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Exercise Trainer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

$17 - $22/hr

... training equipment within the facility. * Educate participants on clinically proven health and ... A bachelor's degree in exercise science, kinesiology or a related field, or a NCCA-accredited ...

Exercise Specialist

San Jose, CA ยท On-site

$17 - $25/hr

... training equipment within the facility. * Educate participants on clinically proven health and ... A bachelor's degree in exercise science, kinesiology or a related field, or a NCCA-accredited ...

Showing results 41-60

Exercise Trainer information

See California salary details

$10

$28

$51

How much do exercise trainer jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for exercise trainer in California is $28.95, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.23 and $31.06 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Exercise Trainer vs Personal Trainer?

AspectExercise TrainerPersonal Trainer
CertificationsCPR/AED, fitness certifications (e.g., ACE, NASM)CPR/AED, fitness certifications (e.g., ACE, NASM)
Work EnvironmentGyms, fitness centers, community centersGyms, private studios, clients' homes
Employer & Industry UsageFitness facilities, gyms, health clubsPersonal training studios, independent practice
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Exercise Trainers and Personal Trainers often share similar certifications and work environments, focusing on helping clients improve fitness. However, Exercise Trainers typically work in gyms or community settings with group or individual sessions, while Personal Trainers often provide personalized, one-on-one coaching, sometimes independently. Both roles require similar credentials and are frequently compared by those seeking fitness guidance.

Do exercise trainers make money?

Exercise trainers typically earn income through client sessions, group classes, or facility employment, with salaries varying based on experience, location, and certifications. Many trainers supplement income by offering personal training packages or online coaching. Earnings can range from hourly wages to commissions or percentages of session fees.

How much money can an exercise trainer make?

Exercise trainers' earnings vary based on experience, location, certifications, and whether they work independently or for a facility. On average, they earn between $30,000 and $70,000 annually, with some experienced trainers or those in high-demand areas earning more. Many trainers supplement income through private sessions or specialized training.

What cities in California are hiring for Exercise Trainer jobs?

Cities in California with the most Exercise Trainer job openings:

Infographic showing various Exercise Trainer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 70% Full Time, 23% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $60,215 per year, or $28.9 per hour.

Exercise Specialist

Newport Beach, CA โ€ข On-site

$17 - $25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 17 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Conduct ongoing fitness consultations, including movement screens, needs analyses, and goal setting, to recommend appropriate fitness programming and wellness services.

  • Develop comprehensive progressive fitness programs to support and motivate participants and ensure a positive experience.

  • Monitor, engage, and instruct participants on the safe and effective use of fitness equipment within the facility.


Job description

Job Overview:

We are looking for an energetic and enthusiastic Exercise Specialist who is passionate about supporting healthy lifestyle habits to work at a high-profile company's fitness center located in Newport Beach, CA.

What you will do:

  • Conduct ongoing fitness consultations for participants, including movement screens, needs analyses and goal setting, in order to recommend appropriate fitness programming and complementary wellness services.
  • Develop comprehensive progressive fitness programming to support and motivate participants and ensure a positive overall experience.
  • Monitor, engage and instruct participants in the fitness center on the safe and effective use of cardiovascular, flexibility and strength training equipment within the facility.
  • Educate participants on clinically proven health and fitness information, available fitness and engagement programming and complementary wellness services.
  • Complete internal development courses through a learning management platform.
  • Maintain positive customer and client experience by providing the highest quality of service.

What we are looking for:

  • 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 exercise testing (assessments) and exercise prescription (program design), and ability to operate various fitness tools and equipment.
  • Ability to network, engage and interact with all clients, guests and members.
  • Competence with Microsoft Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook).

About Us:

Plus One, part of the Optum Workplace Well-being portfolio of services, provides fitness and well-being services to clients across a broad range of industries, driving employee engagement in health and wellness programs. These services include fitness, nutrition, ergonomics, wellness coaching and health promotion. Our team members believe that the most effective way to help people adopt a healthier lifestyle is through personal connections infused with hospitality, empathy and a lot of fun.

Perks of working at Plus One, an Optum company*:

Health and financial:

  • Medical plan choices with Health Reimbursement Account (HRA) and Health Savings Account (HSA) options
  • Dental and Vision coverage plans
  • 401(k) Retirement & Savings Plan
  • Life Insurance (team member, spouse and dependents)
  • Short and Long Term Disability Plans
  • Accident & Critical Illness Insurance
  • Transportation and Parking Plans
  • Paid parental leave

Well-being:

  • Paid time off
  • Wellness rewards program
  • Free memberships to various fitness facilities and wellness subscriptions
  • 24/7 health and wellness support through the Employee Assistance program
  • Entertainment and consumer discounts
  • Inclusion and Belonging Council

Growth and development:

  • Free professional development courses through internal learning management systems
  • Discounted certifications through industry leading agencies
  • Free CPR/AED certifications
  • Free continuing education courses and credits
  • Employee Referral Reward program

*Please note, some of the benefits listed above are only available to team members who work full time hours.

Equal opportunity statement

Plus One, an Optum company, is committed to a policy of non-discrimination and equal employment opportunity. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, disability or protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

Plus One is a drug-free workplace. Candidates are required to pass a drug test before beginning employment.

Pay is based on several factors including, but not limited to, local labor markets, education, work experience, certifications, geographic differentials, and other business and organizational needs. In addition to the hourly rate, Plus One offers a comprehensive benefits package (all benefits are subject to eligibility requirements), which includes health insurance, life and disability benefits, 401(k) plan, and paid time off. The hourly rate for this position ranges from $17 to $25. Plus One, an Optum Company, adheres to all federal, state, and local minimum wage laws as applicable.

Employment Type: Full time