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Masters Exercise Science Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

CorDx is at the cutting edge of technology, artificial intelligence, and data science with the goal ... An MBA is preferred. * Over 3 years of sales experience in the IVD industry. * Ability to travel up ...

CorDx is at the cutting edge of technology, artificial intelligence, and data science with the goal ... An MBA is preferred. * Over 3 years of sales experience in the IVD industry. * Ability to travel up ...

CorDx is at the cutting edge of technology, artificial intelligence, and data science with the goal ... An MBA is preferred. * Over 3 years of sales experience in the IVD industry. * Ability to travel up ...

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Masters Exercise Science information

See California salary details

$5

$26

$57

How much do masters exercise science jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for masters exercise science in California is $26.01, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.23 and $30.82 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How much money can you make with a master's in exercise science?

A master's in exercise science can lead to roles such as exercise physiologist or fitness director, with median salaries typically ranging from $45,000 to $65,000 annually. Salaries vary based on experience, location, certifications, and the specific work environment, such as clinical settings or fitness facilities.

What types of career paths can someone with a Master's in Exercise Science pursue, and how do these roles typically differ in daily responsibilities?

With a Master's in Exercise Science, professionals can pursue diverse career paths such as clinical exercise physiologist, strength and conditioning coach, wellness program manager, or research scientist. Daily responsibilities vary by role; for example, clinical exercise physiologists often work in healthcare settings conducting patient assessments and developing rehabilitation plans, while strength and conditioning coaches design and implement training programs for athletes. Wellness program managers focus on creating initiatives to improve employee health in corporate settings, and research scientists conduct studies to advance the field. Collaboration with healthcare professionals, athletes, or corporate teams is common, and roles may offer opportunities for advancement into leadership or specialized research positions.

What kind of job can I get with a master's in exercise science?

A master's in exercise science qualifies individuals for roles such as exercise physiologist, strength and conditioning coach, rehabilitation specialist, or fitness director. These positions often involve working in clinical, sports, or fitness settings and may require certifications like ACSM or NSCA. The degree provides a foundation for careers focused on health, performance, and injury prevention.

What Is a Master's Degree In Exercise Science?

A master’s degree in exercise science is the in-depth study of applied human physiology and its relationship with sports, fitness, nutrition, health, and overall wellness. These programs usually last about two year. Within your Master of Science (MS) degree, you not only hone your knowledge of athletic training but you also specialize in an area that interests you, such as strength and conditioning, sports nutrition, performance enhancement, psychobiology of exercise, sports psychology, and wellness and fitness. Each university offers a list of program concentrations. When you complete your degree, you may undertake leadership responsibilities within your workplace.

Is getting a master's in exercise science worth it?

A master's in exercise science prepares individuals for careers such as exercise physiologists, strength and conditioning coaches, and rehabilitation specialists, often requiring knowledge of anatomy, physiology, and fitness assessment tools. It can improve job prospects and earning potential, especially when combined with certifications like ACSM or NSCA. However, the value depends on career goals and the local job market.

What is the difference between Masters Exercise Science vs Certified Personal Trainer?

AspectMasters Exercise ScienceCertified Personal Trainer
Required CredentialsMaster's degree in Exercise Science or related fieldCertification from organizations like NASM, ACE, or ACSM
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, universities, clinical settings, fitness facilitiesGyms, fitness centers, private training sessions
Employer & Industry UsageAcademic institutions, healthcare, sports organizationsFitness industry, personal training businesses
Common Search & ComparisonEducational background, career options, advanced rolesTraining methods, certification requirements, client management

Masters Exercise Science provides a comprehensive academic background suitable for research, clinical, and advanced fitness roles, while Certified Personal Trainers focus on client fitness instruction and certification. Both roles are integral to the fitness industry but serve different career paths and responsibilities.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a professional with a Master's in Exercise Science, and why are they important?

To thrive with a Master's in Exercise Science, you need advanced knowledge in exercise physiology, biomechanics, and program design, typically supported by a graduate degree in exercise science or kinesiology. Proficiency with assessment tools like VO2 max testers, body composition analyzers, and certifications such as ACSM or NSCA is often required. Strong interpersonal skills, motivational abilities, and clear communication help professionals effectively coach clients and collaborate with healthcare teams. These skills and qualifications are crucial for delivering evidence-based interventions that enhance health, performance, and injury prevention.

What is the highest paying job in exercise science?

The highest paying jobs in exercise science typically include sports medicine physicians, exercise physiologists working in clinical settings, and performance directors in professional sports organizations. These roles often require advanced certifications, extensive experience, and specialized skills, with salaries exceeding $70,000 to over $150,000 annually depending on the position and location.

What can you do with a master's degree in exercise science?

A master's degree in exercise science opens doors to a variety of careers in health, wellness, sports, and research. Graduates can work as exercise physiologists, strength and conditioning coaches, wellness coordinators, or continue into doctoral studies and academia. Many also find roles in rehabilitation, corporate wellness, or fitness management. The degree provides advanced knowledge in human physiology, biomechanics, and nutrition, making graduates valuable in both clinical and non-clinical settings.
What are popular job titles related to Masters Exercise Science jobs in California? For Masters Exercise Science jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Masters Exercise Science jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Masters Exercise Science jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Masters Exercise Science jobs? Cities in California with the most Masters Exercise Science job openings:
Infographic showing various Masters Exercise Science job openings in California as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 2% As Needed, 34% Full Time, 61% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,093 per year, or $26 per hour.
Exercise Specialist, Full Time, 10 Hour, Days

Exercise Specialist, Full Time, 10 Hour, Days

PIH Health

Whittier, CA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 9 days ago


PIH Health rating

8.5

Company rating: 8.5 out of 10

Based on 64 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

18th of 876 rated healthcare providers


Job description

PIH Health is a nonprofit, regional healthcare network that serves approximately 3 million residents in the Los Angeles County, Orange County and San Gabriel Valley region. The fully integrated network is comprised of PIH Health Downey Hospital, PIH Health Good Samaritan Hospital, PIH Health Whittier Hospital, 37 outpatient medical office buildings, a multispecialty medical (physician) group, home healthcare services and hospice care, as well as heart, cancer, digestive health, orthopedics, women’s health, urgent care and emergency services. The organization is nationally recognized for excellence in patient care and patient experience, and the College of Healthcare Information Management Executives (CHIME) has identified PIH Health as one of the nation’s top hospital systems for best practices, cutting-edge advancements, quality of care and healthcare technology. For more information, visit PIHHealth.org or follow us on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram

The Exercise Specialist develops, implements and supervises exercise training guidelines and sessions for cardiac rehabilitation patients. Administers fitness assessments on an outpatient population and provides exercise expertise as needed.


Required Skills
  • Training in ECG and arrhythmia recognition.
  • Ability to perform the following test:
    • Graded exercise tests (GXT) using a variety of modes and protocols.
    • GXT’s utilizing metabolic cart for expired gas analysis.
    • Ability to evaluate and interpret expired gas values
    • All standardpulmonary function tests 9full flow loop, lung volumes, etc.).
    • Body composition (skinfold method).
    • A variety of upper and lower extremity flexibility and strength tests.
  • Familiarity with invasive and non-invasive cardiodiagnostic tests and procedures for the purpose of developing individualized exercise guidelines for healthy and high risk individualsand cardiac patients.
  • Written and oral communication skills.
  • Successfully passing safety, cultural sensitivity and blood pathogen classes.

Required Experience

Required:

  • Masters Degree in Exercise Science or related field.
  • Basic Life Support Certification from the American Heart Association         
  • Extensive clinical experience in the management of post operative and post myocardial infarction patients.
  • Administrative experience in cardiac rehabilitation.
  • Thorough knowledge of prevention, intervention and rehabilitationprograms regarding all contributing factors; exercise, diet, stress management and risk factor modification.
  • Demonstrated experience in diagnostic exercise testing.
  • Demonstrate experience in fitness assessments involving expired gas analysis, body composition assessment (skinfolds), pulmonary function, strength, flexibility and risk factor profiles.

Preferred:

  • Certification as an Exercise Specialist or higher from the American College of Sports Medicine or equivalent.
  • ACLS certification.

Beyond the benefits that come with working for the area's leading community healthcare provider – one that also recognizes the need to ensure patient safety and comfort – you'll enjoy an extremely competitive compensation and benefits package.  We are an equal opportunity employer and seek diversity in our workforce.   EOE M/F/D/V


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About PIH Health

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

* PIH Health is a nonprofit health and wellness network serving Los Angeles and Orange Counties. Our integrated system consists of 747 beds at two acute care hospitals and a multi-specialty medical group. * Strong community reputation * 2014, 2015 Favorite Workplace * Innovative, transparent, family-like culture

Industry

Health care and social assistance

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Whittier, CA, US

Year founded

1959