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Exercise Science Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

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 ...

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Exercise Science information

See California salary details

$12

$27

$46

How much do exercise science jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 17, 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.

What are careers in exercise science?

Careers in exercise science include roles such as exercise physiologists, sports scientists, fitness trainers, and rehabilitation specialists. These professionals analyze physical activity, develop training programs, and often work in gyms, clinics, or research settings, typically requiring knowledge of anatomy, physiology, and certification in relevant fields.

Is exercise science a good degree?

Exercise science is a valuable degree for careers in health, fitness, and rehabilitation, providing knowledge of human physiology, biomechanics, and nutrition. Graduates often pursue certifications like ACSM or NSCA and work in settings such as gyms, clinics, or research labs. The degree offers practical skills for promoting physical activity and wellness.

What can I do with a PE degree?

A degree in Exercise Science can lead to careers such as personal trainer, fitness instructor, physical therapy assistant, sports coach, or strength and conditioning specialist. These roles often require knowledge of anatomy, physiology, and fitness assessment, and may require certifications like CPR or personal trainer credentials.

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 in roles such as fitness trainers, clinical exercise physiologists, sports performance specialists, and research scientists. They often work in gyms, hospitals, sports teams, or research institutions, utilizing skills in exercise testing, program design, and health assessment. Certification and knowledge of human physiology and biomechanics are typically required for these positions.

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 July 2026, with employment types broken down into 6% Full Time, and 94% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $58,202 per year, or $28 per hour.
Group Exercise Instructor - Oceanside

Group Exercise Instructor - Oceanside

YMCA of San Diego County

Oceanside, CA • On-site

$22.64 - $27.17/hr

Part-time

Posted 8 days ago

Job description

The Group Exercise Instructor is responsible for building positive relationships among members, participants, volunteers, and staff by actively greeting and providing excellent customer service, guidance, and leadership. The Instructor creates and delivers Group Exercise classes in a safe, effective, and timely manner, appropriate to the level of the participants in class, to enhance physical, mental, and spiritual health.

For information on Y Employee Perks, click on this link: Employee Benefits | YMCA of San Diego County (ymcasd.org)

Schedule

  • Location: Joe and Mary Mottino Family YMCA
  • Mornings (8:00am - 12:00pm) and/or evenings (4:00pm - 7:00pm), based on class schedule
  • Ability to teach a variety of group exercise formats preferred, including experience instructing water exercise classes 
  • Also looking for a group exercise instructor who is bilingual Spanish/English

  • Create a positive member experience through welcoming participants and ensuring they are actively engaged in their workout
  • Provide a safe workout routine by demonstrating proper form and technique, appropriate modifications, and cueing
  • Maintain a clean and safe workout atmosphere by properly setting up and breaking down within the allotted class time 
  • Build community through forming positive relationships through learning names, and helping members reach their Health & Wellness Goals 
  • Adhere to the core functions of the YMCA and exemplify Y Group Exercise Class Guidelines
  • Ability to communicate verbally to large and small groups of members 
  • Physical ability to lead and participate in exercise/fitness activities 
  • Visual and auditory ability to respond to critical situations and physical ability to act swiftly in an emergency  
  • Other duties as assigned  

  • NASM, ACE, ISSA, NCCA accredited certification, or 4 year degree/1 year Exercise Science certification 
  • 1+ year’s experience leading Group Exercise classes preferred 
  • All job required trainings within 90 days from date of hire 
  • Strong communication skills and the capability to work with members of all fitness levels and abilities 
  • Knowledge of fitness principles and practical applications required 
  • Licensing, state law and our government funders require that staff within YMCA of San Diego County be fingerprinted, prior to reporting to work, and include subsequent arrest notifications 
  • CPR/AED, and First Aid Certification, must include Adult and Child/Infant, obtained within 30 days of hire and must be from one of the following certifying organizations: 
    • American Red Cross 
    • American Heart Association 
    • American Safety & Health Institute 

YMCA will consider qualified applicants with a criminal history pursuant to the San Diego County Fair Chance Ordinance and the California Fair Chance Act. You do not need to disclose your criminal history or participate in a background check until a conditional job offer is made to you. After making a conditional offer and running a background check, if the YMCA is concerned about conviction that is directly related to the job, you will be given the opportunity to explain the circumstances surrounding the conviction, provide mitigating evidence, or challenge the accuracy of the background report. Find out more about the Fair Chance Ordinance by visiting the San Diego County Office of Labor Standards and Enforcement.


USD $22.64 - USD $27.17 /Hr.

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