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Independent Contractor Exercise Science Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Exercise Science Professional

Tucson, AZ · On-site

$16 - $23/hr

Bachelor's degree in exercise science, kinesiology, or a related field * Passion for health and ... Ability to work independently and as part of a team * Willingness to learn and grow in a fast-paced ...

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Independent Contractor Exercise Science information

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$12

$28

$47

How much do independent contractor exercise science jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for independent contractor exercise science in the United States is $28.35, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.67 and $33.89 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Independent Contractor Exercise Science professionals?

Independent Contractor Exercise Science professionals are experts in the field of exercise science who work on a self-employed basis rather than as traditional employees. They may provide services such as fitness assessments, personal training, wellness coaching, or exercise program development for individuals, organizations, or sports teams. As independent contractors, they handle their own business operations, set their schedules, and often work with multiple clients. This role requires a strong background in exercise science, excellent communication skills, and the ability to manage client relationships and administrative tasks.

How does an Independent Contractor in Exercise Science typically collaborate with clients and other professionals?

As an Independent Contractor in Exercise Science, you will often work directly with clients to assess their fitness levels, develop personalized exercise programs, and track progress. Collaboration is key; you may partner with healthcare providers, physical therapists, or nutritionists to ensure comprehensive care for your clients. Communication and networking skills are important, as you’ll coordinate schedules, share client updates, and sometimes work within multidisciplinary teams to achieve the best outcomes. This role offers flexibility, but requires proactive relationship-building and ongoing client management.

What is the highest paying job in exercise science?

In exercise science, the highest paying roles typically include sports medicine physicians, exercise physiologists with advanced certifications, and clinical exercise specialists working in healthcare settings. These positions often require advanced degrees, specialized certifications, and extensive experience, and they can offer salaries exceeding $70,000 annually depending on location and employer.

What can I do with an exercise and sports science degree?

An exercise and sports science degree prepares individuals for roles such as exercise physiologists, personal trainers, strength and conditioning coaches, sports coaches, and fitness instructors. These positions often require knowledge of human anatomy, physiology, and fitness assessment, and may involve working in gyms, sports teams, clinics, or rehabilitation centers.

What jobs can you do as an exercise scientist?

Exercise scientists can work in roles such as fitness trainers, clinical exercise specialists, sports performance coaches, rehabilitation specialists, and research assistants. They often work in gyms, hospitals, sports teams, or research settings, utilizing skills in exercise testing, program design, and health assessment, often requiring certifications like ACSM or NSCA. These positions involve developing and implementing exercise programs to improve health, performance, or recovery.

What is the difference between Independent Contractor Exercise Science vs Personal Trainer?

AspectIndependent Contractor Exercise SciencePersonal Trainer
CredentialsCertifications like ACSM, NSCA, NASM; relevant degreesCertifications like ACE, NASM, ISSA; fitness-focused certifications
Work EnvironmentContract-based, often in gyms, clinics, or clients' homesGyms, fitness centers, private sessions
Employer/Industry UsageSelf-employed or contracted with health/fitness organizationsTypically employed or freelance in fitness settings

While both roles require fitness certifications and involve client interaction, Independent Contractor Exercise Science professionals often work on a contract basis providing specialized health assessments or programs, whereas Personal Trainers focus on fitness coaching and workout planning. The key difference lies in scope and services offered, with exercise scientists emphasizing health and performance testing, and personal trainers focusing on fitness goals.

What jobs can I get with just an exercise science degree?

An exercise science degree can qualify you for roles such as personal trainer, fitness instructor, strength and conditioning coach, or wellness coach. These positions often require knowledge of anatomy, physiology, and fitness assessment, and may benefit from certifications like NASM or ACE. Job environments include gyms, sports teams, corporate wellness programs, and rehabilitation centers.

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

To thrive as an Independent Contractor in Exercise Science, you need a solid background in kinesiology, exercise physiology, and program design, typically supported by a degree in exercise science or a related field. Familiarity with fitness assessment tools, client management software, and certifications like NSCA, ACSM, or NASM is commonly required. Strong communication, self-motivation, and time management skills help you build client relationships and manage a flexible workload. These skills and qualifications are crucial for delivering effective, evidence-based training while maintaining a successful independent practice.
More about Independent Contractor Exercise Science jobs
What cities are hiring for Independent Contractor Exercise Science jobs? Cities with the most Independent Contractor Exercise Science job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Exercise Science jobs? The most popular types of Exercise Science jobs are:
What states have the most Independent Contractor Exercise Science jobs? States with the most job openings for Independent Contractor Exercise Science jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Independent Contractor Exercise Science jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Independent Contractor Exercise Science jobs are:
Independent Contractor Exercise Science jobs near you
Infographic showing various Independent Contractor Exercise Science job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 74% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 18% Contract. Highlights an 90% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $58,974 per year, or $28.4 per hour.

Program Developer - BS in Health and Exercise

Northeast College of Health Sciences

Seneca Falls, NY • On-site

$50/hr

Full-time

Posted 9 days ago

Job description

POSITION: Program Developer – Bachelor of Science in Health and Exercise Science
DEPARTMENT: Academic Affairs

DIVISION: Academic Affairs

STATUS: Independent Contractor; temporary; exempt

Note: As a member of our exempt work force there could be occasions when a commitment beyond

the normal workweek may be required.

Hourly Pay: $50/hour

General Description:

The Program Developer will lead the planning and development of the proposed Bachelor of Science in Health and Exercise Science degree at Northeast College of Health Sciences. This Independent Contractor position (anticipated duration of 12 months) requires expertise in higher education program development, curriculum design, and compliance with state approval processes. The successful candidate will collaborate with subject matter experts, faculty, and administrators to ensure the program meets institutional goals, New York State requirements, and industry standards. The Program Developer will also be directly accountable for adhering to the program development timeline established by the College.

Specific Administrative Duties and Responsibilities:

  • Program Development
    • In collaboration with the provost, oversee the development of the proposed Bachelor of Science in Health and Exercise Science curriculum.
    • Identify, recruit, and coordinate subject matter experts to assist in developing course content where needed.
    • Ensure curriculum alignment with institutional learning outcomes, accreditation expectations, transfer eligibility tracks, and workforce needs.
    • Completion of new program packet for Curriculum Committee including all syllabi and required contents for internal review and approval.
  • Policy and Procedure Development
    • Collaborate with college administration to establish policies and procedures related to program admission, progression, transfer/dual enrollment, and completion.
    • Contribute to the development of student support structures, academic advising models, and program assessment processes.
  • Facilities and Equipment Assessment
    • Evaluate the existing athletic center and identify additional equipment needed to support instruction and experiential learning required within the curriculum.
    • Review current laboratory space and recommend modifications or expansions necessary for the program.
    • Determine required laboratory supplies to support foundational sciences, exercise physiology, biomechanics, and related coursework.
  • Regulatory and Accreditation Preparation
    • Work with administration to prepare and submit the New York State Education Department (NYSED) application for new program approval.
    • Ensure all aspects of the program and NYS proposal meet compliance, accreditation, and quality assurance standards.
    • Provide prompt responses to NYSED inquiries related to application and approval process.
  • Collaboration and Reporting
    • Maintain close communication with administration throughout the program development process.
    • Provide regular updates on progress and anticipated needs to meet the program development timeline.
    • Carry out other duties as assigned in support of the program’s successful design and approval.

Methods of Accountability:

  • Meeting established program development and project timeline milestones.
  • Adhering to the approved budget for program development.
  • Fulfilling the responsibilities outlined in the job description, including active collaboration with administration, faculty, and subject matter experts to ensure all aspects of program development are completed as assigned.

Education, Training and Experience:

  • Master’s degree in Exercise Science, Kinesiology, Health Sciences, or a closely related field required; Doctorate preferred.
  • Professional certifications in related disciplines, such as ACSM Certified Exercise Physiologist (EP-C) or NSCA Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS) preferred.
  • Demonstrated experience in higher education program development, curriculum design, and accreditation processes.
  • Familiarity with New York State Education Department program approval processes.
  • Knowledge of exercise science curriculum, laboratory requirements, and industry standards.
  • Experience working collaboratively with faculty, administrators, and regulatory agencies.
  • Strong written, verbal, and organizational skills.

Northeast College of Health Sciences is committed to creating a culture of diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging with our college campus community. In support of our institutional values, we acknowledge each person’s unique experience, perspective, and ability as contributions that both enrich our community and enhance the professions and people we serve. As such, the College is dedicated to providing equitable opportunities to all future and current employees, including those belonging to groups that have been historically underrepresented in higher education.

If you are interested in applying for this position; please submit a cover letter of interest, resume and contact information for three professional references to: the Office of Human Resources, 2360 State Route 89, Seneca Falls, NY 13148, or e-mail your response to: humanresources@northeastcollege.edu

* Employment is subject to the favorable result of a background investigation and where applicable, confirmation of appropriate degrees and credentialing.

Northeast College of Health Sciences is an Equal Opportunity employer and does not discriminate against students or employees on the basis of age, race, color, creed, gender, sexual orientation, or handicapping conditions (or any other protected status) in its educational programs, financial aid, activities, admissions and employment practices.