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Sports Exercise Science Jobs in Madison, WI (NOW HIRING)

Clinical Exercise Physiologist

Madison, WI ยท On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Master's Degree in clinical Exercise Physiology, Kinesiology, Exercise Science or related field ... American College of Sports Medicine Clinical Exercise Physiology certification (ACSM-CEP) Upon Hire ...

Clinical Exercise Physiologist

Madison, WI ยท On-site

$27.33 - $41/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Master's Degree in clinical Exercise Physiology, Kinesiology, Exercise Science or related field ... American College of Sports Medicine Clinical Exercise Physiology certification (ACSM-CEP) Upon Hire ...

New

Clinical Exercise Physiologist

Madison, WI ยท On-site

$27.33 - $41/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Master's Degree in clinical Exercise Physiology, Kinesiology, Exercise Science or related field ... American College of Sports Medicine Clinical Exercise Physiology certification (ACSM-CEP) Upon Hire ...

New

Clinical Exercise Physiologist

Madison, WI ยท On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Master's Degree in clinical Exercise Physiology, Kinesiology, Exercise Science or related field ... American College of Sports Medicine Clinical Exercise Physiology certification (ACSM-CEP) Upon Hire ...

Physiologist - $27-41 per hour

Madison, WI ยท On-site

$27 - $41/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Master's Degree in clinical Exercise Physiology, Kinesiology, Exercise Science or related field ... American College of Sports Medicine Clinical Exercise Physiology certification (ACSM-CEP) Upon Hire ...

New

Physiologist

Madison, WI ยท On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Master's Degree in clinical Exercise Physiology, Kinesiology, Exercise Science or related field ... American College of Sports Medicine Clinical Exercise Physiology certification (ACSM-CEP) Upon Hire ...

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Sports Exercise Science information

See Madison, WI salary details

$13

$28

$47

How much do sports exercise science jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for sports exercise science in Madison, WI is $28.57, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.82 and $34.13 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.

What cities near Madison, WI are hiring for Sports Exercise Science jobs?

Cities near Madison, WI with the most Sports Exercise Science job openings:

Infographic showing various Sports Exercise Science job openings in Madison, WI as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 62% Full Time, and 38% Part Time. Highlights an 87% In-person, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $59,424 per year, or $28.6 per hour.

Clinical Exercise Physiologist

UWHealth

Madison, WI โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago


Job description

Work Schedule:ย 
40 hours per week, day shift, 8:00AM - 4:30PM Monday through Friday. You will work at East Madison Hospital, Madison WI. Hours may vary based on the operational needs of the department.


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Pay:

  • Relocation assistance may be available for qualified applicants


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Be part of something remarkable

Join a program with a rich history, as part of one of the nation's original cardiac rehabilitation programs established in the 1960s.

We are seeking a Clinical Exercise Physiologist (CEP, Exercise Physiologist, Exercise Specialist, Cardiac Rehab Therapist) to:

  • Develop and coordinate individualized treatment plans that address the clinical and educational needs of cardiac patients, their families, individuals at risk for cardiovascular disease, and patients with peripheral artery disease
  • Help shape the future of outpatient cardiac rehabilitation by supporting innovative approaches that do not require electrocardiogram (ECG) monitoring during every session
  • Practice in an academic medical center that offers exposure to complex and unique patient cases
  • Assist with exercise stress testing, including both standard and nuclear imaging studies
  • Contribute to innovative patient care programs, including the 'Living Well With Atrial Fibrillation' group medical visit and an Oncology Exercise Program
  • Collaborate with and receive exceptional support from a dedicated team of medical directors, cardiologists, and advanced practice providers

At UW Health, you will have:

  • An excellent benefits package, including health and dental insurance, paid time off, retirement plans, two-week paid parental leave and adoption assistance
  • Options for a variety of schedules and shifts that offer flexibility and allow for work-life balance
  • Access to great resources through the UW Health Employee Wellbeing Department that supports your emotional, financial, and physical well-being
  • Tuition benefits eligibility - UW Health invests in your professional growth by helping pay for coursework associated with career advancement
  • The opportunity to earn a referral bonus for referring friends, former colleagues or others to apply for open, posted positions


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Qualifications

  • Master's Degree in clinical Exercise Physiology, Kinesiology, Exercise Science or related field with emphasis in cardiac rehabilitation Required

Work Experience

  • Three (3) month internship in a comprehensive cardiac rehabilitation program Required
  • One or more years of relevant clinical experience in cardiac rehabilitation Preferred

Licenses & Certifications

  • Current CPR and ACLS certification Upon Hire Required
  • American College of Sports Medicine Clinical Exercise Physiology certification (ACSM-CEP) Upon Hire Required

Our Commitment to Social Impact and Belonging

UW Health is committed to fostering a workplace that creates belonging for everyone and is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) employer. Our respect for people shines through patient care interactions and our daily work practices as we work to embrace the knowledge, unique perspectives and qualities each employee and faculty member brings to work each day. It is the policy of UW Health to provide equal opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, protected veteran or disabled status, or genetic information.


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East Madison Hospital - is UW Health's newest hospital and one of the most advanced hospitals and wellness centers in the country. Here, health care is seen as a holistic endeavor where our mission is to not only diagnose and treat you when you're sick, but also to partner with you in health and wellness.
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Job Descriptionย 


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UW Hospital and Clinics benefits