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Independent Contractor Exercise Science Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Exercise Physiologist

Coupeville, WA · On-site

$23.98 - $36.50/hr

Training and Experience A minimum of two years' experience in exercise science with specialized ... Works independently and is able to identify and report EKG rhythm changes to lead Registered Nurse.

EXERCISE PHYSIOLOGIST

Wenatchee, WA · On-site

$27.96 - $43.72/hr

Independent clinical decision making. * Develop and progress exercise treatment plans. * Clear ... S. in Clinical Physiology, Kinesiology, Exercise Science, or related Health Science field. * Must ...

EXERCISE PHYSIOLOGIST

Wenatchee, WA · On-site

$27.96 - $43.72/hr

Independent clinical decision making. * Develop and progress exercise treatment plans. * Clear ... S. in Clinical Physiology, Kinesiology, Exercise Science, or related Health Science field. * Must ...

Independent clinical decision making. * Develop and progress exercise treatment plans. * Clear ... S. in Clinical Physiology, Kinesiology, Exercise Science, or related Health Science field. * Must ...

... Science, Kinesiology, Physiology, or a related field. * ACSM Certified Clinical Exercise Physiologist (ACSM-CEP) certification preferred. Equivalent hands-on experience independently conducting ...

Exercise Planner

Jacksonville, NC · On-site

$47K - $65K/yr

Job Title Exercise Planner Location Jacksonville, NC 28540 US (Primary) Category Intelligence Job ... Prime or independent contractor must have conducted GOV/ local municipality coordination for at ...

Independent clinical decision making. * Develop and progress exercise treatment plans. * Clear ... S. in Clinical Physiology, Kinesiology, Exercise Science, or related Health Science field. * Must ...

... Science, Kinesiology, Physiology, or a related field. * ACSM Certified Clinical Exercise Physiologist (ACSM-CEP) certification preferred. Equivalent hands-on experience independently conducting ...

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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 Jul 12, 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:
Infographic showing various Independent Contractor Exercise Science job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 71% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 21% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $58,974 per year, or $28.4 per hour.
Exercise Physiologist

Exercise Physiologist

WhidbeyHealth

Coupeville, WA • On-site

$23.98 - $36.50/hr

Per diem

Posted 18 days ago


Job description

JOB SUMMARY
The Exercise Physiologist designs, implements, modifies, supervises, & terminates the physical exercise program of all patients in Life Center. This may include but is not limited to Cardiac Wellness, Pulmonary Wellness, Post-Partum Exercise, and other community outreach programs as assigned. Serves as a primary consult for ASCM standards for exercise prescription. Clerical and cleaning responsibilities as assigned.
PRINCIPLE FUNCTIONS includes the following, other duties may be assigned:
  • Performance:
  • Participates in initial patient assessment to develop an exercise plan of care with other team members.
  • Prepare and adjust individual exercise prescription in accordance with the patient's progress, orthopedic obstacles, and physician recommendation, modifies as needed. Clinical intervention consistently reflects understanding of underlying pathophysiology.
  • Performs exercise with participant, demonstrating correct body mechanics. Considers the learning needs of patients in initial and ongoing instruction and accommodates accordingly. Demonstrates proper use of equipment to prevent injury and encourage adherence to exercise prescription.
  • Cardio Monitoring:
  • Calculate target heart rate based upon ACSM guidelines and medications.
  • Monitor participant's heart rate and BP and report any inappropriate response to exercise. Terminate exercise as needed.
  • Assist with emergency care according to ACLS guidelines.
  • Patient Education:
  • Performs exercise with participant, demonstrating correct body mechanics. Considers the learning needs of patients in initial and ongoing instruction and accommodates accordingly.
  • Demonstrates proper use of equipment to prevent injury and encourage adherence to exercise prescription.
  • Documentation:
  • Documentation is clear & concise and completed in a timely manner.
  • Actively participates in staff huddles to review participants' progress, modify plans of care or adjust staff work assignments for the day.
  • Produces outcome-based data and applies to daily practice to improve patient care experience.
  • Equipment:
  • Ensures that exercise classes can begin on time by having equipment & monitors set-up. Orders and schedules repair of equipment as needed.
  • Maintains routine cleaning schedule and supplies necessary. Documents equipment cleaning on the cleaning log.

JOB KNOWLEDGE & QUALIFICATIONS
Education
BS Exercise Physiology.
Masters Exercise Physiology preferred.
Training and Experience
A minimum of two years' experience in exercise science with specialized education or certification in cardiovascular clinical area. Recent experience in cardiopulmonary rehabilitation and work with other high-risk populations such as but not limited to morbid obesity, diabetes, hypertension, dyslipidemia, and addiction. Fundamentals of clinical practice in exercise science relative to the primary and secondary prevention of heart and lung disease. Ability to communicate effectively, establish report, and educate patients and staff how to recognize own deviation from usual pattern of wellness and make sustainable lifestyle/behavior changes. Works independently and is able to identify and report EKG rhythm changes to lead Registered Nurse.
Certificates, Licenses, Registrations
BLS and ACLS certification required.
Benefit Information and Wage Transparency:WhidbeyHealth Employees who work a 0.5 FTE or higher are categorized as, "benefit eligible".Click here for benefit information.
Wage Range: $27.974 - $51.085