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Exercise Science Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

UWHealth

Exercise Physiologist - PRN

Rockford, IL

Bachelor's Degree in Exercise Science/Physiology/Kinesiology or Health Education with an emphasis in Exercise Science. Required Work Experience Licenses & Certifications * BLS certification. Required

UW Health

Exercise Physiologist - PRN

Rockford, IL · On-site

$24.24 - $35.14/hr

Bachelor's Degree in Exercise Science/Physiology/Kinesiology or Health Education with an emphasis in Exercise Science. Required Work Experience Licenses & Certifications * BLS certification. Required

UWHealth

Exercise Physiologist - PRN

Rockford, IL · On-site

Bachelor's Degree in Exercise Science/Physiology/Kinesiology or Health Education with an emphasis in Exercise Science. Required Work Experience * No experience Required Licenses & Certifications

UW Health

Exercise Physiologist - PRN

Rockford, IL · On-site

$24.24 - $35.14/hr

Bachelor's Degree in Exercise Science/Physiology/Kinesiology or Health Education with an emphasis in Exercise Science. Required Work Experience * No experience Required Licenses & Certifications

UWHealth

Exercise Specialist

Rockford, IL · On-site

Bachelor's Degree in Exercise Science, Physiology, Kinesiology, Rehabilitation Science or Health Education with an emphasis in Exercise Science. Required Work Experience Licenses & Certifications

UWHealth

Exercise Specialist

Rockford, IL · On-site

Bachelor's Degree in Exercise Science, Physiology, Kinesiology, Rehabilitation Science or Health Education with an emphasis in Exercise Science. Required Work Experience Licenses & Certifications

UW Health

Exercise Specialist

Rockford, IL · On-site

$20.97 - $29.36/hr

Bachelor's Degree in Exercise Science, Physiology, Kinesiology, Rehabilitation Science or Health Education with an emphasis in Exercise Science. Required Work Experience Licenses & Certifications

UW Health

Exercise Specialist

Rockford, IL · On-site

$20.97 - $29.36/hr

Bachelor's Degree in Exercise Science, Physiology, Kinesiology, Rehabilitation Science or Health Education with an emphasis in Exercise Science. Required Work Experience Licenses & Certifications

UnityPoint Health

Exercise Specialist

Rock Island, IL · On-site

Bachelor's degree in exercise science, Human performance, or equivalent. Master's degree preferred. Experience : Previous experience in rehab setting, internship, or clinical setting preferred.

UnityPoint Health

Exercise Specialist

Rock Island, IL · On-site

$22.79 - $34.19/hr

Bachelor's degree in exercise science, Human performance, or equivalent. Master's degree preferred. Experience : Previous experience in rehab setting, internship, or clinical setting preferred.

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All JobsExercise Science JobsExercise Science Jobs in Illinois

Exercise Science information

See Illinois salary details

$12

$27

$46

How much do exercise science jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for exercise science in Illinois is $27.48, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.05 and $32.84 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 Illinois? The most popular types of Exercise Science jobs in Illinois are:
What are popular job titles related to Exercise Science jobs in Illinois? For Exercise Science jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Exercise Science jobs in Illinois look for? The top searched job categories for Exercise Science jobs in Illinois are:
What cities in Illinois are hiring for Exercise Science jobs? Cities in Illinois with the most Exercise Science job openings:
Exercise Science jobs near you
Infographic showing various Exercise Science job openings in Illinois as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 56% Full Time, and 44% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $57,148 per year, or $27.5 per hour.
Part-Time Health & Exercise Science Instructor

Part-Time Health & Exercise Science Instructor

Southwestern Illinois College

Belleville, IL • On-site

Part-time

Medical, Retirement

Posted 3 days ago

Southwestern Illinois College rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

109th of 537 rated colleges and universities

Job description

ANNOUNCEMENT
Southwestern Illinois College is accepting applications for part-time instructors for the Health & Exercise Science (HES) department. Part-time instructors are hired on an as-needed basis. Your application will be placed in a pool for review as part-time teaching assignments become available.
POSITION DESCRIPTION
Part-time/adjunct faculty in HES are responsible for teaching the objectives for each course assigned, the assessment of student learning, and reporting of student progress as required by the college.
QUALIFICATIONS
Qualifications depend on the course taught. Please see below for minimum qualifications for the various courses taught in the Health and Exercise Science department.
HES 151 Personal Health and Wellness: Master's Degree in Health Science or Physical Education with concentration in Exercise Science or Exercise Physiology.
HES 152 First Aid - Medical Self Help: Master's degree in Health Science, Health Education, Physical Education, or Nursing and Red Cross First Aid/CPR/AED Instructor Certification.
HES 154 Nutrition, Exercise, and Weight: Master's degree in Physical Education or Nutrition Management with coursework in nutrition and exercise prescription.
HES 155 Physical Fitness and Wellness: Master's Degree in Physical Education or Exercise Science with an emphasis in fitness.
HES 156 Individual Exercise and Health: Master's Degree in Physical Education or Exercise Science with an emphasis in fitness.
HES 158 Consumer Health: Master's Degree in Health Science or Physical Education with concentration in Exercise Science or Exercise Physiology.
HES 170 Introduction to Exercise Science: Master's Degree in Physical Education with concentration in PE Pedagogy, Exercise Science or Sports Management.
STARTING PAY AND HOURS
Salary varies based on educational level and number of units taught. Starting rates for the current Academic Year can be viewed on SWIC's Employment page .
BENEFITS & PERKS
Benefit availability and eligibility may vary from the summary listed below. Please visit www.swic.edu for more information.
  • Retirement savings plan through State Universities Retirement System of Illinois and voluntary 403(b) and 457(b) savings plan
  • Eligibility for medical coverage as outline in the Affordable Care Act
  • Employee Assistance Program, employee discounts, gym access, additional voluntary benefits and more!
WORK LOCATION
Health & Exercise Science department courses are offered at the SWIC Belleville, Sam Wolf Granite City and Red Bud Campuses.
APPLICATION DEADLINE
Applications will be reviewed as assignments become available.
APPLICATION PROCEDURE
Required application materials, such as resume, cover letter and references, should be attached to your application. Other required application materials i.e., unofficial transcripts, etc., should be attached after your application has been submitted (official college transcripts must be provided at time of hire). Go to your My Job Applications page from the careers home page of your account.
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