Hospital, PIH Health Whittier Hospital, 37 outpatient medical office buildings, a multispecialty medical (physician) group, home healthcare services and hospice care, as well as heart, cancer, digestive health, orthopedics, women’s health, urgent care and emergency services. The organization is nationally recognized for excellence in patient care and patient experience, and the College of Healthcare Information Management Executives (CHIME) has identified PIH Health as one of the nation’s top hospital systems for best practices, cutting-edge advancements, quality of care and healthcare technology. For more information, visit PIHHealth.org or follow us on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram

The Exercise Specialist develops, implements and supervises exercise training guidelines and sessions for cardiac rehabilitation patients. Administers fitness assessments on an outpatient population and provides exercise expertise as needed.


Required Skills
  • Training in ECG and arrhythmia recognition.
  • Ability to perform the following test:
    • Graded exercise tests (GXT) using a variety of modes and protocols.
    • GXT’s utilizing metabolic cart for expired gas analysis.
    • Ability to evaluate and interpret expired gas values
    • All standardpulmonary function tests 9full flow loop, lung volumes, etc.).
    • Body composition (skinfold method).
    • A variety of upper and lower extremity flexibility and strength tests.
  • Familiarity with invasive and non-invasive cardiodiagnostic tests and procedures for the purpose of developing individualized exercise guidelines for healthy and high risk individualsand cardiac patients.
  • Written and oral communication skills.
  • Successfully passing safety, cultural sensitivity and blood pathogen classes.

Required Experience

Required:

  • Masters Degree in Exercise Science or related field.
  • Basic Life Support Certification from the American Heart Association         
  • Extensive clinical experience in the management of post operative and post myocardial infarction patients.
  • Administrative experience in cardiac rehabilitation.
  • Thorough knowledge of prevention, intervention and rehabilitationprograms regarding all contributing factors; exercise, diet, stress management and risk factor modification.
  • Demonstrated experience in diagnostic exercise testing.
  • Demonstrate experience in fitness assessments involving expired gas analysis, body composition assessment (skinfolds), pulmonary function, strength, flexibility and risk factor profiles.

Preferred:

  • Certification as an Exercise Specialist or higher from the American College of Sports Medicine or equivalent.
  • ACLS certification.

Beyond the benefits that come with working for the area's leading community healthcare provider – one that also recognizes the need to ensure patient safety and comfort – you'll enjoy an extremely competitive compensation and benefits package.  We are an equal opportunity employer and seek diversity in our workforce.   EOE M/F/D/V

What PIH Health employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

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About PIH Health

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

* PIH Health is a nonprofit health and wellness network serving Los Angeles and Orange Counties. Our integrated system consists of 747 beds at two acute care hospitals and a multi-specialty medical group. * Strong community reputation * 2014, 2015 Favorite Workplace * Innovative, transparent, family-like culture

Industry

Health care and social assistance

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Whittier, CA, US

Year founded

1959

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