Part‑Time Exercise Physiologist & Athletic Trainer – Remote‑Enabled Role Supporting Penn State University Fitness Center (Centre County, PA)

Welcome to Penn State University – Where Passion for Health Meets Innovative Remote Work

Penn State University is a world‑renowned research institution celebrated for its commitment to academic excellence, groundbreaking research, and a vibrant campus community that stretches across Pennsylvania and beyond. Our University Fitness Center stands at the heart of this community, fostering wellness, athletic achievement, and lifelong healthy habits for students, staff, faculty, and the surrounding public.

In response to evolving work models and a growing demand for flexible, high‑impact health professionals, we are thrilled to announce a part‑time, remote‑compatible Exercise Physiologist & Athletic Trainer position. Whether you are a current Penn State employee, a student eager to launch a career in exercise science, or an external professional seeking a dynamic, people‑focused role, this opportunity offers you a platform to influence health outcomes while enjoying the freedom of remote or hybrid work arrangements.

Join a team that values scientific rigor, personalized client care, and a collaborative spirit. If you thrive in environments that balance independence with teamwork, and you possess a steadfast dedication to helping individuals reach their physical potential, we invite you to read on and discover how you can make a lasting impact.

About the Role: Exercise Physiologist (Part‑Time, PRN) & Athletic Trainer

This position is anchored within the University Fitness Center, a state‑of‑the‑art facility that serves a diverse population ranging from elite athletes to community members seeking general wellness. As a part‑time (PRN) Exercise Physiologist and Athletic Trainer, you will be instrumental in delivering evidence‑based exercise prescriptions, overseeing safe facility operations, and providing individualized coaching that aligns with each client’s health status and fitness goals.

While the role is primarily part‑time, you will enjoy a flexible schedule that may include mornings, evenings, weekends, and occasional special‑event coverage. The position is classified as remote‑eligible, meaning you can execute many client interactions, assessments, and documentation from a home office—provided you meet all university compliance and security standards.

Why This Role Stands Out

• Blend of clinical exercise science and hands‑on athletic training.
• Opportunity to serve a renowned university community while working remotely.
• Competitive hourly compensation reflective of expertise and certifications.
• Professional development resources, including access to Penn State’s extensive research libraries and continuing‑education workshops.
• Inclusive, supportive workplace culture grounded in Penn State’s DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) commitments.

Key Responsibilities – What Your Day Might Look Like

As an Exercise Physiologist & Athletic Trainer, you will be entrusted with a broad spectrum of duties that ensure both the safety and the progressive advancement of our members. Below is a detailed breakdown of core responsibilities:

• Client Assessment & Evaluation: Conduct comprehensive functional capacity evaluations, health risk screenings, and baseline fitness testing for new and existing members.
• Individualized Exercise Prescription: Develop, implement, and adjust customized exercise programs for a variety of populations, including medically‑referred patients, athletes, and general‑public members.
• Personal Training & Coaching: Deliver one‑on‑one or small‑group personal training sessions—both in‑person at the Fitness Center and virtually via video conferencing platforms.
• Injury Prevention & Management: Apply athletic training expertise to assess, treat, and rehabilitate minor musculoskeletal injuries, coordinating with university medical staff as needed.
• Facility Oversight: Supervise the fitness environment, ensuring equipment is maintained, safety protocols are enforced, and the space remains welcoming and organized.
• Policy Enforcement & Conflict Resolution: Uphold university fitness policies, address member concerns diplomatically, and manage any conflicts that arise with professionalism and composure.
• Documentation & Reporting: Accurately record client progress, exercise plans, and any incident reports using Penn State’s secure health information system.
• Education & Outreach: Lead workshops, seminars, or webinars on topics such as health‑related fitness, nutrition basics, stress management, and active living.
• Collaboration with Interdisciplinary Teams: Partner with nutritionists, physiotherapists, sports coaches, and academic researchers to deliver holistic wellness solutions.
• Continuous Improvement: Participate in regular staff meetings, contribute ideas for program enhancements, and stay current with emerging research in exercise physiology and athletic training.

Essential Qualifications – What You Must Bring

To thrive in this role, candidates must demonstrate a solid foundation in exercise science and a proven capacity to work independently while delivering high‑quality client services.

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in Exercise Science, Kinesiology, Athletic Training, or a closely related field from an accredited institution.
• Certification: Current CPR/AED certification is mandatory. Preference is given to candidates holding a nationally recognized credential such as the Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS), Certified Exercise Physiologist (CEP), or NCCA‑accredited Athletic Trainer certification.
• Experience: Minimum of 1–2 years of experience conducting functional assessments, creating exercise prescriptions, or providing personal training services in a gym, clinical, or university setting.
• Technical Skills: Proficiency with fitness assessment tools (e.g., VO₂ max testing, body composition analysis), and familiarity with electronic health record systems or fitness management software.
• Regulatory Clearances: Ability to successfully complete the required background checks, including Pennsylvania State Police Criminal Background Check, Pennsylvania Child Abuse History Clearance, and a Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) criminal background check.
• Availability: Flexible schedule accommodating early mornings, evenings, weekends, and occasional holiday shifts.
• Communication: Exceptional verbal and written communication skills, with a talent for explaining complex health concepts in clear, actionable language.
• Professionalism: Strong ethical standards, confidentiality awareness, and the capacity to act as an ambassador for Penn State’s health and wellness mission.

Preferred Qualifications – What Will Set You Apart

• Master’s degree or advanced coursework in Exercise Physiology, Sports Medicine, or a related discipline.
• Additional certifications such as Certified Clinical Exercise Physiologist (CEP), Certified Personal Trainer (CPT), or Certified Sports Nutrition Specialist (CNS).
• Experience working within an academic or research environment, including involvement in student mentorship or health‑science projects.
• Familiarity with tele‑health platforms and remote coaching methodologies.
• Demonstrated commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion through community outreach, volunteer work, or participation in DEI initiatives.
• Fluency in a second language, enhancing service to a multilingual membership base.

Core Skills & Competencies for Success

• Analytical Thinking: Ability to interpret assessment data, identify trends, and adjust programs accordingly.
• Client‑Centric Mindset: Prioritizing individual needs, motivations, and limitations to foster sustainable behavior change.
• Leadership & Initiative: Proactively managing the fitness floor, guiding peers, and contributing to a safe, inclusive environment.
• Technology Savvy: Comfort with digital scheduling tools, virtual meeting platforms, and electronic documentation systems.
• Problem‑Solving: Quick, effective resolution of equipment issues, member concerns, or schedule conflicts.
• Time Management: Balancing multiple client sessions, administrative duties, and professional development within a part‑time framework.
• Empathy & Cultural Competence: Sensitivity to diverse backgrounds, abilities, and health perspectives.

Work Schedule, Environment & Remote Work Policy

The part‑time/PRN arrangement offers a highly adaptable schedule. Typical shifts may include:

• Early‑morning (e.g., 6:00 am – 10:00 am) sessions to accommodate student athletes.
• Evening (e.g., 4:00 pm – 8:00 pm) slots for working professionals.
• Weekend coverage (Saturday or Sunday) for special fitness events or high‑demand periods.

Remote work is approved on a case‑by‑case basis. Candidates who meet the university’s security requirements may conduct virtual assessments, design exercise plans, and hold online coaching sessions from a home office. On‑site presence is required for equipment supervision, in‑person training, and facility safety duties.

Compensation, Perks & Benefits – A Competitive Package

While specific salary figures are determined by experience, qualifications, and the number of hours scheduled, Penn State offers a compensation structure that is competitive within the higher‑education fitness sector.

Additional benefits include:

• Access to Penn State’s comprehensive health insurance options (medical, dental, vision).
• Retirement savings plans with university matching contributions.
• Generous paid time off (PTO) and holiday leave in accordance with university policies.
• Professional development funding for certifications, workshops, and conferences.
• University‑wide wellness programs, gym membership discounts, and on‑campus recreation facilities.
• Employee assistance programs (EAP) providing counseling, financial planning, and work‑life balance resources.
• Opportunities for collaborative research and publication within Penn State’s esteemed academic community.

Career Growth & Learning Opportunities

Penn State is committed to fostering an environment where employees can continuously expand their expertise and advance their careers.

• Mentorship Programs: Pairing with senior faculty or seasoned athletic trainers for skill development.
• Continuing Education: Tuition assistance for graduate-level coursework related to exercise science, sports medicine, or health education.
• Research Participation: Involvement in cutting‑edge studies on exercise interventions, performance optimization, and community health outcomes.
• Leadership Pathways: Structured pathways to move into supervisory or program‑director roles within the Fitness Center or broader university health services.
• Cross‑Departmental Collaboration: Working alongside nutrition services, counseling centers, and athletic departments to design integrated wellness initiatives.

Our Commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI)

Penn State proudly embraces a culture of inclusive excellence. We recognize that diverse perspectives enhance innovation, enrich learning, and improve service delivery. As part of this commitment, we:

• Actively recruit candidates from underrepresented groups, ensuring a broad talent pool.
• Provide ongoing DEI training for all staff members to foster respectful, culturally aware interactions.
• Maintain transparent policies that uphold equity in hiring, promotion, and compensation.
• Support employee resource groups (ERGs) that create community and advocacy opportunities.
• Continuously assess and improve workplace practices to eliminate barriers and promote accessibility.

We encourage applicants of all backgrounds to apply, confident that your unique experiences will contribute to the vibrant tapestry of our university community.

Application Process – How to Take the Next Step

Because this posting is for external visibility, please follow the steps below to submit your application:

1. Internal Candidates (Current Penn State Employees or Students): Log in to Workday and complete the internal application form. Do not submit via this external site.
2. External Candidates: Click the “Apply” button below, which will direct you to our secure external application portal. Complete the required fields, upload your résumé, certification documents, and a brief cover letter outlining your fit for the role.
3. Background Checks: Upon receiving a conditional offer, you will be guided through the Pennsylvania State Police Criminal Background Check, Pennsylvania Child Abuse History Clearance, and FBI background screening.
4. Interview Process: Qualified applicants will be invited to a virtual interview with the Fitness Center leadership team, followed by a practical assessment (e.g., mock client session) to demonstrate your technical competencies.

Closing Statement – Join Us in Shaping the Future of Campus Wellness

Are you ready to blend your expertise in exercise physiology with a passion for empowering individuals to achieve their health goals? Do you envision a career where scientific rigor meets real‑world impact, all within the dynamic environment of Penn State University? If so, we want to hear from you.

Take the next step toward a rewarding, flexible, and purpose‑driven career. Apply today and become an essential part of the team that inspires a culture of movement, resilience, and lifelong well‑being at Penn State.

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