Trends in Job Satisfaction and Employment Conditions Among Sport Sciences Graduates in Spain (2019–2024): A Social Sustainability Perspective

This study analyzes, from a social sustainability perspective, the evolution of working conditions and professional satisfaction among graduates in Physical Activity and Sport Sciences (PASS) in Spain, by comparing two representative cohorts from 2019 and 2024. Using a cross-sectional design and non-probabilistic sampling, data was collected from 1,547 professionals (918 in 2019 and 629 in 2024) through the Total Job Satisfaction questionnaire, which assesses intrinsic, extrinsic, and overall satisfaction. The results reveal a significant decline in intrinsic satisfaction, particularly in key dimensions such as autonomy, recognition, and task variety. Although extrinsic satisfaction also decreased, it remained at moderate dissatisfaction levels, with salary and contract stability being the most critical factors. Regarding contractual conditions, there was an increase in temporary contracts (from 29.6% to 47.4%) and a decrease in civil servant positions (from 20% to 4.5%). Simultaneously, there was a rise in working hours exceeding 35 per week and in the highest salary brackets.