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Exercise Science Jobs in Hickory, NC (NOW HIRING)

Master's degree in Exercise Physiology or Exercise Science. * Bachelor's degree plus ACSM-CEP accepted. Experience * Level I: Minimum 1 yrs applicable experience, prefer 2. * Experience working with ...

Master's degree in Exercise Physiology or Exercise Science. * Bachelor's degree plus ACSM-CEP accepted. Experience * Level I: Minimum 1 yrs applicable experience, prefer 2. * Experience working with ...

Studio Manager

Hickory, NC · On-site

$48K - $65K/yr

Experience or education in kinesiology/exercise science is required. * Previous management experience preferred. * Effective time management and clear communication skills. About Us: * We provide ...

General Manager

Hickory, NC · On-site

$50K - $80K/yr

Experience and/or education in kinesiology/exercise science is preferred. * Previous management experience is preferred. * Manage time effectively. * Able to communicate clearly. About InMotion ...

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Exercise Science information

See Hickory, NC salary details

$11

$25

$42

How much do exercise science jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for exercise science in Hickory, NC is $25.39, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.51 and $30.34 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is exercise science?

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 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 science professional?

Exercise science professionals can work as personal trainers, strength and conditioning coaches, physical therapists, sports coaches, fitness instructors, or wellness coordinators. These roles often require knowledge of human anatomy, physiology, and exercise programming, and may involve certifications such as ACSM or NSCA. They typically work in gyms, sports teams, rehabilitation centers, or healthcare settings.

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.
What are the most commonly searched types of Exercise Science jobs in Hickory, NC? The most popular types of Exercise Science jobs in Hickory, NC are:
What are popular job titles related to Exercise Science jobs in Hickory, NC? For Exercise Science jobs in Hickory, NC, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Exercise Science jobs in Hickory, NC look for? The top searched job categories for Exercise Science jobs in Hickory, NC are:
What cities near Hickory, NC are hiring for Exercise Science jobs? Cities near Hickory, NC with the most Exercise Science job openings:
Infographic showing various Exercise Science job openings in Hickory, NC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% As Needed, 53% Full Time, 41% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $52,801 per year, or $25.4 per hour.

Exercise Physiologist

Duke University

Mooresville, NC • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 7 days ago


Duke University rating

6.7

Company rating: 6.7 out of 10

Based on 55 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

486th of 617 rated colleges and universities


Job description

At Duke Health, we're driven by a commitment to compassionate care that changes the lives of patients, their loved ones, and the greater community. No matter where your talents lie, join us and discover how we can advance health together.

Duke Health Lake Norman Hospital

Pursue your passion for caring with Duke Health Lake Norman Hospital in Mooresville, North Carolina. The smallest of the four Duke Health hospitals at 123-beds, it offers a comprehensive range of medical services, including 24-hour emergency care, cardiology, orthopedics, women's services, and surgical specialties.

Exercise PhysiologistEKG and Cardiac Experience Highly PreferredSummary & Work Performed


Develop, coordinate and implement exercise related programs including marketing, research, and internships. Provide exercise-related education for patients and the community. Responsible for all exercise sciencestandards needed to meet regulatory and credentialing requirements.

Level I -

  • Performs all Exercise Specialist duties and diagnostic testing independently as required by work site.
  • Assist with oversight and daily operations of clinical and non- clinical programs.
  • Assist manager with program compliance, benchmarking and performance improvement.
  • Able to teach most/all offered land and water based group exercise for low, medium, and high risk clients. Mentor and train other staff in group exercise. 
  • Required to have clinical knowledge of disease management programming multiple co-morbidities. 
  • Responsible for exercise prescription development for all patient populations 
  • Mentor and lead others in thedepartment (employees and interns)
  • Direct responsibility for all exercise requirements indicated in cardiac rehab state license, AAVCPR national and ACSM guidelines, if required at work site.
  • Recognizes symptom changes/signs of problems and knows theappropriate medical response and processes. Initiates first responder care.
  • Active in program certification process and regulatory agency review according to work site. 
  • Assign and implement lectures, fitness classes, marketing and other materials as needed for each work site.
  • Lead Process Improvement initiatives and benchmark responsibilities for program changes.

Level II -

  • Clinical oversight regarding exercise for all patients at all risk levels. 
  • Able to teach all land and water based group exercise for all risk level patients.
  • Serves as master trainer to other staff in area of group exercise and evaluates staff regarding group exercise.
  • Functions as a Team Leader in supervising and program oversight.
  • Implement processes to ensure compliance with state, national and organizational safety requirements.
  • Takes responsibility for program compliance issues.
  • Collects, process and interpret program data to support both medical coverage and administrative support. 
  • Has knowledge of industry standards.
  • Serve as principle investigator for research projects, which may include supervision of research and publication.
  • Present exercise knowledge at national or regional conferences.
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
  • Stay current with certifications and attend continuing education events.
  • Review current research and update materials as needed
  • A high level of professionalism and knowledge of exercise programming is required.
Level Characteristics

Level I -

  • Performs all Exercise Specialist duties and diagnostic testing independently as required by work site.
  • Assist with oversight and daily operations of clinical and non- clinical programs.
  • Assist manager with program compliance, benchmarking and performance improvement.
  • Able to teach most/all offered land and water based group exercise for low, medium, and high risk clients.
  • Mentor and train other staff in group exercise. 
  • Required to have clinical knowledge of disease management programming multiple co-morbidities. 
  • Responsible for exercise prescription development for all patient populations 
  • Mentor and lead others in thedepartment (employees and interns)
  • Direct responsibility for all exercise requirements indicated in cardiac rehab state license, AAVCPR national and ACSM guidelines, if required at work site.
  • Recognizes symptom changes/signs of problems and knows theappropriate medical response and processes. Initiates first responder care.
  • Active in program certification process and regulatory agency review according to work site. 
  • Assign and implement lectures, fitness classes, marketing and other materials as needed for each work site.
  • Lead Process Improvement initiatives and benchmark responsibilities for program changes.

Level II -

  • Clinical oversight regarding exercise for all patients at all risk levels. 
  • Able to teach all land and water based group exercise for all risk level patients.
  • Serves as master trainer to other staff in area of group exercise and evaluates staff regarding group exercise.
  • Functions as a Team Leader in supervising and program oversight.
  • Implement processes to ensure compliance with state, national and organizational safety requirements.
  • Takes responsibility for program compliance issues.
  • Collects, process and interpret program data to support both medical coverage and administrative support. 
  • Has knowledge of industry standards.
  • Serve as principle investigator for research projects, which may include supervision of research and publication.
  • Present exercise knowledge at national or regional conferences.
Minimum QualificationsEducation
  • Master's degree in Exercise Physiology or Exercise Science.
  • Bachelor's degree plus ACSM-CEP accepted.
Experience
  • Level I: Minimum 1 yrs applicable experience, prefer 2.
    • Experience working with Cardiology patients and EKG highly preferred. 
  • Level II: Minimum 3 yrs applicable experience (leadership experience preferred).
Degrees, Licensures, Certifications
  • Level I: ACLS required (must obtain within 6 months of hire date); ACSM certification as Exercise Physiologist, Health Fitness instructor, Group Exercise Instructor, or Personal Trainer (must obtain within 6 months of hire date).
  • Level II: ACLS required; ACSM certification as Clinical Exercise Physiologist required.

Duke is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to providing employment opportunity without regard to an individual's age, color, disability, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex (including pregnancy and pregnancy related conditions), sexual orientation or military status.


Duke aspires to create a community built on collaboration, innovation, creativity, and belonging. Our collective success depends on the robust exchange of ideas-an exchange that is best when the rich diversity of our perspectives, backgrounds, and experiences flourishes. To achieve this exchange, it is essential that all members of the community feel secure and welcome, that the contributions of all individuals are respected, and that all voices are heard. All members of our community have a responsibility to uphold these values.


Essential Physical Job Functions:

Certain jobs at Duke University and Duke University Health System may include essential job functions that require specific physical and/or mental abilities. Additional information and provision for requests for reasonable accommodation will be provided by each hiring department.



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About Duke University

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Duke is regarded as one of America's leading research universities. Located in Durham, North Carolina, Duke is positioned in the heart of the Research Triangle, which is ranked annually as one of the best places in the country to work and live. Duke has more than 15,000 students who study and conduct research in its 10 undergraduate, graduate, and professional schools. With about 40,000 employees, Duke is the third largest private employer in North Carolina, and it now has international programs in more than 150 countries.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools and hospitals

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Durham, NC, US