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Sports Exercise Science Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

St. Ambrose University

Athletic Trainer

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site

$22.25 - $30.50/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Serve as liaison between student-athletes, sports medicine physicians, and physical/occupational ... Master's degree in athletic training, kinesiology, exercise science, or related field * One to two ...

D1 Training

Strength & Conditioning Coach

Altoona, IA · On-site

Has a bachelor's degree in Exercise Science or a related field (preferred). D1 Training is an ... by sports science. What began as training solely for the aspiring youth athlete, matured into ...

Iowa State University

Aquatics Coordinator

Ames, IA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Bachelor's degree or above in Recreation and Sport Management, Kinesiology, Exercise Science, or a related field. * Experience working in an aquatics environment, preferably in collegiate recreation ...

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How much do sports exercise science jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for sports exercise science in Iowa is $26.63, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.42 and $31.83 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 careers can you get with a degree in sports exercise science?

A degree in sports exercise science can lead to careers such as sports scientist, exercise physiologist, athletic trainer, fitness instructor, or strength and conditioning coach. These roles often require knowledge of human anatomy, physiology, and fitness assessment, and may involve working in gyms, sports teams, clinics, or research settings.

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.

How much do sports exercise scientists make?

Sports exercise scientists typically earn a median annual salary of around $50,000 to $70,000, depending on experience, education, and location. Advanced roles or those with certifications in exercise physiology or sports science can earn higher salaries, especially in research, clinical, or professional sports settings.

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 can I do with a sports exercise science degree?

A sports exercise science degree prepares individuals for careers such as sports scientist, exercise physiologist, athletic trainer, fitness instructor, or strength and conditioning coach. These roles often involve working in gyms, sports teams, rehabilitation centers, or research settings, and may require certifications like ACSM or NSCA. The degree provides knowledge of human physiology, biomechanics, and exercise programming essential for these professions.
Sports Exercise Science jobs near you
Infographic showing various Sports Exercise Science job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 21% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 76% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 20% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $55,392 per year, or $26.6 per hour.

Athletic Trainer

St. Ambrose University

Cedar Rapids, IA • On-site

$22.25 - $30.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted yesterday

St. Ambrose University rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

229th of 618 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Athletic Trainer

Mount Mercy University Campus located in Cedar Rapids, IA is seeking a dedicated and compassionate Athletic Trainer to join our Athletics Department. This position plays a vital role in supporting the health, safety, and success of our varsity and junior varsity student-athletes through injury prevention, assessment, treatment, and rehabilitation.

Responsibilities

  • Provide athletic training coverage at practices and competitions
  • Evaluate athletic injuries and recommend appropriate care or medical treatment
  • Supervise rehabilitation programs for injured student-athletes
  • Serve as liaison between student-athletes, sports medicine physicians, and physical/occupational therapists
  • Educate student-athletes on injury prevention, nutrition, and exercise
  • Ensure compliance with university and conference policies
  • Maintain current knowledge of athletic training methods and technology
  • Travel with athletic teams to national events as needed
  • Perform other duties as assigned

Qualifications

Required:

  • Licensed Athletic Trainer in the State of Iowa
  • NATA Certification
  • CPR or EMT Certification
  • Valid driver's license

Preferred:

  • Master's degree in athletic training, kinesiology, exercise science, or related field
  • One to two years of athletic training experience

Skills & Competencies

  • Strong interpersonal and communication skills
  • Ability to remain calm and act decisively in emergency situations
  • Commitment to ethical and professional standards
  • Ability to work effectively in a collaborative, team-oriented environment
  • Strong organizational and multitasking skills
Benefits:
  • Competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package including health, dental, and vision insurance
  • Retirement savings plan with employer match
  • Tuition remission benefits
  • Paid time off and holidays
  • Opportunities for professional development and training
  • A supportive and collaborative work environment
  • Access to campus amenities, cultural events, and recreational facilities

St. Ambrose University and its affiliate campuses are an inclusive, Catholic and diocesan community of learners empowering all its members to act courageously, to seek wisdom through faith and reason, to work for justice and mercy, and to lead lives of service.


How to Apply:

Interested individuals should apply online at https://Stambroseuniv.applicantlist.com by submitting a letter of application, resume, and contact information for three professional references. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled. Equal Opportunity Employer. #HEJ

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