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Sports Exercise Science Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

Exercise Physiologist

Colorado Springs, CO ยท On-site

$24.11 - $36.17/hr

Master's degree in Exercise Physiology, Exercise Science or related field. * ACLS within 6 months of hire. American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) within 12 months of hire. * BLS through the ...

Master's degree (Doctoral degree preferred) in Human Performance, Kinesiology, or Exercise Science, and/or Sport Sciences with a specialization in Sport Psychology. LICENSES/CERTIFICATIONS: * Must ...

ISSA International Sport Sciences Association * NETA - National Exercise Trainers Association * NESTA National Exercise and Sports Trainers Association * NFPT- National Federation of Personal Trainer

Apply Early

ISSA International Sport Sciences Association * NETA - National Exercise Trainers Association * NESTA National Exercise and Sports Trainers Association * NFPT- National Federation of Personal Trainer

Apply Early

Personal Trainer

Boulder, CO ยท On-site

$35K - $100K/yr

ISSA - International Sport Sciences Association * NETA - National Exercise Trainers Association * NESTA -National Exercise and Sports Trainers Association * NFPT- National Federation of Personal ...

ISSA - International Sport Sciences Association * NETA - National Exercise Trainers Association * NESTA -National Exercise and Sports Trainers Association * NFPT- National Federation of Personal ...

Personal Trainer

Fort Collins, CO ยท On-site

$12.56 - $60/hr

ISSA - International Sport Sciences Association * NETA - National Exercise Trainers Association * NESTA -National Exercise and Sports Trainers Association * NFPT- National Federation of Personal ...

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Showing results 1-20

Sports Exercise Science information

See Colorado salary details

$13

$29

$50

How much do sports exercise science jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for sports exercise science in Colorado is $29.81, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.73 and $35.62 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is sports exercise science?

Sports exercise science is the study of how physical activity, exercise, and sport affect the human body and mind. It combines knowledge from physiology, biomechanics, psychology, and nutrition to improve athletic performance, promote health, and prevent injuries. Professionals in this field may work with athletes, design fitness programs, or conduct research to understand how exercise influences physical and mental well-being. Sports exercise science plays a crucial role in optimizing training methods and supporting overall health.

What are some typical career paths and advancement opportunities in sports exercise science?

Professionals in sports exercise science often begin their careers in roles such as fitness trainers, strength and conditioning coaches, or exercise physiologists. With experience and further education, many advance to positions in sports management, athletic program direction, or specialized research roles. Opportunities also exist in clinical settings, working alongside physical therapists or sports medicine teams. The field encourages ongoing professional development, and certifications or advanced degrees can open doors to higher-level or more specialized positions.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Sports Exercise Scientist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Sports Exercise Scientist, you need a solid background in human physiology, biomechanics, and exercise prescription, typically supported by a degree in sports science or a related field. Familiarity with laboratory testing equipment, data analysis software, and certifications such as ACSM or NSCA are often required. Strong communication, analytical thinking, and the ability to motivate and educate clients or athletes are vital soft skills. These competencies ensure evidence-based program design, accurate performance assessments, and effective support for clients' health and athletic goals.

What is the difference between Sports Exercise Science vs Sports Performance Coach?

AspectSports Exercise ScienceSports Performance Coach
CredentialsDegree in Exercise Science, certifications like NSCA or ACSMCertifications in coaching, strength and conditioning, sport-specific training
Work EnvironmentClinics, universities, research labs, sports teamsTraining facilities, sports teams, gyms
Industry UsageAcademic, research, health, and sports settingsCoaching athletes, improving performance

Sports Exercise Science focuses on understanding human physiology, biomechanics, and health to improve athletic performance and recovery through research and clinical applications. In contrast, a Sports Performance Coach applies training techniques directly to athletes, emphasizing skill development and performance enhancement. While both roles require knowledge of exercise principles, Sports Exercise Science is more research and health-oriented, whereas Sports Performance Coaching is more hands-on and sport-specific.

What cities in Colorado are hiring for Sports Exercise Science jobs? Cities in Colorado with the most Sports Exercise Science job openings:
Infographic showing various Sports Exercise Science job openings in Colorado as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 57% Full Time, and 43% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $62,013 per year, or $29.8 per hour.
Exercise and Sport Sciences Affiliate Instructor

Exercise and Sport Sciences Affiliate Instructor

Metropolitan State University of Denver

Denver, CO โ€ข On-site

Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 24 days ago


Job description

Department
Human Performance & Sports
By applying to this posting, you are entering an applicant pool for affiliate faculty. Screening of applicants will take place when positions come available. The number of these temporary, part-time, non-tenure track academic positions varies from semester to semester, depending on the needs of the program. As such, not everyone in the applicant pool for this position will be contacted and/or selected to teach.
About the University
Established in 1965, Metropolitan State University (MSU Denver) was founded to serve students who were underrepresented in higher education whose life paths and experiences did not fit the traditional mold. Sixty years later, the University continues to serve over 16,000 of Colorado's extraordinary and diverse students, providing them with the foundation on which to build their unique aspirations. As the third largest public institution of higher education in Colorado, MSU Denver is a model university for today's college students.
Proud of its federal designation as a Hispanic-Serving Institution that also offers graduate programs (gHSI) and the only Seal of Excelencia certified institution in Colorado, the University serves the most diverse undergraduate student population in the state, as well as the most first-generation students. Through affordable, flexible, and holistic education, MSU Denver helps students build essential skills grounded in a multicultural and global perspective that lead to undergraduate and graduate degrees, and career and life success.
About the Department of Exercise and Sport Sciences
The Department of Exercise and Sport Sciences (ESS) offers undergraduate degrees in Exercise Science and Sport Management. Our Sport Management program is accredited by COSMA, and our Exercise Science program is accredited by CAAHEP-CoAES and recognized by the NSCA's ERP program for Strength and Conditioning. We are comprised of 12 full time faculty members, three staff members and a group of dedicated affiliate/adjunct faculty. We value and maintain a collaborative and inclusive team environment. The Department of ESS supports well equipped labs and we pride itself on outstanding teaching, quality applied research and a learn by doing philosophy.
Position Summary
The Department of Exercise and Sport Sciences at Metropolitan State University of Denver (MSU Denver) invites applications for part-time affiliate faculty teaching positions in our degree program areas of Exercise Science and Sport Management. We are seeking part-time, affiliate instructors in all content areas across the curriculum.
For more information about the Department of Exercise and Sport Sciences, please visit: https://www.msudenver.edu/exercise-sport-sciences.
Responsibilities
An affiliate faculty member's duties may include but are not limited to: teaching assigned classes in person or online by delivering course content to students, preparing course materials and lesson plans, grading student work, providing students with robust feedback in a timely manner, addressing student questions consistent with university, college/school, and department policies, and providing online or in person academic support to students as needed and appropriate for the teaching assignment; providing instruction in assigned classes consistent with the content and learning objectives of the regular course syllabus and, if required, with department course coordination policies; and complying with university-wide student evaluation of instruction policies and peer observation policies. The ability to adapt and learn new modes of instruction is highly encouraged. Candidates need to be sensitive to the educational needs of a diverse student population.
Required Qualifications
  • Successful candidates must have a minimum of a Master's degree in Exercise Science, Sport Management, or a closely related field
  • Teaching experience in the required discipline and content area

Terms of Employment
Affiliate faculty are part-time, at-will employees hired to teach on a per credit hour basis for specific classes, usually on a semester-by-semester basis. Affiliate faculty are not eligible for benefit coverage under the University's benefit program. All such teaching assignments are dependent on budget and enrollment.
Qualified candidates will be expected to teach in person/on campus upon hire.
Salary for Announcement
The final salary is based on the number of credit hours assigned at a rate determined by university policy.
Rate of pay per credit hour assignment can be between $1264 - $1482.
For more information, please view pay rates under the College of Health and Human Sciences (CHHS): Affiliate-Rates-AY-25-26
How to Apply
Candidates must apply online through MSU Denver's career site, https://www.msudenver.edu/careers. Complete applications will include the following materials:
  • Curriculum vitae
  • Cover letter
  • Copies of all unofficial transcripts
  • A list of three professional references and their contact information

Applicants will notice on the application portal there is one location (the resume/cover letter submission field) to upload all required materials. Multiple documents can be submitted into this one field; alternatively, merge all documents into one PDF and upload. Once submitted, you will not be able to edit your application.
Official transcripts will be required of the candidate selected for hire.
Closing Date
Open Until Filled
Posting Representative
Katie Lynch
Posting Representative Email
klynch24@msudenver.edu
Benefits
The University's benefits package is comprehensive and offers medical, vision and dental, free RTD pass, tuition reimbursement, as well as a life and supplemental insurance plans, retirement plans and other programs, such as access to a long-term disability (LTD) plan. Visit MSU Denver's benefits website to learn more.
For a brief overview, please see: https://www.msudenver.edu/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/MSU-Benefit-Summary.pdf.
The University will provide reasonable accommodations to applicants with disabilities throughout the employment application process. To request an accommodation pursuant to the Americans with Disabilities Act, please contact the Human Resources ADA Coordinator at totalrewards@msudenver.edu.
Background Checks
Metropolitan State University of Denver is dedicated to ensuring a safe and secure environment for our faculty, staff, students, and visitors. To Assist in achieving that goal, we conduct background checks on all finalists for positions at the University prior to employment.
Diversity Statement
Metropolitan State University of Denver is a unique, access-oriented campus community that values diversity, equity, and inclusion in all its forms. Our student population consists of nearly 58% first generation students and over 50% students of color. We are a designated Hispanic Serving Institution located in downtown Denver.
We create an equitable learning and working environment in concert with individuals who consistently demonstrate commitment to equity and inclusion. We greatly value the diverse identities and perspectives of our students, faculty, and staff and recognize that in order to achieve a just and equitable society, diversity must go beyond simple representation. It requires critical inquiry and dialogue and a commitment to action. We strive to provide a culture of belonging for all community members to achieve personal and professional success.